5 Signs Your Hair is Dehydrated

Most people assume their hair is dry, but in reality, it's worse. It's dehydrated. 

Dry hair is hair that does not have enough moisture and oil on the surface of the hair to maintain normal sheen and texture. Whereas, Dehydrated hair goes deeper into the hair's physical structure.

Dehydrated hair is when the hair lacks water within the hair shaft, making it unable to retain moisture.

But before we freak out, and hop on the train that YOUR hair is dehydrated, let's take a dive into how to identify the signs of dehydrated hair and address them effectively. Understanding these signs can help you tailor your hair care routine to meet your specific needs and keep your hair healthy, growing,  and hydrated.

So, what are the signs of dehydrated hair?

1. Hair Feels Like Straw

 If your hair is hard to the touch, feels like straw, and appears shriveled up, it’s a clear sign of dehydration. Healthy hair should feel soft and pliable, not rough and brittle.

2. Hair Repels Water

Dehydrated hair often repels water rather than absorbing it. When you try to wet your hair, it might take longer than usual to become fully saturated, indicating a lack of moisture retention.

3. Stiff Hair 

If your hair is stiff and lacks flexibility, it is likely dehydrated. Healthy hair should have a natural bounce and movement, while dehydrated hair can feel rigid and unyielding.

4. Products Sit on Top

 When your hair is dehydrated, hair care products tend to sit on the surface instead of being absorbed. This can make your hair feel greasy or weighed down, despite lacking moisture.

5. Hair Breakage 

Dehydrated hair is prone to breakage and split ends. If you notice an increase in hair breakage or find more hair strands in your brush, on your pillow, or on your shirt, it’s a sign that your hair is lacking the necessary moisture to remain strong and resilient.

Why is it important to recognize these signs?

1. Prevent Damage 

Understanding these signs can help prevent further damage to your hair. Dehydrated hair is more susceptible to breakage and split ends, so addressing dehydration early can save your hair from significant damage.

2. Improve Hair Health 

Recognizing and addressing dehydration can improve the overall health of your hair. Hydrated hair is softer, shinier, and more manageable.

3. Tailor Your Routine 

By knowing the signs of dehydration, you can tailor your hair care routine to include more hydrating products and practices. This ensures that your hair receives the moisture it needs to stay healthy. For example, a series of intensive steam treatments to help open and soften your cuticles. 

4. Effective Product Use 

Understanding that your hair is dehydrated can help you choose the right products. Hydrating shampoos, conditioners, and masks can make a significant difference in restoring moisture to your hair.

5. Healthy Scalp 

Dehydration can affect your scalp as well as your hair. Recognizing the signs can lead you to incorporate scalp treatments and moisturizers that keep your scalp healthy, which in turn supports healthy hair growth.

In conclusion, knowing the signs of dehydrated hair is crucial for maintaining healthy, strong, and beautiful hair. Start listening to what your hair is telling you and adjust your hair care routine accordingly. Hydrated hair is happy hair!