We Asked the Experts Exactly How to Transform Your Dry, Rough Hair
Main Image – GalinaZhigalova/Adobe
So you think you might have dry hair but you’re not sure how to care for it. Well, you’ve come to the right place.
Whether you’ve been trying to inject some moisture into it to no avail or you need a reminder of the best routine for dry hair, we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to get it back on track.
With expert comments from Tiffany Rose, CEO and Founder at Hollywood Hair Bar, Dr Chaudhry M.B.B.S. of Scandinavian Biolabs and Dr Ross Kopelman, hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration, consider dry locks well and truly cared for.
How to know if you’ve got dry hair
Rose says you can feel it for yourself. “Feeling your hair is the easiest way to determine the texture. If it feels rough and brittle, you may have dry hair,” she explains.
“Another great way to tell is by conducting an elasticity test. To do this, take one strand of your wet hair and pull gently on the end. If it stretches and does not go back to its normal length, it is safe to say you have dry hair.”
Image – Alena/Adobe
The best routine for dry hair
“A comprehensive dry hair routine should consist of several key components,” explains Dr Chaudhry. “Start with gentle cleansing using a sulphate-free shampoo to avoid stripping natural oils. Follow this with deep conditioning after each wash to replenish moisture.”
Then, after you’ve washed, “apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to seal in hydration. Incorporate weekly deep conditioning treatments for intensive moisture,” he explains.
How to shop for your shampoo and conditioner
This may come as no surprise to you, but hydration is key for taking care of dry hair, particularly when it comes to cleansing. “A moisturizing, hydrating set of shampoo and conditioner is crucial for those with dry and brittle hair,” Rose advises.
But this advice comes with a warning. “Always check the ingredient label of your products before purchasing. You never know what will be branded as “hydrating” but not include the most important ingredients!”
Ok, so what are they? “A few key ingredients to keep an eye out for when shopping for great products include shea butter, manuka honey, almond oil and rosemary.” Dr Kopelman also recommends glycerin “to retain moisture and restore shine.”
And things to avoid? “Anything that contains phthalates, dyes, artificial fragrance, parabens and sulphates,” says Rose.
Try Dr Organic Manuka Honey Shampoo (£5.61/$8.17) which is gentle whilst also being strengthening and nourishing.
The best hydrators for dry hair
- Oils and serums. “The consistent use of hair oils and serums are great for dry hair as they keep it not only hydrated but also looking smooth and glossy,” Rose explains. These are good for a quick fix too, making hair look more glossy and healthy.
Try Mizani 25 Miracle Nourishing Oil (£9.99/$16.95) which helps dry ends look healthy and shiny.
- Hair masks. “These should be applied every two weeks for those with normal hair, so if your hair is dry, I would recommend applying one more often,” Rose continues. “Once a week or even once every 3-4 days would be beneficial, depending on how dry the hair is.”
And Rose warns not to be fooled when shopping for a hair mask. “Make sure to look for things that are hydrating to the hair, and not just masks that promise to provide shine.”
“Look for ingredients like honey, avocado, or coconut oil for intense moisture and repair,” Dr Kopelman says. Overnight masks are also beneficial from time to time. “These provide extended hydration, helping to repair and nourish hair deeply,” he adds.
Try Percy & Reed I Need A Hero! Wonder Overnight Recovery Mask (£12) which is sulphate-free and works to repair dry and damaged hair while you sleep. It smells great too.
- Deep conditioners. “Deep conditioning is one of the most important parts of a hair care routine, especially if you have dry hair,” says Rose. “Deep conditioners are also powerful in promoting length retention, which is something that people with dry hair struggle with.” So how do you shop for a deep conditioner? “A few key ingredients to look out for include a variety of oils, including castor oil, olive oil and coconut oil.”
Try Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Moisture Boost Protein Pack (£3) with is packed with coconut oil for intense conditioning.
Image – Bratco/Stocksy
5 extra things that can help dry hair
1. Do a pre-cleanse: “This can remove buildup, allowing your conditioner to penetrate better,” explains Dr Kopelman.
2. Avoid over-brushing. “This can lead to breakage,” he warns. “Don’t tie your hair too tightly either and use silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction.”
3. Don’t overheat: “Heat styling is a major factor in dry hair,” says Rose. “If you are using heat on your hair frequently, remember to use a heat protectant on your hair and follow the tips listed above for deep conditioning.”
4. Consider taking vitamins: “Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, E, and biotin, all of which contribute to hair health,” advises Dr Chaudhry. “Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also important.”
5. Re-think your lifestyle: “Be mindful of your diet; include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and E,” recommends Dr Kopelman. “And protect your hair from environmental factors like sun and wind.”
The best dry hair cover-ups
Looking for a quick fix? “Hair oils or serums can add instant shine and reduce frizz, giving the appearance of healthier hair,” explains Dr Chaudhry.
“Dry oils in spray form provide lightweight moisture and shine without weighing the hair down. And heat-activated smoothing creams can temporarily seal the cuticles for a smoother look.”
But remember, it’s the long-term fixes that count. “While these products can improve the appearance of dry hair temporarily, it’s important to remember that consistent, long-term care is key for genuinely healthy hair.
Image – GalinaZhigalova/Adobe
The takeaway
With so many solutions available, having dry hair is totally fixable. Clearly, caring for it starts with hydration but remember to always read the label, look for the right ingredients and don’t just go for products that say ‘shine’ as this might not give dry hair enough moisture.
Switch up your routine to align with Dr Chaudhry’s advice and think about the extra little changes you can make too. For example, lifestyle choices, vitamin intake, heat styling frequency and how often you brush your hair. And finally, if you’re having a bad hair day, use one of Dr Chaudhry’s quick fix tips for when you want to hide dry hair on the spot.
Meet the experts
Tiffany Rose is the CEO and Founder of Hollywood Hair Bar
Dr. Chaudhry M.B.B.S. of Scandinavian Biolabs is a UK board-certified dermatologist. He’s also been featured on Insider, Glam, Woman & Home, MedicalNewsToday, MSN, Giddy, and more.
Dr Ross Kopelman is a hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration.
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