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

Short answer: Dry hair occurs when the cuticle loses moisture due to harsh hair care products, sun exposure or an unbalanced diet. With gentle care and the right nutrients, dry hair can usually be improved.

Dry hair is a problem that many men are familiar with, but rarely take seriously. The hair feels brittle, loses its shine and breaks more easily than normal. Nevertheless, there are specific steps you can take – from choosing your shampoo to your daily diet. In this article, you’ll find out what causes dry hair, how to recognise it and what you can actually do about it.

What exactly is dry hair?

Dry hair occurs when the natural oils from the scalp no longer reach the hair properly. The sebaceous glands in your scalp produce sebum: an oily substance that coats and protects the hair shaft. If this supply is insufficient or disrupted, the hair’s outermost protective layer – the cuticle – loses its moisture.

The scales of the cuticle lift, allowing moisture to escape from the hair and leaving it vulnerable. Studies on hair structure show that an intact cuticle is essential for the hair’s elasticity and shine.

What causes dry hair in men?

The most common cause is washing too frequently with a shampoo containing harsh cleansing agents. Sulphates, which are found in many common shampoos, strip the hair shaft of its natural oils. Furthermore, environmental factors play a major role: prolonged exposure to sun, wind or dry air damages the hair fibre. Dermatological studies show that UV radiation directly damages the hair’s protein structure.

Chemical treatments such as perms or bleaching also increase the hair’s porosity, causing it to dry out more quickly. Finally, an unbalanced diet contributes to dry hair: a lack of fluids, proteins or essential fatty acids takes its toll on the hair fibre.

How can you tell if your hair is dry?

Dry hair feels rough or brittle, even straight after washing. It loses its shine and looks dull and lifeless. Frizz is a common symptom, as are split ends, which break off easily when combed.

If your hair is difficult to style and quickly becomes static, this is also a sign that its moisture balance is disrupted. These signs are recognisable to most men, and fortunately, they respond well to targeted care.

What really helps with dry hair?

The basis is a mild, sulphate-free shampoo that cleanses the hair without completely stripping away its natural oils. Cosmetological studies show that nourishing conditioners and hair masks can smooth the cuticle and restore the moisture content of the hair fibre. Use a moisturising mask once or twice a week and, ideally, let your hair air-dry.

If you use a hairdryer, set it to a low temperature and keep it at a slight distance from your hair. A small amount of argan oil on the ends helps to lock in moisture without making the hair greasy. Consistency is key here: a one-off intensive treatment is less effective than a regular daily routine. If you’d also like to know which shampoo for hair loss has been proven to be effective, read our explanation of how medicated shampoos work.

Does diet also play a role in dry hair?

Diet plays a bigger role than many men realise. Hair consists largely of keratin, a protein that needs to be constantly replenished. Research into diet and hair growth shows that a deficiency in protein, zinc, iron and B-complex vitamins has a direct impact on hair quality.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods such as oily fish and walnuts, support sebum production and help to moisturise the hair. A diet rich in unprocessed protein sources, vegetables and healthy fats provides a solid foundation for healthy hair. If you’d also like to know how you can promote hair growth through diet and lifestyle, you’ll find further details in our knowledge base article on faster hair growth.

When is dry hair more than just a styling issue?

In most cases, dry hair is simply a styling issue, but persistently brittle or thinning hair can also be an early sign of something else. Hormonal changes, particularly a rise in dihydrotestosterone (DHT), can cause hair to miniaturise and become brittle. Prolonged stress is also a known factor: find out more about stress-related hair loss and its impact on the hair growth cycle.

The NHG, the professional association of Dutch GPs, identifies several causes of hair problems that require a targeted approach. If you notice that your hair is thinning or you’re seeing more hair in your brush, read more about the causes and prevention of hair loss to better understand what’s going on.

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

Fellos is an online health platform specialising in men’s health, including hair problems. The initial online consultation takes around three minutes and is assessed by a Dutch doctor. Based on your situation, the doctor will draw up a personalised treatment plan, which may include not only medication but also advice on hair care and lifestyle.

Where hair loss is confirmed, treatments are available that stimulate hair growth using minoxidil; Fellos investigates the underlying cause rather than limiting itself to cosmetic solutions. Everything is delivered discreetly to your home, without you having to visit a pharmacy or clinic.

What do men say about their experiences with Fellos?

Men who use Fellos cite the convenience of online support as one of the biggest benefits. There’s no need to book an appointment with a dermatologist or repeat your medical history several times. The expert explanation helps men understand what’s happening to their hair and what they can do to help.

Many users appreciate finally knowing what really works and what’s just marketing. For men who also suffer from hair loss, the hair loss treatment at Fellos offers a comprehensive overview of the options available.

Restore the health of your hair with the help of Fellos

Dry hair doesn’t have to be a permanent problem. With the right care, a diet that supports your hair, and expert guidance, you can restore your hair’s shine and vitality. If you find that there’s more to it than just dryness, Fellos is on hand with an online initial consultation and a treatment plan tailored to your situation.

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Frequently asked questions about dry hair in men

Why is my hair so dry even though I wash it regularly?

Washing your hair too often is actually a common cause of dry hair. Shampoos containing sulphates cleanse aggressively and remove not only dirt but also the natural oils that protect your hair. Washing less frequently and switching to a mild shampoo often solves this problem.

Can dry hair lead to hair loss?

Dry, brittle hair can snap off, which looks like hair loss but technically isn’t. However, persistent dry hair can be a sign of hormonal or nutritional causes, which can also lead to hair loss. If in doubt, an online initial consultation with Fellos is a good first step.

Does a hair mask help with dry hair in men?

Yes. A moisturising hair mask, used once or twice a week, restores the moisture content of the hair fibre and smooths the cuticle. For best results, choose a mask based on keratin, argan oil or shea butter.

Is dry hair a sign of a vitamin deficiency?

It can be. A deficiency in zinc, iron, vitamin B7 (biotin) or omega-3 fatty acids is a well-known cause of dry and dull hair. A varied diet with sufficient protein and vegetables forms the basis for healthy hair.

When should I see a doctor about dry hair?

If, in addition to dry hair, you also notice that your hair is becoming thinner, you’re experiencing increased hair loss or you’ve noticed bald patches, it’s advisable to consult a doctor. Fellos offers an online initial consultation, during which a Dutch doctor will assess your situation and advise you.

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