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There's nothing quite as frustrating as spending time styling your hair, only for it to be overtaken by static. Flyaways, strands that refuse to stay in place, and hair that seems to have a mind of its own are all tell-tale signs of static electricity at work. In this blog Chloe Whittle, Senior Digital and In-Salon Educator, shares her top tips.
What causes static hair?
Static hair occurs when your hair builds up an electrical charge. This usually happens when strands rub against fabric, poor-quality hairbrushes, hats or even each other, causing electrons to transfer between surfaces. As each strand develops the same electrical charge, they begin to repel one another, creating those familiar flyaways. Static is most common during the colder months when humidity levels are lower, but it can occur at any time if your hair lacks moisture.
Why is dry hair more prone to static?
Healthy hair contains moisture and natural oils, which help to conduct electricity, allowing charges to travel and disperse much more easily. Dry or damaged hair struggles to do this, meaning static builds up more. Factors like heat styling, chemical treatments, overwashing and environmental factors can all remove moisture from your hair, leaving static more likely.
How do you reduce static hair?
The key to reducing static hair is to minimise friction while keeping your strands hydrated, conditioned and protected. Read on for our top tips:
1. Stop using your plastic hairbrush
Plastic doesn’t conduct electricity, so electrons are pulled off your hair and then left to repel your strands, creating static. Look for a brush with ionic nylon bristles that naturally discharge any electrons, preventing any static build-up. Our HERØ Paddle Brush is the ideal solution, smoothing strands and taming flyaways with its nylon bristles.
Video Credit: Instagram @hairbyhollymilnes
2. Use a nourishing shampoo
Hydration is one of the best ways to fight against static. Choose a shampoo and conditioner designed to replenish moisture rather than leaving the lengths feeling stripped. Look for moisturising ingredients and oils such as argan, avocado and jojoba to help smooth frizz and restore moisture to dry strands. We’d recommend our HYDRATE Shampoo & Conditioner for hair that needs an extra moisture boost.
3. Don’t overwash your hair
Overwashing can strip the scalp of its natural oils and contribute to dryness, while washing too infrequently can lead to product build-up. We would generally recommend washing two to three times per week, although the ideal routine will depend on your individual hair type and lifestyle. Read our guide for our tailored advice: How Often Should You Wash Your Hair? A Guide to Smart Shampooing
4. Try an ionic hair dryer
Ionic hair dryers emit negative ions that break water into smaller molecules, allowing the hair to dry faster and more gently. Hair dryers like our HERØ Ionic Technology Hair Dryer use negative ions to help smooth and seal the hair cuticle, minimise static and leave hair looking softer and shinier.
5. Protect hair before heat styling
Frequent use of straighteners, curling wands and hair dryers can leave hair dehydrated, making static more noticeable. Using a quality heat protectant helps shield the hair from excessive temperatures whilst maintaining softness and shine. We’d recommend using GUARD Heat Protection through the hair before using heated styling tools. Spray from root to tip and brush it through to distribute the product evenly.
6. Use a hair mask
Introduce a nourishing hair mask into your routine to give dry lengths and ends an extra boost of moisture, helping hair feel softer, smoother and easier to manage. Our HYDRATE Hair Mask is ideal for giving thirsty strands some extra attention. Apply through the mid-lengths and ends after shampooing and allow the formula time to work before rinsing thoroughly.
7. Consider leave-in conditioner
Your hair’s hydration doesn’t have to stop when you step out of the shower. A leave-in conditioner can provide an additional layer of moisture while helping to smooth the cuticle, detangle strands and keep flyaways under control. Apply HYDRATE Leave-In Conditioning Spray to damp hair, concentrating on the mid-lengths and ends before styling.
Video Credit: Instagram @hairextensionsbybecci
8. Finish with hair oil
For stubborn flyaways, a small amount of hair oil can make an instant difference. Oils help smooth the surface of the hair and add shine while reducing the dry, fluffy appearance often associated with static. Warm a small amount of VELVET Nourishing Hair Oil between your palms before gently smoothing it through the mid-lengths and ends. Start with a small amount and build up if needed to achieve a glossy finish without weighing your hair down. This is also the secret to stopping static hair instantly when static strikes.
Video Credit: Instagram @scarletts_hairstudio
If dryness is behind your static strands, discover more advice in our guide: How to Hydrate your Hair: 10 Tips From our Experts
Static hair might be frustrating, but a more nourishing routine can help keep flyaways under control. By reducing friction, protecting your hair from excessive heat and replenishing lost moisture, you can keep your strands looking beautifully smooth, glossy and polished throughout the year. Explore our tailored solutions: Dry Hair Products
