Why Did My Hair Texture Change?
DIY University by Sally Beauty

Why Did My Hair Texture Change

Understanding reasons your hair texture changed and how to handle them.

Your hair is precious and unique to you, so changes can be a shock and concern if the texture of your hair suddenly changes. This can happen for a variety of reasons including bleach damage, stress, aging and more.

In this article

What Does it Mean for Hair Texture to Change?

Texture is how your hair feels and appears. Some hair is fine and coarse to the touch while some is thick and smooth. If your curly hair suddenly loses some of its bounce, it could be because of a variety of factors.

You may not notice immediately when the texture of your hair changes, as some changes are gradual–such as exposing your hair to heat from styling tools consistently over a period of time.

Here are some of the most common causes of hair texture change.

Lightening Your Hair

On its own, a single lightening session–or even several lightening sessions over a long period of time–will not change your hair texture. However, if you lighten your already damaged hair with a strong lightener more than once, you may see a stringy, almost gum-like texture in your hair.

This happens when you overprocess your hair. If your hair is dry and split at the ends, be sure to rejuvenate it with a hair mask and avoid lightening until your hair is healthy again.

Age

Just as your hair begins to change color as you grow older, it also tends to change textures. The natural oils in our hair lessen as we age, leaving our hair dryer and more apt to become frizzy.

Of course, texture isn’t the only change you’ll notice with age. As you grow older, you will notice differences in texture and color.

Birth Control and Hormones

Birth control has many possible side effects. One of them is a possible change in your hair. One effect birth control can have on your hair is actually slowing or halting the process of growing.

Even without birth control, hormones have a large effect on your hair. Changes in your hormones can affect the way your hair grows, including your hair growth cycle (how quickly or slowly it grows) and the hair follicles itself. Your hormone levels are known to cause thinning hair in some circumstances.

You may also see changes in your hair texture during or after pregnancy. The hormone changes that women experience while pregnant can cause a lot of differences in your body from weight fluctuations, skin changes and hair texture. Some of these may resolve after you give birth, but some may not.

If you have any questions about changes in your hair texture while pregnant, be sure to speak with your OBGYN!

Stress

It is no secret that stress can harm your body in many ways. What you may not know is that it can even cause changes in your hair texture. Stress can cause your hair to thin sooner, leading to premature balding.

It is crucial to cut stress from your life for your overall health.

Your Diet

One of the biggest aspects of not just your hair, but your overall health, is your diet. Sudden drastic changes in your diet can cause hair texture changes. For example, increasing your consumption of omega fatty acids can increase the health of your hair overall.

A poor diet, on the other hand, can cause thinning and damage to your hair.

Can You Change Your Hair Texture on Purpose?

It is next to impossible to permanently change the texture of your hair. Even if you consistently use flat irons or blow dryers to style your hair, the actual texture of your hair likely won’t change–although you can cause damage to the hair shaft.

You can make temporary changes to the appearance of your hair, however.

  • Hair Care

    Through basic hair care, you can improve the feeling of your hair, its luster, fullness and more. Use heat protectants before using styling tools and invest in a good shampoo and conditioner combo that is made for your texture of hair.

    Adding nutrients with the right hair care products (such as bond builders) can add softness and shine to your hair.

  • Relaxers

    If you have naturally curly or coily hair, you can use a relaxer to smooth out the curls for a straighter appearance. This will make your hair appear smooth, although your hair will eventually return to its natural texture.

  • Perms

    Perming is the act of using a chemical treatment to change your hair’s texture. If you have straight hair, for example, you can perm it to curl without using a styling tool every morning.

    It is important to take your hair care seriously no matter what hair type you have. Make sure you find the right products for your hair texture. Washing your hair with the right shampoo and conditioner can make a world of difference in your hair care.

Frequently Asked Questions

My hair is coarse, curly and thick. Which rollers would work well for me?

Velcro rollers allow air to flow through the hair, which will help your thick hair dry faster.

My hair has split ends and is very dry and dull. What hairdressing would be best for me?

Use a moisturizing hairdressing to help replace lost oils.

How can I keep my hair smooth?

Dab pomade or styling gel just around your hairline or braids, then wrap your head with a piece of stretchy fabric or "wrap cap" for 1/2 hour.

My hair is breaking. What can I do?

Hair breaks because it is weak. Try bonding and rejuvenation treatments to add strength back into your hair.

At What Age Does Hair Texture Change?

Your hair texture can change at any age depending on its health and other factors. You may see a change in your twenties and another change in your senior years, especially if you have lightened or styled your hair consistently.

How Can I Regain My Hair Texture?

You can use bond builders and hair masks to make your hair healthier. If you want to improve the curl of your hair, use textured curl products to improve elasticity.

Why is My Hair Frizzy All of a Sudden?

Frizz can be caused by moisture in the environment and overstyling. The overuse of styling tools and products can damage the shaft of your hair and cause frizz. Try using anti-frizz products.

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