Why Your Hair Looks Like Straw and How to Fix It

Why is my hair so dry and brittle?

Straw-like hair is often the result of common hair care mistakes, such as these:

• You use hair-drying and styling tools (hair dryers, curling irons, electric curlers, flat irons) set to too high a temperature
• You use heat-based drying and styling tools too often
• Do you wash your hair with shampoo that contains harsh ingredients, such as sulfates, which dry out your hair?
• You don't use conditioner often enough
• You don't include a hydrating hair mask in your hair care routine
• You aren't gentle enough when combing your hair
• You don't eat a diet that provides enough vitamins and minerals to support healthy hair
• You dye or bleach your hair too often
• You don't get your hair trimmed often enough, which results in split ends
• You don't protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a product that protects against UV rays
• You expose your hair to certain environmental conditions, such as a hot, dry climate or cold, dry air, which can occur when the seasons change
• You expose your hair to excessive amounts of chemicals, for example, by spending a lot of time in the pool

Can straw-like hair be a health problem?

Dry and brittle hair can be a sign of health problems such as:

Hypothyroidism

If your thyroid gland isn't producing enough thyroid hormones, one of the first symptoms may be dry, brittle hair.

Hypoparathyroidism

If your body doesn't produce enough parathyroid hormone, you may have a calcium deficiency, which can result in dry and brittle hair.

Eating Disorder

Many eating disorders lead to malnutrition, which can result in dry and brittle hair.

How to Treat Dry and Brittle Hair

The first step in treating straw-like hair is to reevaluate your hair care routine. Consider making changes to your lifestyle and the products you use. For example:

• Try to lower the temperature on your hair dryers and styling tools, and use them less often
• Choose a shampoo that does not contain harmful ingredients, such as sulfates and parabens
• Choose a conditioner and use it often
• Protect your hair from the sun's UV rays and other environmental factors by wearing a hat, scarf, or other head covering
• Adjust your diet to include nutritious foods that promote healthy hair

In Conclusion

If changes to your products and lifestyle don't solve the problem, see a doctor or dermatologist.