Dry hair becomes noticeable, especially with the onset of colder seasons. Many people then rush to use masks and oils, without achieving satisfactory results. What if the solution was simply to understand why hair becomes dry in the first place?
The real causes of dry hair
According to Claude Bouillon, a researcher at the Charles-Zviak Research Centre, several external factors can have an aggressive effect on hair: “Hair is subjected to multiple aggressions: environmental factors—sun, wind, sea, chlorinated pool water—combined with repeated brushing, hot air drying and heated styling tools (200°C), or the combination of excessive or unsuitable treatments, damage the hair fiber, alter its surface, weaken it, and leave hair feeling rough, split, dull, and difficult to detangle and style” (2022). In other words, the dry appearance of hair is merely a symptom of a fiber damaged by environmental factors, heated styling tools, or chemical treatments. Bleached hair is particularly affected. Bleaching alters the surfaces of the hair, to the point where "it is drier to the touch, more porous, more sensitive to humidity, more difficult to dry [...]" (Bouillon, 2022).
Reduce the effects according to the causal factor
Based on the categories proposed by Bouillon, we can better determine the causes in order to better control the "symptom".
1. When it comes to environmental factors, we believe that reducing exposure to these often aggressive environments is advantageous.
2. For heated tools, a similar approach remains an effective possibility: reduce their use as much as possible.
3. However, chemically treated hair absolutely must be repaired using specific molecules, since coloring, bleaching, or straightening alters the cuticles, particularly due to the alkaline pH which, over time, transforms the hair length. In this regard, cosmetic products offer an effective way to reverse this effect.
(Cosmetic products can also be used to reduce the effects caused by environmental factors and styling tools; but today we will focus on recommendations for colored or bleached hair.)
Which products should I choose?
Many brands fund research and development of products—shampoos, conditioners, leave-in treatments, masks, heat protectants, creams, oils, etc.—to control the effects of chemical treatments. In our case, we want to focus on two of them: Pureology and Oribe, lines we recommend not only for the effectiveness of their formulas but also for their forward-thinking values: respect for animals, the environment, and so on.
At Oribe, two ranges prove interesting for controlling dry, chemically treated hair. The first, Beautiful Color, with the slogan "for anyone with colored hair," is formulated using bioflavonoids and baobab extract, ingredients that strengthen damaged hair; the second, Moisture and Control, initially intended for curly hair, provides deep hydration thanks to amino acids and a microemulsion smoothing system.
From Pureology's perspective, products from the Hydrate or Hydrate Sheer lines are considered wise choices, due to their precise ingredients that allow for deep hydration.
Finally, we've added a section to the online store where other products are recommended (considering all contributing factors). We think it might be worth taking a look!
Final word
Dry hair isn't inevitable. When you understand its needs, it's easier to adjust your routine: less exposure to harsh environmental factors, less heat, and targeted, well-considered treatments. These solutions can help you regain your hair's suppleness, shine, and vitality.
And if you are hesitating between several ranges or products, come and see us: we can assess the condition of your hair lengths together and advise you on the most suitable formula.
Article written by Euniden Urias
Bibliographical references:
Bouillon, C. (2022). Hair hygiene and cosmetics; aesthetic techniques. Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénérologie (2)1, 7-19. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fander.2021.03.004.
