For curly girls, frizzy hair is just a part of life. Our products promise to keep our curls frizz-free and the websites that we use give us dozens of tips to combat frizz. We’re usually more concerned about frizz through the hair shaft and at the ends of our curls, but what about frizz at the roots? It’s especially important to take note of frizzy roots in the winter, since the cold weather can be even more damaging to our hair.
Tame Frizzy Roots
Check for damage
If you’re experiencing more frizz than usual, particularly at the roots, your hair is probably damaged. Buy a shampoo specially formulated for “dry” or “damaged” hair. When you’re using the shampoo, gently massage the scalp — scrubbing at the roots will disrupt the curl pattern and cause more frizz.
Try using a gel
For type 3 girls with thicker hair, a gel can make all the difference. Gels are a little heavier making them perfect for all-day wear.
MORE: How to Apply Hair Gel
Second day hair
Take advantage of the cold weather — you can always disguise your second-day hair with a braided style, a warm hat, or a headband. The natural oils that your scalp creates are great for fighting frizzy roots.
Try a two-strand twist
Check out Wavy Beginner’s Guide: Two-Strand Twist for Volume & Curl for a great style that will help you get volume at the roots without frizz. Begin when your hair is still damp and twist the section of your hair with the most root frizz.
Avoid hairspray
Hairspray is meant to control flyaways and keep your hair in place, but the high alcohol content in most hairsprays can actually enhance frizz. Instead of using a hairspray, try Curly Hair Solutions Tweek, a hairspray in the form of a cream. It’s a great product and it doesn’t contain drying alcohol.
Don’t touch your hair!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: hands off! It’s always tempting to smooth down that one stray hair, but you’re only going to make the problem worse. Touching your hair causes friction and breaks your natural curl pattern.
If you must fix your curls, use a styling solution. Rub it between your palms and then glide your palms over the surface of your hair to smooth down frizz at your roots and elsewhere. Don’t scrunch if your hair is already dry!
MORE: Hand in Hair Syndrome Doesn’t Just Cause Frizz
What about you? How do you tame frizzy roots?