While static hair is a real nightmare, it’s not going to kill you.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 100–250 volts is lethal to humans.
Luckily, the static charge in hair is much lower.
So here’s how to get rid of static hair naturally.
What Is Static Hair?
Static hair is caused by static electricity building up in your hair. When you experience sudden static hair, it’s often due to friction (like rubbing your hair on a sweater).
This friction leads to a transfer of electrons, creating an electric charge in your hair.
Normally, objects have a balanced charge, with an equal number of positive and negative charges. However, electrons may be transferred when friction occurs. This leaves your hair either positively charged or negatively charged.
These unbalanced charges cause your hair strands to repel each other, resulting in the flyaway, static look you might experience.
What Causes Static Hair?
You get static hair for many reasons:
- Friction builds up an electric charge.
- In dry air, especially during winter, the lack of humidity makes it easier for static to build up.
- Heat styling also adds to the problem because it strips your hair of its natural moisture.
- Synthetic fibers like wool and polyester can increase the static in your hair-
- Wearing a hat can also contribute to hat hair, which is another kind of static issue.
So to get rid of static hair, you have to combat one or more of these causes.
1. Natural Oils for Static Hair
Natural oils are a great way to combat static hair as they provide moisture.
When your hair is well-hydrated, it’s less likely to be affected by static electricity. You can use natural oils like:
- Coconut oil
- Avocado oil
- Olive oil
- Jojoba oil
- Argan oil
- Aloe gel
Argan oil is a well-known option for taming static hair. It’s rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, which enhances your hair’s natural shine and prevents it from drying out.
Avocado oil, sage, and cherry butter are also great for this as they keep your hair moisturized and static-free.
Remember, moisture helps to reduce the occurrence of static hair. Just apply a small amount of any of these oils to your hair and you’ll see the difference.
So, the next time you’re dealing with static hair, reach for one of these natural oils to help bring your hair back to its smooth and shiny state.
2. Natural Hydrating Hair Care Products
Natural hair care products add moisture to manage static hair:
- Moisturizing shampoo
- Hydrating conditioner
- Hair oil
- Leave-in conditioner
- Hairspray
Use a moisturizing shampoo and hydrating conditioner. These work together to keep moisture locked in your hair, reducing the static caused by dryness.
Next, consider using hair oil. This is an excellent way to provide extra hydration to your hair. A little goes a long way, so add a few drops to your hands and run them through your hair to prevent and tame static.
A leave-in conditioner can also help keep your hair hydrated throughout the day. Apply a small amount after washing, and massage it through your hair.
Finally, consider a hairspray with natural ingredients. Hairspray is great at reducing static, but choose one that’s free of harsh chemicals. Aim for a light, natural hairspray so you won’t weigh down your beautiful locks.
3. Wooden & Metal Combs
Plastic combs cause static hair because of their ability to generate static electricity.
Instead, use wooden combs or metal combs as they don’t create as much static. Wooden combs also help distribute your hair’s natural oils. This keeps your hair moisturized and less prone to static.
When using styling tools like flat irons or curling irons, protect your hair from heat damage. Dry hair tends to be more static-prone.
Before applying heat, use a heat protector spray. This creates a barrier to shield your hair from excessive heat and prevent damage. A good quality heat protectant will help keep moisture in your hair, reducing the chances of static hair.
4. Use Natural Fabrics
Synthetic fabrics contribute to static hair. Instead, use natural fabrics.
Fabrics like silk, cotton, and wool are gentle on your hair and less likely to cause static hair.
Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, as they’re known to cause static electricity.
5. Do Your Hair Right
Did you know that doing your hair in braids or pulling it up can help in combating static?
By braiding or pulling your hair up, you minimize the surface area that rubs against clothing. This keeps friction to a minimum.
Braids keep your hair together. This means your hair strands won’t rub against each other a lot. When they rub a lot, they can make static electricity. So, it lowers the chance of creating static electricity in your hair.
Braids are also a great way of protecting your hair from damage and breakage. It’s a win-win method for a good hair day.
If you like to keep your hair out of the way, go for a bun or a simple ponytail. Like braids, this trick gathers your hair together. It stops your hair strands from rubbing so much. This way, it reduces the chance of creating static in your hair.
So next time your hair is acting up with static, try a braid or pull your hair up, and you’re all set for a static-free hair day.
6. Run Your Fingers Through Your Hair With Water
Water is the simplest natural solution to combat static hair.
When you start to notice that your hair is getting staticky, wet your hands and run them through your hair. The dampness breaks up the static charge and smoothes your hair without weighing it down or making it look greasy.
Use just enough water to make your hands moist. Not soaking wet. Too much water makes your hair flat.
This is a temporary, but easy solution.
7. Don’t Over Clean Your Hair
Over-cleaning your hair can contribute to static hair problems.
When you shampoo your hair too often, you strip away natural oils. These keep your hair moisturized and less prone to static.
To avoid this issue, try washing your hair less often.
Every other day or even less often, depending on your hair type. By doing so, you’ll allow your scalp to produce the essential oils it needs to stay moisturized.
When you do wash, use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo. It’ll be less harsh on your hair. It doesn’t strip away your hair’s natural moisture and leaves your locks less prone to static.
Don’t forget to use a conditioner after shampooing. A moisturizing conditioner or a leave-in conditioner keeps your hair hydrated, frizz-free, and static-free.
8. Dry Your Hair Gently
When you dry, be gentle.
Aggressive towel drying or hairdryers make your hair more susceptible to static. Instead, squeeze excess water from your hair with a towel and allow it to air dry. Or, use a low heat setting if you must use a hairdryer.
9. Silk & Satin Pillowcases
Silk and satin pillowcases prevent static hair during the night. These types of pillowcases reduce friction between your hair and the pillow, which is one of the main causes of static hair.
Switching to a silk or satin pillowcase also benefits your skin. The smooth texture of these materials minimizes wrinkles and prevents breakouts.
Use a gentle detergent and avoid fabric softeners when washing these pillowcases. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat and iron on the lowest possible setting if necessary.
Not only do silk and satin pillowcases work wonders for your hair, they also add a touch of luxury to your sleeping experience.
10. Humidify
Humidifiers add moisture to the air. This counteracts dry conditions that often cause static hair.
When the air is too dry, your hair can lose its natural moisture, leaving it more prone to static electricity.
Place the humidifier in the room where you spend most of your time. Or place it in your bedroom, so that you and your hair enjoy the extra humidity while you sleep.
If you don’t have a humidifier, place a bowl of water near your heating system or radiator. The water will evaporate and help humidify the air around you.
The ideal humidity in your living space should be between 30% and 50%. You can track this with a hygrometer and make adjustments as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural remedies can help reduce static in hair?
To reduce hair static, a rinse of water and apple cider vinegar after washing can balance your hair’s pH level. Additionally, applying a bit of coconut or olive oil on the hair ends pre-styling can maintain softness and prevent static.
How do you prevent static hair in the winter months?
To avoid winter static hair, maintain hydration with moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Weekly, apply a mask or deep conditioner for added care. Use a humidifier at home to maintain moist air, preventing static.
Why does hair become static after washing and how to avoid it?
When you wash your hair, it can get static. This happens because water changes the natural balance of your hair. To stop this, use a shampoo and conditioner that adds moisture. Make sure these products are good for your hair. Rinse your hair well too. Any leftover shampoo or conditioner can make your hair static.
What causes excessive static in hair?
Hair can get too staticky when it’s dry or damaged. This can happen because of heat styling and chemical treatments. Dry weather can also cause this. These things make your hair lose moisture. This makes your hair more prone to static.
Which natural leave-in conditioners can help with static hair?
To fight static hair, try this. Wash your hair first. Then, put a little aloe vera gel or argan oil on the ends of your hair. These are natural conditioners. They add moisture and protect your hair. This helps make your hair smooth. Do this before you style your hair.
How to stop hair from being static when brushing?
Use a natural or ionic hairbrush to neutralize hair charge and reduce static. Mist it lightly with water or leave-in conditioner for additional static control.
