How to Keep Your Hair Frizz-Free on Humid Days

Opt for a shampoo specifically formulated to combat frizz and puffiness. Shampoos are tailored to different hair needs. You might find certain brands proudly advertising their ability to tame frizz right on the bottle. Alternatively, keep an eye out for terms like 'moisturizing,' 'smoothing,' or 'hydrating' when selecting your favorite brand.

• Moisturizing shampoos replenish your hair's moisture levels.

Opt for the appropriate conditioner. Whether it's a regular one or a leave-in, the key is in the ingredients. Look for conditioners containing amino silicones and cationic surfactants, as these combat the main culprits of puffiness: hair shaft damage and static electricity.

• Amino silicones help conditioner silicones adhere to damaged hair, offering longer-lasting conditioning.
• Cationic surfactants reduce puffiness caused by static electricity by carrying a positive charge.

Utilize a smoothing hair product. Smoothing serums provide a coating to the hair shaft, minimizing frizz much like conditioners. However, some products can be heavy and weigh down your hair. Start with a small amount until you find the right balance for your hair.

Apply a styling product. While serums are effective for smoothing hair sections, they don't provide enough hold to prevent separation. Use a lightweight gel or smoothing gel to keep your hair in place.

Experiment with a deep-treatment using olive or coconut oil. Periodic deep treatments are beneficial in controlling frizz and puffiness by maintaining hair health. Apply a generous amount of warm olive or coconut oil to your ends, then wrap your hair in plastic or a shower cap. Leave it on for 30 minutes to several hours before shampooing and conditioning as usual to remove excess oil.

• Be cautious with oil application. Focus on the ends or mid-shaft to avoid clogging pores and causing scalp breakouts.

Opt for leave-in oils for your hair. Leave-in oil treatments like Argan oil (also known as Moroccan oil) and baby oil can help manage your hair. Use a small amount, gently spread it over your palms, and apply it to your hair.

Try incorporating other oil-rich foods such as mayonnaise or avocado. Foods rich in oil like mayonnaise or mashed avocado can strengthen your hair and prevent puffiness, despite being messy to apply. Mix a tablespoon of mayo with your conditioner or mash up avocado like you're making guacamole, apply it to your hair, cover it for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water until your hair feels smooth.

Choose the right haircut. Living in a humid area calls for a haircut that suits your hair type. Long and straight cuts add weight to prevent puffiness. An angled or slightly layered cut reduces bulk, while a layered cut enhances curls but may lead to puffier hair.

Limit shampooing to every other day. Shampoo effectively cleans dirt and grime from your hair but can exacerbate puffiness by stripping away natural oils. Some people go up to a week between washes, but generally, waiting a few days produces healthier, less puffy hair.

• Personal preferences vary, but allowing a couple of days between washes is recommended for healthier, less puffy hair.

After shampooing, rinse off conditioner with cold water. While there's debate on its effectiveness, the concept is simple: cold water causes hair cuticles to contract, adding shine and controlling frizz. Some scientists question its impact on the scalp, arguing that since hair cuticles aren't living cells, they can't contract. Nonetheless, trying this method shouldn't exacerbate puffiness, so give it a go and see if it helps.

• As mentioned below, certain leave-in conditioners can also combat puffiness effectively.

Handle wet hair with care. If you struggle with flyaways and frizz, gently pat your hair dry with a towel instead of rubbing. Allow your hair to air-dry as much as possible to minimize puffiness.

• If blow-drying, use the lowest heat setting and dry your hair slowly in small sections.
• Remember to blow down the hair shaft to prevent separation or upward for volume, which can lead to more puffiness.
• Keep in mind that blow-drying can strip moisture from the hair, increasing frizz.

Avoid excessive hair combing. While it's tempting to brush your hair vigorously after showering, excessive brushing or combing causes friction, leading to heat and hair cuticle damage. This can result in puffiness or frizz. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or a paddle brush with rounded ends, and finish with a light finger combing.

Choose a hairstyle that suits your natural hair. In humid conditions, your hair tends to follow its natural tendencies. Trying to fight it will likely lead to frustration and disappointment. If you have straight hair, avoid curling it on humid days. Embrace your natural curls or waves instead of opting for a straight style.

• Consider tying your hair into a bun or ponytail and apply anti-frizz gel to tame it.
• If your hair cooperates exceptionally well, a hat or scarf can be a lifesaver.

• Keep a small bottle of hairspray nearby. Spray a bit onto a comb or brush, then gently run it through your hair when it's feeling particularly puffy.