taming the frizz for a smooth hairstyle |

by Sharon Jacobsen
My daughter hates her hair. Several of my friends hate their hair,
too. Why? Because it tends to frizz!
We're not talking afro style frizz here or even anything remotely
close, but when your hair's supposed to be sleek and smooth, even
the tiniest amount of frizz can be frustrating.
While I'm not going to suggest I can cure your problems, having
had my share of the frizzes I've picked up a good few tips through
the years and hopefully, by following them, you'll soon be experiencing
frizz-free days, too.
DO NOT wash you hair daily
Although you may feel that your hair will be dirty if you don't
wash it every morning while you shower, others are very unlikely
to notice. Only greasy hair will show signs of being unwashed after
one day and frizzy hair is rarely greasy. On the contrary, the fact
that you're stripping away your hair's natural oils is the most
likely cause of your frizz problem. Leave your hair for 3-4 days
between washes.
DO use conditioner
Try to find a moisturising conditioner and use it after every wash.
It's really worth paying a little extra for a good quality conditioner
and if you can't afford both a good shampoo and a good conditioner,
put the extra money into the conditioner.
DO give your hair an intensive hot oil treatment
About once every third wash (if you're sticking to the 3-4 day washing
guide), use a leave-in intensive conditioner on your hair. This
will help replace any natural oils that your hair has lost due to
the abrasive cleaners in shampoo and your hair being exposed to
the elements (sun, wind etc).
DO NOT use chemicals on your hair
Those who are unhappy with their hair have a tendency to colour
it and use all sorts of other chemicals in a vain hope of somehow
making it look better. The truth is, these chemicals are just adding
to your problem. If your hair has a tendency to frizz, keep away
from unnecessary chemical products.
DO NOT expose your hair to the elements
Sun and wind will both dry your hair causing excessive frizzing.
Try to wear a scarf or hat to cover your hair whenever you're in
the sun and especially if you know you're going to be spending a
lot of time outdoors. A scarf will also protect against wind damage.
You might also consider buying hair products that protect against
UV rays (they have a SPF - Sun Protection Factor).
DO have your hair cut regularly
Those with frizzy hair will probably be happier with a short style
but whatever you choose, it's important you visit your hairdresser
regularly as split ends will only add to the problem.
DO try to keep your hair dry
Damp air leads to frizz. Unfortunately, we can't always ensure that
our hair will stay dry but if you think it might rain, carry an
umbrella. There are some really funky looking brollies around these
days so they won't cramp your style.
DO NOT use heated styling tools
Hair dryers, straightening irons and curling tongs all damage the
hair and should be avoided as much as possible. If you MUST use
them, always use a protective product on your hair beforehand. If
you're uncertain of the kind of product you'd need, ask your hairdresser
for advice.
DO use anti-frizz products
Products such as frizz-ease aren't just another way of getting you
to part with your money. Although they'll never completely eliminate
the problem, they really do help decrease it. However, it's important
that you stick with the other tips, too. Using anti-frizz products
alone simply isn't enough.
Although I can't promise your frizz problems will disappear, these
tips should at least help you eliminate the worst of the problem.
Just remember that whatever nature's given you, it's a lot better
than if you'd not been given anything at all.
Have a happy hair day!
About the Author
Sharon Jacobsen is a full-time freelance writer living in South
Cheshire, England. Having done her fair share of successful flirting
she feels she's in a position to share a few tips about batting
eyelids and the likes.
To contact Sharon or to learn more about her work, please visit
her website at
www.sharon-jacobsen.co.uk
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