How to Deal with Static Hair

You style your hair, step outside, are standing on end — that’s static hair. Colder weather or hair rubbing against knitwear like scarves or sweaters can cause your hair to become electrically charged and strands repel each other.

The good news? As static hair is a sign that your strands are craving moisture, it’s easy to fix with the right care. Here’s everything you need to know about how to prevent static hair and keep your strands smooth, sleek and manageable.

What Causes Static Hair?

Static hair happens when your hair picks up extra electrical charge due to friction from different fabrics or brushing or from a lack of moisture. In humid conditions, there’s less moisture in the air, which leads to your hair becoming dehydrated and more likely to build up static electricity.

Common causes of static hair include:

• Cold weather and indoor heating.
• Synthetic fabrics (like hats or scarves).
• Over-washing hair or harsh shampoos.
• Lack of hydration or conditioning.
• Excessive brushing on dry hair.

How to Prevent Static Hair

Preventing static hair starts with nourishing dry hair by restoring moisture and smoothness it. Start with a nourishing hair care routine order: cleanse with smoothing shampoo, condition deeply, protect from heat, and finish with a smoothing oil. Follow these steps to keep your strands calm and controlled, even in the driest conditions.

1. Use a Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner

As static hair can be caused by dry conditions, you can start to combat this by nourishing your hair from the shower. Nourishing formulas help balance your hair’s natural oils and reduce dryness. Our ULTIMATE SMOOTH line deeply nourishes and provides up to 85% smoother hair*, which can help to fight against the friction that causes static hair. Partner the ULTIMATE SMOOTH Shampoo with ULTIMATE SMOOTH Conditioner and ULTIMATE SMOOTH Miracle Oil Serum and experience salon-quality, silky shine with 96 hours of frizz control** to combat against static hair.

*when using Miracle Oil Serum vs non-conditioning shampoo.

**when using miracle oil serum.

2. Apply a Protective Leave-In

Protective leave-ins are the best tools when it comes to static reduction. They coat the hair shaft to help lock in moisture and minimize friction. Try our ULTIMATE REPAIR Protective Leave-In for up to 8x smoother* hair; it can help protect against the friction that causes static hair. For instant hydration, our INVIGO Nutri-Enrich Wonder Balm is great for nourishing dry hair without weighing it down.

* Instrumental test.

3. Protect Hair from Heat

Excess heat can strip your hair of natural moisture, increasing static and frizz. Ensure you always use a heat protectant before styling. We recommend our EIMI Smooth Thermal Image heat protection spray which shields hair up to 220°C, smooths the hair and adds a glossy finish.

4. Swap Plastic Brushes for Wooden or Ionic Ones

Plastic brushes can generate static. Instead, we recommend a wooden brush or an ionic brush that helps neutralize electric charge, move your scalp’s oils down the length of your hair and reduce frizz as you detangle. Go a step further with an ionic blow dryer; they calm flyaways that appear when your hair is dry or is rubbed by clothes.

5. Add a Finishing Oil, Serum or Hairspray

Finish your look with a lightweight oil or serum to seal in smoothness and moisture, while also creating an anti-static barrier. Our ULTIMATE SMOOTH Miracle Oil Serum not only smooths and tames flyaways, but it also nourishes hair in just 30 seconds — the perfect quick fix for when you’re in a hurry . If you have very fine hair, a hairspray is a good option to control staticness on dry hair.

7. Wear a Slicked-Back Updo

Simple and stylish, the trending sleek ponies are an effortless way to stay on trend while keeping static hair at bay. Keeping your hair in place with a gel or mousse means less rubbing with clothes and fewer opportunities for electric charge. Minimize contact even further by putting your hair into a braid or bun.

Quick Fixes for Static Hair on the Go

Sometimes static hair happens when you least expect it. Here’s how to fix static hair fast:

• Rub a drop of serum or oil between your palms and smooth over your hair.

• For instant results, use a hairspray to control static.

• Mist a tiny bit of water or leave-in spray to add moisture and reduce charge.

• Avoid clothing made from synthetic fibers that causes friction, which leads to static hair.

Frequently Asked Questions About Static Hair

Why does my hair get static in winter?

Cold weather and indoor heating reduce humidity, which can cause hair to become dry and prone to staticness. Using hydrating products can help to maintain balance.

Can conditioner help with static hair?

Yes, conditioners and leave-in treatments replenish lost moisture and coat the hair, reducing the staticness. Also styling products and hairspray helps to control it.

Does static mean my hair is damaged?

Not always, but if you’re experiencing static hair frequently, this can be a sign of dryness or weakened strands. Regular conditioning and heat protection can help to repair and prevent damage.

How do I stop static in my hair overnight?

Using a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and applying a leave-in treatment before bed can help with maintaining smoothness.

For more hair care tips as well as color and styling advice, take a look at our blog. Want to know more about your hair? Take our hair quiz for an expert hair consultation.