Do you often touch your hair and find it rough, coarse, and bristly—almost broom-like? If so, several factors could be contributing to this. The hair on your head acts as a protective layer against the sun, dirt, and pollutants. However, in protecting your skin, it often endures a lot of damage. Moreover, without proper care, your hair becomes more prone to breakage and brittleness.
To prevent and manage your hair from taking on a straw-like appearance, it is crucial to understand and address the root causes. You can also follow a proper hair care routine.
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Causes Of Broom-Like Hair
In general, lack of hydration and moisture in the hair is a common cause of dry, frizzy, and coarse hair, often resembling a broom's texture. Your hair needs adequate hydration to maintain its smoothness and elasticity. However, if it doesn’t get enough moisture, the hair cuticle, or the outermost layer, becomes rough, leading to dry, coarse hair.
Some of the common causes include over-washing, using harsh shampoos, or exposure to dry weather conditions. Additionally, not drinking enough water or using heat styling tools without protection can worsen the problem.
In some people, nutrient deficiencies can also influence hair quality and growth. A study published in the journal Dermatology Practical & Conceptual suggests that deficiencies in certain nutrients like protein, niacin, and other vitamins can lead to hair loss conditions like telogen effluvium and alopecia. Medical experts recommend that patients with hair loss be screened for nutritional deficiencies based on their medical and dietary history.
In addition, it is important that a person follows a proper hair care routine to nourish their hair and strengthen its roots.
Hair Care Routine For Coarse Hair
Here's a step-by-step guide to managing and minimising coarse, broom-like hair:
Shampoo: Use a sulphate-free, hydrating shampoo to cleanse without stripping your hair of its natural oils.
Condition: Use a nourishing conditioner to add moisture and detangle hair. You can also invest in leave-in conditioners or deep conditioners.
Hair mask: Apply a deep conditioning hair mask rich in oils like argan or coconut to restore moisture and improve hair texture—advised at least once a week.
Heat protection: If you use heat styling tools like straighteners or curling irons, always apply a heat protectant spray to prevent further damage.
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Apply oil: Use natural oils like argan, jojoba, or almond oil to add shine and moisture to your hair.
Detangling: Use a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush to gently comb through wet hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to prevent breakage.
Trim regularly: Keep hair healthy by trimming it every 6-8 weeks to prevent split ends and maintain its shape.
Conclusion
If your hair is coarse and rough to the touch, it is crucial to address the underlying causes and make necessary adjustments in your hair care routine. From choosing the right shampoo and conditioner to either minimising the use of hair-styling tools or using heat protectant sprays, there are a range of ways to support your hair health. If the problem is associated with a medical condition, such as a nutrient deficiency, it is best to consult a doctor or a dermatologist.