Beauty Crisis: How to Control Frizzy Hair

by Phillip Picardi at Teen Vogue

Lorraine Massey, hairstylist at curl-friendly Devachan Salon in New York (and author of the upcoming book The Curly Girl) explained that, "Frizz is hair looking to be provided with more moisture." Solving the problem, then, consists of going to the root (pun intended!) of the problem: your shower.

"Conventional shampoos dehydrate and agitate the cuticle of the hair, leaving it open and exposed," she said, "and this creates the swell once it dries because it's looking for moisture." For a good sulfate-free shampoo, she recommends Deva Curl NoPoo ($18) as a must. (We also like Macadamia Rejuvenating Shampoo, $18.)

The right products are also essential aprés shampoo, as noted by curl expert Tommy Buckett at Marie Robinson salon. "Frizzy, curly, thick hair needs extra love!" he insists. "When using products, don't be afraid to use a generous amount." Massey agrees, suggesting that "you may leave in more conditioner or not rinse the application out entirely."

The real tricks seem to come into play after the shower, since hair is most susceptible to frizz as it's drying. The frizz fighters at Ouidad recommend applying their "Climate Control ($22) from the roots to the ends of the hair, shaking hands back and forth to re-spring curls" while it's still wet.

Afterward, Massey cautions, "Do not over-squeeze out water and conditioner! To ensure your hair keeps the right amount of moisture for it to dry frizz-free, use a paper towel or an old T-shirt to dry it instead of a more abrasive towel."

"Wet hair tends to dilute product, so you will get best results when applying product to dry hair," explained Buckett. "I will be more aggressive in taming frizz and defining curls." He likes a "cocktail combo of serum and curl cream"--specifically Moroccan Oil's Intense Curl Cream, $45. (For a power-packed serum, invest in Goldwell's Curl Definition Leave-In, $5 for one).

If you're in a hurry and can't wait for hair to air-dry, the Ouidad pros approve of "blow-drying with a diffuser attachment." Still, the environment is bound to cause some frizz eventually. For that, Ouidad recommends their "Botanical Boost ($16), which is loaded with vitamins and aloe to keep hair soft, hydrated, and frizz-free. Mist on dry hair to revive hair throughout the day."

Above all, your hair requires extra hydration on a regular basis! Once a week, indulge in a moisture-rich mask to improve hair texture and shine . . . all it takes is ten minutes! We love the intensive treatment of Weleda's Rosemary Hair Oil ($14), and the luxurious butter bath of Bumble and bumble's Creme de Coco Masque ($25).

Viva la Curl!

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