Why does hair start to frizz in autumn and how to deal with it?

Autumn is a wonderful time of the year: colorful leaves, cozy sweaters, the aroma of coffee, and cool morning air. But for hair, it’s a challenging season. Many people notice that in autumn, their hair starts to frizz, becomes unruly, hard to style, and loses its polished look.

If previously your hair dried smoothly and was easy to manage, the onset of damp and cool weather can make it “puff up,” strands stick out, and create a chaotic appearance. Why does this happen, and how can you restore smoothness, shine, and control? Let’s figure it out.

Why Hair Frizzes in Autumn

Frizz is the result of a combination of environmental factors and the hair’s condition. The main reasons are:

1. Increased Humidity

Autumn air becomes more humid due to rain, fog, and temperature fluctuations. Humidity causes hair to absorb moisture from the air, and the hair cuticle reacts by “lifting.” This makes hair lose smoothness, and individual strands begin to stick out and frizz.

2. Seasonal Temperature Changes

Moving from warm indoor spaces to cool outdoor air (and vice versa) stresses the hair. The hair’s outer layer (cuticle) opens and closes with rapid temperature changes, making the hair more prone to frizz.

3. Dry Indoor Air

Even if it’s humid outside, heating in homes and offices dries the air. Dry air removes moisture from hair, making it brittle, thin, and less smooth. Frizz appears stronger as hair tries to balance its moisture.

4. Hair Structure

Some hair types are more prone to frizz:

• Curly and wavy hair — naturally uneven in structure, easily affected by humidity.

• Fine hair — absorbs moisture easily and loses control over shape.

• Damaged hair — split ends and breakage intensify frizz.

How to Fight Frizz in Autumn

To keep hair smooth and manageable, combine home care with good habits.

1. Proper Cleansing

Choose gentle shampoos that don’t over-dry your hair. Excessive cleansing “strips” hair, making it porous and frizzy.

• Wash hair as needed according to its type.

• Use warm water instead of hot water — hot water opens the cuticle and increases frizz.

2. Conditioner is Essential

Conditioner helps “seal” the hair cuticle, making strands smooth and manageable.

• Apply conditioner after every wash, focusing on the length, avoiding roots.

• Use lighter formulas for fine hair, richer ones for thick or damaged hair.

3. Hair Masks

Masks deeply hydrate and nourish hair, strengthen it, and reduce frizz.

• Use a mask at least once a week.

• Masks with natural oils and moisturizing ingredients are especially effective in autumn.

4. Leave-In Products

Serums, oils, and hair creams create a protective layer that helps hair retain moisture and smoothness.

• Apply on slightly damp or dry hair.

• Use lightweight formulas for fine hair, richer ones for thicker hair.

5. Drying Techniques

Proper drying reduces frizz:

• Whenever possible, let hair air dry.

• If using a hairdryer, set it on low or medium heat.

• Direct airflow from top to bottom to help close the cuticle and keep hair smooth.

6. Brushing

Frizz worsens when hair is brushed incorrectly.

• Use brushes with natural bristles or wide-tooth combs.

• Start detangling from the ends, moving gradually toward the roots.

• Avoid pulling or yanking on dry, tangled hair — this damages the structure.

7. Protection from External Factors

Autumn hair needs protection from wind, rain, and temperature changes.

• Wear hats or hoods outdoors.

• Use light leave-in oils to protect against humidity.

Recommended Home Hair Care

Autumn calls for extra hydration and nourishment. Here’s what helps:

• Gentle moisturizing shampoos — cleanse without over-drying.

• Nourishing conditioners — seal the cuticle and smooth hair.

• Masks with oils and vitamins — deeply nourish and lock in moisture.

• Leave-in serums and oils — create a protective layer and reduce frizz.

Regular use of these products keeps hair smooth, soft, and manageable even on the dampest days.

Salon Treatments for Autumn Hair Care

Home care is essential, but for highly frizzy or damaged hair, professional treatments are beneficial:

• Moisturizing and restorative treatments for hair structure.

• Deep nourishment and lamination to create a protective layer.

• Treatments for smoothness and shine.

Regular salon visits help hair stay healthy and better withstand seasonal humidity changes.

Daily Hair Care Tips in Autumn

• Avoid drying hair with too hot air.

• Use lightweight leave-in products as needed.

• Brush gently after slight hydration.

• Wear headwear outdoors.

• Keep indoor air moisturized — this reduces frizz.

Mistakes That Increase Frizz

• Leaving hair dry without conditioner or mask.

• Aggressive washing with hot water.

• Excessive heat styling without protection.

• Ignoring leave-in care.

Avoiding these mistakes significantly reduces frizz and keeps hair manageable.

Conclusion

Autumn is a challenging season for hair, especially for those prone to frizz. But with the right care and attention, hair can remain smooth, shiny, and manageable.

Key steps:

1. Gentle cleansing and conditioning.

2. Regular hydration with masks.

3. Leave-in products for protection.

4. Proper drying and brushing.

5. Protection from wind, rain, and temperature changes.

Following these simple rules keeps your hair beautiful and soft, even in rainy and humid autumn days.

If you want to select the best hair care for your hair type this season, we can help you choose products that suit your needs perfectly.