Key Takeaways
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Dry hair lacks natural sebum and moisture, making it dull, brittle and difficult to style.
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There are many causes of dry hair: environment, unsuitable hair routine, health factors or hormonal imbalances.
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An adapted hair routine with deep care, moisturizing products and protective styling can help restore hair's softness and suppleness.
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A diet rich in essential nutrients and good internal hydration reinforce overall hair health.
Dull, brittle hair that feels rough to the touch? If your hair seems constantly in need of shine and moisture, you're not alone. Repairing dry hair is a major concern for many people with textured hair.
Fortunately, with the right routine, the right products and a little patience, it's entirely possible to bring your hair back to life.
In this article, we explain why your hair is dry, how to remedy it gently and sustainably, and which treatments to adopt to restore supple and radiant hair.
Understanding Dry Hair
Hair becomes dry when its natural structure is altered, notably by insufficient production of sebum - the natural oil produced by the scalp.
The role of sebum is to lubricate the hair fiber and form a protective barrier against dehydration. In curly or frizzy hair, this distribution is more difficult due to its spiral shape, which makes it naturally drier than straight hair.
When this natural hydration is compromised, the cuticle - the hair's outer layer - lifts, allowing the water inside the fiber to escape.
The result: hair becomes dull, brittle, split ends and difficult to style. To restore healthy hair, we need to restore this moisture barrier and deeply nourish the fiber.
Common Causes of Dry Hair
Before you can treat it, you have to understand it. Here are the main reasons why your hair lacks moisture.
Environmental Factors
Sun, wind, cold and urban pollution attack the hair fiber day after day. UV rays, for example, can damage the cuticle, while dry air sucks moisture from the hair. Hard water (rich in limescale) also weakens the fiber with every wash.
In winter, drier ambient air and temperature variations between heated interiors and cold exteriors accentuate dehydration.
Textured hair, already sensitive to dryness, is particularly vulnerable to these aggressions.
Hair Care Practice
Over-frequent washing, aggressive shampoos containing sulfates, or the absence of conditioner can quickly dry out hair. Dry styling, chemical coloring and repeated straightening also damage the cuticle.
If you have low-porosity hair, it's essential to use the care products to avoid blocking moisture.
We have many guides on products to assist with dry hair care:
Health Factors
Stress, hormonal disorders, certain dietary deficiencies (iron, zinc, biotin), chronic fatigue or poor lifestyle habits can unbalance the scalp and weaken the hair fiber. A lack of body moisture can also affect the appearance of your hair.
Lifestyle Factors
Wearing synthetic hats or scarves can absorb hair's natural moisture, as can sleeping directly on a cotton pillowcase. These textiles cause friction that dries out the hair fiber and promotes breakage.
Remedies to Fix Dry Hair
Once we understand the cause of dry hair, we can take effective action with the right products and actions.
Fortunately, there are many natural and affordable solutions to restore your hair's health. Here are the most effective remedies for restoring suppleness, shine and moisture to your lengths.
Adjusting Hair Washing Routine
Washing your hair too often or with harsh products can rob it of its natural moisture. Opt for a sulfate-free, gentle, moisturizing shampoo, to be used once or twice a week maximum.
Alternate with a co-wash (cleansing conditioner) to gently cleanse without stripping. Massage into the scalp without excessive friction, and always rinse with lukewarm water.
Incorporating Deep Conditioning Treatments
Moisturizing masks and deep conditioning treatments are essential for repairing the hair fiber. Use a mask rich in shea butter, coconut oil, plant proteins or Chébé, once a week. Apply to clean, damp hair, leave on for 20-30 minutes under a heated cap or towel, then rinse.
To complete your routine, discover the best 4C hair oils and our top picks for the best 4C hair moisturizers.
Limiting Heat and Chemical Exposure
Heated tools (straightening irons, blow-drying) and chemical treatments (straightening, coloring) weaken the fiber and accelerate dryness. If you use heat, always apply a thermo-protector beforehand. Space out straightening and avoid chemical treatments too close together. Favor heat-free styling to preserve the health of your curls.
Get inspired by our selection of the best 3C hair products
Protective Hairstyles and Practices
Protective hairstyles like vanilles, box braids or low buns help reduce manipulation and external aggression. They keep lengths moisturized, especially when accompanied by a regular moisturizing routine. Remember to moisturize your hair even when styled, and sleep with a satin cap or scarf to prevent breakage.
Bonus tip: find out the best leave-in conditioner for Afro hair and for gentle detangling, see our post on the best detanglers for 4C hair
Lifestyle and Dietary Considerations
To repair dry hair in the long term, you also need to think about what you put on your plate. An effective hair routine starts from within, with a healthy diet and habits that nourish hair at its roots.
Nutrition for Hair Health
A balanced diet plays a key role in hair health. Hair needs protein (chicken, eggs, legumes), iron (spinach, lentils), zinc and B vitamins (especially biotin) to grow in top condition. Essential fatty acids such as omega-3, found in oily fish, flaxseed and walnuts, also help moisturize the scalp from within and strengthen the hair fiber.
Hydration and Overall Wellness
Drinking enough water is essential to maintain hair's natural hydration. A well-hydrated body is directly reflected in the appearance of skin and hair. We recommend drinking between 1.5 and 2 liters of water a day.
Remember to include infusions and water-rich fruits (watermelon, cucumber), and limit dehydrating drinks such as coffee and alcohol. Good sleep, regular exercise and stress management complete this holistic approach to hair care.
Combat Dry Hair with Chéribé Collection
At Chéribé, we've designed a range of expert treatments that target the root causes of dry hair.
Our formulas, rich in natural active ingredients such as Chébé, precious plant oils and repair complexes, help restore moisture, strengthen the hair fiber and stimulate growth. Whether you have wavy, curly, frizzy or frizzy hair, our products are designed to intensely nourish while respecting your natural texture. You’ll be amazed at some Chebe before and after hair transformations.
Discover all of Chéribé collection
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