Above: Sheetal Rawal. Scientist (human genetics) & Founder of Apsara Skin Care.
Dry, Frizzy Hair? The Real Culprits Might Be Hiding in Plain Sight. Learn an easy & effective home remedy for shiny, smooth & healthy hair.
If you’re dealing with dry frizzy hair, your shampoo could be part of the problem—and you may not even realize it. Many people assume that dryness and frizz come from weather, styling tools, or hair type. But often, the root cause of dry frizzy hair lies in the ingredients used every time you wash your hair.
Many shampoos are designed to create a rich lather and have a long shelf life, but some of the ingredients used to achieve these effects can actually contribute to dry frizzy hair over time.
Hello, my name is Sheetal. I am a scientist in human genetics and the founder formulator at Apsara Skin Care. I’ve spent years studying how ingredients interact with the body, and what we apply to our skin and scalp consistently matters more than most people realize.
Below are two commonly used ingredients that may be contributing to dry frizzy hair and overall hair damage.
1. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, often listed as SLS on shampoo labels, is a widely used cleansing agent. It is responsible for creating the foamy lather that many people associate with clean hair. However, SLS is a strong detergent.
While it removes dirt and buildup effectively, it can also strip away the natural oils that protect your scalp and hair. These oils are essential for maintaining softness, smoothness, and shine. When they are removed repeatedly, the result is often dry frizzy hair.
Over time, this dryness weakens the hair shaft, making it more prone to breakage. This breakage can cause hair to appear thinner and less healthy. If you are struggling with dry frizzy hair, SLS could be a key contributor.
Hair Oil Home remedy for dryness and frizz:
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon almond oil
1 tablespoon coconut oil
10–12 drops castor oil
Instructions
1. Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
2. Apply the mixture to your scalp and along your hair strands.
3. Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips for 10 minutes.
3. Leave the oil blend on your hair for 2–3 hours.
4. Rinse off with warm water.
5. Wash with your usual shampoo and conditioner.
6. Do this 1–2 times per week.
2. Parabens
Parabens are preservatives used in shampoos to extend shelf life and prevent microbial growth. While they serve a functional purpose, they can disrupt the natural balance of the scalp.
When the scalp is imbalanced, it can lead to dryness, irritation, and increased frizz. This imbalance is another factor that can worsen dry frizzy hair. In some cases, it may also contribute to increased hair fall.
Parabens have also been studied for their potential to mimic estrogen in the body, raising concerns about hormone disruption. While research is ongoing, many people choose to avoid parabens as a precaution, especially if they are already dealing with dry frizzy hair.
Final Thought
Your shampoo is not just a cleansing product—it is something you use consistently, and its ingredients can have long-term effects on your hair and scalp. If you are experiencing dry frizzy hair, it may be time to look beyond surface-level fixes and examine what’s in your shampoo.
The next time you pick up a bottle, turn it around and read the label. Understanding what you are using is a simple but powerful step toward healthier, smoother, and more manageable hair.
