Does your hair get all messed up the moment you get out of your blanket on a cold winter morning? This happens due to static hair, which is when your hair comes into contact with a woolen sweater or blanket. In other words, your hair picks up an electric charge due to a decrease in moisture levels and dry air. It causes your hair to repel one another. Your strands may even cling to your clothes or your skin, and even stand – which no one is a fan of! So, if you are wondering how to get rid of static hair, we’ve you covered.
What causes static hair?
Static hair in winter is primarily caused by a lack of humidity. Cold air tends to be dry and strip hair of its natural moisture. This dryness increases the likelihood of friction between hair strands, leading to the buildup of static electricity. Additionally, factors such as frequent use of heating tools, poor hair care products, and wearing certain fabrics can exacerbate the issue. We spoke to a certified dermatologist, Dr Rinky Kapoor, who said, “It’s essential to focus on maintaining hair hydration, using appropriate products, and minimising factors that contribute to dryness and friction to combat static and frizzy hair.”
How to get rid of static hair?
Here are 12 tips to remove static from your hair and make it more manageable:
1. Use a dryer sheet
One unconventional yet effective method is to rub your hair with a dryer sheet, also known as an anti-frizz sheet. These sheets work wonders in reducing static and frizz, thanks to their ability to neutralise electric charges. Gently run a sheet over your hair to calm your static strands.
2. Nourish with hair oil
Static hair is often a result of lack of nourishment. To combat this, oil your hair more often. Hair oiling benefits include not only adding shine but also helping to lock in moisture, minimising the conditions that lead to static.
3. Use a hydrating shampoo
In your anti-static hair routine, add a hydrating shampoo. Look for products that focus on nourishing your hair rather than stripping away natural oils. Dr Kapoor says, “Shampoos rich in amino acids provide deep nourishment to your hair, reducing frizz and dryness.“
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4. Never skip conditioner
Never underestimate the goddess of a conditioner. Use a leave-in conditioner to provide extra hydration and protection against static. Focus on the tips of your hair to prevent them from becoming dry and prone to static cling.
5. Indulge in a moisturising hair mask
Dr Kapoor says, “Apart from using a hydrating shampoo and conditioner, provide your hair with some extra protection with a hydrating hair mask such as coconut or avocado.” You can use a hair mask twice a week to replenish lost moisture and keep static at bay. Choose a mask with ingredients like argan oil or shea butter for maximum effectiveness.
6. Always use clean hair tools
Always use a clean hairbrush and steer clear of plastic combs, as these can contribute to static buildup. Dr Kapoor says, “Switch to a metal or wood comb and be gentle with your hair.” Plus, regularly clean your hair tools to remove any product residue or oils that might be exacerbating the issue.
7. Use a pillow with cotton cover
Swap your regular pillowcase with a cotton cover. Cotton is less likely to cause friction, reducing the chances of static electricity building up as you toss and turn during the night. Not just in winter, but using a cotton cover for a pillow is the right hair care choice in the summer season as well.
8. Say no to heat styling
During the winter season, cold air can cause your hair to get frizzy. This problem can get worse if you use hair styling machines because excessive heat can contribute to dryness, making your hair more susceptible to static. So, give it a break from heat-styling tools.
9. Don’t overwash your hair
Avoid overwashing your hair, as frequent washing can strip away your scalp of its natural oils. Additionally, avoid using warm water, as hot water can contribute to dryness. Opt for lukewarm or cool water instead.
Also read: Winter hair care: 7 natural ways to get rid of dry scalp
10. Use a microfiber towel or t-shirt for wet hair
The same towel you use to dry your body should not be used to dry your hair. Dr Kapoor suggests, “Use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to dry your wet hair, and don’t rub aggressively. These materials are gentle on your locks, and helps reduce friction and minimising the risk of static.”
11. Beware of drying ingredients
Check the ingredients in your hair care products and steer clear of those that contribute to dryness. Ingredients like alcohol and sulfates can strip away moisture and natural oils, making your hair more susceptible to static and breakage. Choose products with hydrating ingredients instead.
12. Introduce a humidifier
Since dry and cold hair is the main cause of static hair, use a humidifier. It adds moisture to the air and helps prevent static buildup, benefiting not only your hair but also your skin. Place a humidifier in your bedroom or the rooms where you spend the most time.
During the winter season, wearing hats, scarves, or woolly caps may also dry your hair and make it flat. Dr Kapoor advises, “Change the hair part to the opposite side when you remove the headgear. This will reduce the static and also add volume to the hair.”
With these simple tips, you can easily manage static hair!
