Hot, hazy, and humid weather can wreak havoc on both hair and makeup, but the best anti-frizz products can keep frizz at bay even during a heatwave. While often associated with summer, frizz can occur at any time, particularly if your hair is damaged, curly, or prone to dryness, all of which can lead to the telltale halo around your head.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to frizz. “Just like skincare, the right regimen is totally unique to every individual,” says Oribe global artist. The ideal product depends heavily on your hair type and routine. For example, someone with curls and a wash-n-go style needs a different frizz-control formula than someone who gets regular blowouts.
With that in mind, the best anti-frizz products offer something for everyone. Some popular options include:
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John Frieda Frizz-Ease Dream Curls Daily Styling Spray
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Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray
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Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo
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Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum
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Redken Frizz Dismiss Smooth Force Leave-In Conditioner Spray
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Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry Perfection & Heat Protectant Crème
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Moroccanoil Smoothing Lotion
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Olaplex No.6 Bond Smoother
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Kérastase Sérum Filler Fondamental Repairing Anti-Frizz Serum
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Adwoa Beauty Blue Tansy Reparative Mask
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SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Mousse
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Oribe Priming Lotion Leave-In Conditioning Detangler
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Reverie Milk Anti-Frizz Leave-In Nourishing Treatment
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Ouai Matte Pomade
Frizz occurs when the hair cuticle lifts up. “It’s the outermost layer of a hair strand, and hair cuticles are like shingles on a roof or scales on a fish; they are little plates that overlap each other,” says Livermore. “If the cuticles are undamaged, smooth, and flush with the hair strand, the hair will be shiny and frizz-free.”
Some hair types are naturally frizzy, such as curls, coils, and waves, as these tend to be dry. And, “because of its thickness and larger diameter, coarse hair textures are also prone to dryness and frizz,” says Nast. This is also the case with gray hair, which has more layers of cuticle than pigmented hair. Finally, frizz can also be caused by damage from aggressive styling or chemical processes like color treatments.
Anything that smooths the hair cuticle can help control frizz. Silicones are often considered among the best ingredients for this purpose, as “they lubricate the hair, smooth the cuticle down, and seal it closed,” says Livermore. Certain hairstyles also lend themselves to frizz control. “You can cut down on frizz by blow drying and/or flat ironing your hair,” Nast says. “This will help to close the hair cuticle, protecting it from absorbing moisture.” However, always use a heat protectant beforehand, as damage from heat styling will only lead to more frizz over time. Extending the time between washes can also be beneficial. “Even can slightly open and swell the cuticle,” says Livermore. “That’s why we use a conditioner afterwards—to close it back down and smooth it.” He also recommends rinsing with cold water, which can temporarily seal the cuticle.
Silicones, such as dimethicone, are a good starting point. However, you might want to consider a silicone-free formula, especially if your hair is wavy or curly. “Because some silicones aren’t water-soluble and can build up on the hair, many people with curly textures prefer silicone-free products,” says Livermore. Since washing hair can remove moisture, those with curls often wash less frequently, which can lead to more silicone buildup. Both Nast and Livermore recommend seeking out nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, argan oil, and jojoba oil. “These have a rich moisturizing ability that usually helps tame and smooth big, frizzy hair down,” Livermore says. Nast also suggests hydrolyzed keratin, especially for hair that has been damaged by heat or chemicals. It not only helps repair but also smooths the cuticles.
Ultimately, the best way to address frizz is to prevent it in the first place. “Always use a heat protectant, make sure you are not over-shampooing, add a deep conditioner to your weekly routine, and get regular trims,” says Nast.
