Although it may seem like the key to strong, shiny, and ultra-smooth hair is a well-kept secret, that is actually not the case. In fact, this almost universal desire is much easier to achieve than you think, because the best method for moisturizing dry hair — and thus getting hair worthy of a shampoo commercial — comes down to, quite simply, moisturizing.
To understand the causes of dry hair and, of course, how to remedy it, we consulted experts: celebrity hairstylist Ashley Gomila, star hairstylist and Living Proof brand stylist DJ Quintero, as well as IGK co-founder Aaron Grenia. Scroll down to discover their techniques and tips on how to moisturize dry hair.
What Causes Dry Hair?
Although dry hair can be caused by various factors, every expert pointed to climate and environment as two major reasons that can cause dryness. It is essential to take into account your hair habits, such as treatments — think excessive chemical treatments, perms, relaxing treatments, and coloring services — as well as the use of heat. All of these elements can lead to dull and dry hair.
Moisturizing vs. Hydrating Hair
Although they are often used interchangeably, moisturizing and hydrating hair are not the same thing. “Moisturizing means adding moisture to the hair, while hydrating means adding water to the hair,” explains Gomila.
Moisturizing products, such as hair oils and creams, help retain moisture in order to prevent strands from drying out. Hydrating products, such as leave-in conditioners and sprays, add water to the hair and balance the hair’s natural moisture levels, she explains.
One way to tell the difference? Moisturizing products are those you are most likely to use in your daily hair routine, according to Quintero. Hydrating products, on the other hand, are treatments you do when your hair is particularly dry.
“Moisturizing and hydrating are both essential for maintaining healthy hair,” says Gomila. “It is essential to find the right balance between the two and to choose products suited to the specific needs of your hair.”
How to Moisturize Hair
First of all, Grenia recommends tailoring care to your hair type and texture, as each hair type has different moisturizing needs. “Some hair types and textures lose moisture more easily than others, and therefore need to incorporate moisturizing products into their routine more frequently,” he explains.
For most people, the key to moisturizing hair is using the right ingredients. Look for emollient butters and oils like shea butter, jojoba oil, and coconut oil, or natural humectants such as glycerin, advises Gomila. For daily nourishment, consider misting Living Proof’s Restore Perfecting Spray before brushing and styling your hair to help treat damage and seal in moisture.
For natural curls, kinky hair, and twists, which are more prone to dryness, Grenia recommends a product like IGK Good Spin Flexible Curl Defining Gelée to provide moisturizing, definition, and frizz control for 72 hours.
Other things you can do to keep your hair moisturized include limiting the use of hot tools. For natural hair in particular, Gomila recommends styling it in protective styles. “These hairstyles are an excellent way to style your hair without needing to apply heat,” she says.
Ultimately, if you are looking to moisturize dry hair, it is not as difficult as it seems. All you need are the right products and small changes in your hair routine to get hair in great shape.
