Fizzy hair in men: what causes it and what can you do about it?

Short answer: Frizzy hair occurs when the hair cuticles are raised, causing moisture to evaporate and the hair to lose its smooth texture. With the right care, a mild shampoo and sufficient moisturising, frizzy hair can be effectively managed in most men.

Frizzy hair is a daily nuisance for many men. It’s unruly, feels dry and simply refuses to stay in place, no matter how you style it. Many men believe it’s simply down to their hair type, but frizzy hair is often a sign that the hair is damaged, lacks moisture or is being cared for incorrectly. In this article, you’ll find out what causes frizzy hair, how to recognise damage and what specifically helps.

What exactly is frizzy hair?

Frizzy hair occurs when the outermost layer of the hair shaft – the cuticle – is damaged or lifted. The cuticle consists of small, overlapping scales which, when healthy, lie flat against the hair shaft. When these scales open up, the hair loses its smooth surface and moisture can escape. The result: hair that looks dry, dull and unruly.

A systematic review shows that the lipid layer on the hair cuticles, known as 18-MEA, plays a crucial role in determining how hydrophobic and smooth the hair is. As soon as this lipid layer is damaged or missing, the likelihood of frizzy hair increases significantly. The hair then absorbs moisture from the air more easily, which exacerbates the unruly texture.

What are the main causes of frizzy hair in men?

The most common cause is simply dryness. Prolonged exposure to the sun, dry air, sea water or a hairdryer set to a high temperature strips the hair of moisture and damages the cuticle layer. However, everyday habits also play a major role.

Research shows that both chemical and physical treatments impair the structure of the cuticle, leading to increased porosity and frizz. This applies to the use of heat styling, but also to harsh sulphate-based shampoos, which strip away the hair’s natural protective oils. Washing your hair too frequently exacerbates this effect: if you wash your hair daily with a strong cleanser, you also remove the protective layers that keep the hair supple. Insufficient moisture, inadequate care and the use of alcohol-based styling products complete the picture.

How can you tell if your hair is damaged?

Damaged hair displays a number of recognisable characteristics. It looks dull rather than shiny, breaks more easily when combed or styled, and is difficult to straighten. The most well-known sign is a straw-like texture: if your hair feels like straw or hay, it is almost certainly dehydrated or structurally damaged.

Research into heat damage shows that repeated heating of the hair causes measurable structural damage to both the cuticle and the cortex, the inner core of the hair. This damage accumulates: every time you blow-dry your hair or use a straightening iron without protection, a little more damage is caused. Once hair has suffered structural damage, it does not fully repair itself, but you can limit further damage and visibly improve its condition.

What really helps with frizzy hair?

The basis of any hair care routine is a mild, sulphate-free shampoo. Sulphates are too harsh for most hair types: they remove not only dirt but also the protective lipid layer that keeps the cuticle sealed. If you switch to a mild shampoo, you’ll notice a difference after just a few weeks.

Research shows that treatments containing proteins and polysaccharides can prevent damage to the cuticle and strengthen the hair. A moisturising conditioner or hair mask, used weekly, helps to seal the cuticle and lock in moisture. Argan or jojoba oil, applied to damp hair, visibly reduces frizz. When using a hairdryer, set it to a low heat setting and use a wide-toothed comb instead of a brush.

Consistency is key here. According to Thuisarts.nl, dryness and irritation of the scalp are factors that contribute to changes in hair quality; a healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair.

Can diet or lifestyle affect frizzy hair?

Yes, and this influence is often underestimated. Hair consists largely of keratin, a protein. An insufficient protein intake provides fewer building blocks for healthy hair. Omega-3 fatty acids support the distribution of lipids within the hair shaft, and a zinc deficiency disrupts cell renewal in the hair follicles.

Stress, lack of sleep and smoking impair blood circulation to the scalp, meaning the hair follicles receive fewer nutrients. Small lifestyle adjustments can therefore make a noticeable difference to the condition of your hair.

When should you see a doctor?

If frizzy hair is accompanied by hair loss or a receding hairline, there may be an underlying cause. Thinning hair can be an early sign of androgenetic alopecia, a condition in which DHT causes the hair follicles to miniaturise. Thinning hair is structurally more fragile and therefore tends to become frizzy more quickly.

Other causes that can affect the condition of your hair include thyroid problems or iron deficiency. If in doubt, it is advisable to seek medical advice. You can find further background information in our article on the causes and prevention of hair loss.

How does Fellos help with hair problems such as frizzy or thinning hair?

Fellos offers online medical advice for men with hair problems. As part of a three-minute online assessment test, a Dutch doctor will evaluate your situation: Is it a case of ordinary hair damage, or is androgenetic alopecia a factor? Based on this, a personalised treatment plan is drawn up. If medicines such as finasteride and minoxidil are suitable for treating hair loss, they are prescribed and discreetly delivered to your home. A hair loss treatment with Fellos is therefore easily accessible and quick.

Microscopic examinations show that chemical styling products damage the cuticle layers of the hair shaft. If you regularly use styling chemicals and notice that your hair is becoming increasingly dry and frizzy, an assessment by a doctor is a logical next step to rule out any underlying causes.

Restore the condition of your hair with the help of Fellos

In most cases, frizzy hair is a sign that your hair needs extra care – it’s not an unsolvable problem. With the right shampoo, sufficient hydration and a few adjustments to your routine, you’ll see results. However, if your hair is also becoming thinner, falling out or remaining structurally dry, it’s advisable to have this investigated. At Fellos, you can book an online initial consultation and receive a personalised assessment from a Dutch doctor. This way, you’ll know exactly what your hair needs and which approach suits you best. You can also find further background information in our articles on shampoo for hair loss and faster hair growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my hair become frizzy after showering?

After showering, the hair cuticles are open due to the heat and moisture. If you then rub your hair dry with a rough towel or blow-dry it immediately at a high temperature, the cuticles won’t close properly. Use a microfibre towel, gently pat your hair dry and blow-dry it at a low temperature to prevent frizz.

Can I prevent frizzy hair without using expensive products?

Yes. The biggest difference comes from small habits: wash your hair less often, use cold water for the final rinse, avoid high hairdryer temperatures and use a conditioner after every wash. Affordable sulphate-free shampoos work just as well as expensive ones, as long as they’re gentle.

Is frizzy hair a sign of hair loss?

Not always. Frizzy hair is usually caused by dryness or damage to the hair. However, if your hair is also becoming thinner, falling out or you notice a receding hairline, there may be an underlying cause such as hereditary hair loss. In this case, it is advisable to see a doctor.

Does hair care oil really help with frizzy hair?

Yes. Light oils such as argan or jojoba oil form a protective layer around the hair shaft and help to keep the cuticle closed. Apply a small amount to damp hair, not to the scalp itself. Don’t use too much: a few drops are enough for most hair lengths.

How long does it take to see the results of better hair care?

For most men, a difference in the smoothness and manageability of the hair can be noticed after just two to four weeks. A complete improvement in the condition of the hair takes longer, as hair grows slowly and damaged hair does not regenerate immediately. Regularity is more important than intensive one-off treatments.