When your hair resembles straw, it’s a sign that something is off. Dry, brittle hair can result from various factors, from styling habits to environmental damage. Here are 14 reasons why your hair might look like straw and what you can do to restore its softness and shine.
1. Overwashing Your Hair
You might think that giving your hair a good wash daily keeps it clean and fresh, but the opposite is true. Washing your hair too often strips it of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. You should only wash your hair 2-3 times a week and always use sulfate-free shampoo to help maintain your hair’s natural moisture.
2. Using Harsh Shampoos
Shampoos with sulfates, silicones, and other harsh chemicals can dry out your hair rather than leave it looking shiny and fresh. These harsh chemicals can also leave your hair greasy, making it look like straw. No one wants greasy, straw-like hair, so switch to a moisturizing or sulfate-free shampoo to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
3. Excessive Heat Styling
Whether your hair is prone to frizz or you just like the look of sleek, styled hair, too much heat is actually doing more harm than good. Regular use of flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can cause heat damage, leading to straw-like hair. Always use a heat protectant spray before styling, and try to limit heat styling to a few times a week if you want luscious locks.
4. Lack of Conditioning
Despite what some people might say, you should never skip conditioner. Skipping conditioner or not using a deep conditioner regularly can leave your hair dry and fragile. Conditioner moisturizes the hair shaft and gives your hair a healthy look. Incorporate a weekly deep conditioning treatment to replenish moisture and restore softness to your strands.
5. Too Much Sun Exposure
Believe it or not, your hair can suffer from too much sun exposure, just like your skin. UV rays are so powerful that they can weaken and dry out your hair, making it feel like straw. You should wear a hat when in the sun and use hair products with UV protection to protect your scalp and hair.
6. Hard Water Damage
If you’ve ever heard the terms ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ water but never knew what they meant, you might be surprised to learn that it can mess with your hair. Water with high mineral content, or ‘hard water,’ can make your hair dry and straw-like. Installing a water softener or using a chelating shampoo can help remove mineral buildup and restore the softness of your hair.
7. Chemical Treatments
Whether you’re covering your grays or getting a dose of highlights, going to the salon is a luxurious experience that could cause your hair to become damaged and straw-like. Frequent coloring, bleaching, or perming can weaken your hair’s structure and create a straw-like texture. For a healthy head of hair, try to space out coloring appointments or switch to a kinder hair dye.
8. Overbrushing Your Hair
You might think that brushing your hair is a good thing, and while it is for the most part, it can also cause damage. Brushing your hair too often, especially when it’s wet, can cause breakage and damage. When your hair is wet, swap a hairbrush for a wide-tooth comb, and be gentle when detangling to prevent your hair from becoming brittle.
9. Low Humidity Levels
Just like the weather can affect your skin, it can wreak havoc on your hair, too. Dry air, particularly in the winter or in air-conditioned environments, can suck the moisture out of your hair, leaving it dry and straw-like. Use a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air and nourish your hair with moisture-rich products to restore hydration.
10. Poor Diet
Your diet doesn’t just play a big role in your overall health; it plays a major role in your hair’s health, too. A lack of essential nutrients, particularly vitamins and minerals like omega-3 fatty acids and biotin, can show on your hair by making it dull and lifeless. Ensure your diet is balanced, and consider taking hair supplements if you want shiny locks.
11. Not Trimming Regularly
You might think that avoiding the hairdresser is a great way to grow out your hair, but neglecting haircuts does more harm than good. Most of us will develop split ends and damaged tips over time, and if left untouched, it can make your hair look dry and straw-like. Regular trims every 6-8 weeks can help remove damaged ends and keep your hair looking healthy and smooth.
12. Excessive Use of Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is a lifesaver; whether you don’t have time for a wash and blow dry or you’re on the go, dry shampoo is great for extending the life of your style. However, using it too often can cause product buildup, making your hair dry and stiff. Limit its use, and make sure to wash your hair thoroughly to remove any residue.
13. Stress and Hormonal Changes
Stress isn’t just bad for our mental health, it’s bad for our overall health too. Stress and hormonal changes can affect your hair’s texture and health, leading to dryness and breakage. It can also cause grays if you’re suffering from chronic stress. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and ensuring hormonal balance can help improve the condition of your hair.
14. Lack of Hydration
Neglecting to get your water intake doesn’t just make your skin dry, it makes your hair dry, too. Moisture and hydration is important to having plump skin and shiny hair. Staying well-hydrated is crucial for maintaining healthy, shiny hair. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your hair moisturized from the inside out.