Frizzy

Frizzy is an adjective used primarily to describe hair that appears dry, frayed, or unruly, with strands that stick out rather than lie flat. It is common in curly or chemically treated hair, where the cuticle scales raise or loosen.

Causes include humidity and moisture imbalance, heat damage from styling tools, chemical processing such as coloring or perming, mechanical stress from brushing or tight hairstyles, and environmental factors like wind or dry air.

Frizz affects texture and appearance by increasing volume and reducing smoothness, especially in humid conditions. Management typically involves hydration and proper cleansing: using a conditioner and a sulfate-free shampoo, applying leave-in products or anti-frizz serums, and smoothing with oils. Limiting heat exposure, air-drying or using a diffuser, gentle towel drying, and sleeping on a satin pillowcase can help reduce frizz.

In addition to hair, frizzy can describe fabrics or surfaces with a fuzzy, irregular texture, though hair care is the primary context in everyday usage. The term features prominently in cosmetic product names and marketing, such as anti-frizz or frizz-control formulations.

Etymology: frizzy derives from frizz, meaning to curl or kink, with the suffix -y forming an adjective. The word has been in use in English since the 19th century to describe hair patterns and related textures.