What causes static hair?

The science is simple: static electricity is created when two charged objects attract or repel each other. In this case, particles in the fibers of your clothes, your comb, your hair, hat, or scarf can all acquire a positive or negative electric charge from the friction caused by constant rubbing and contact with each other. As a result, your hair can be drawn toward these charged particles like a magnet, causing the strands to cling to your skin or your clothes.

Fine hair is naturally more prone to static, but this is a problem that can affect anyone. Winter weather is notorious for making static worse, because the low humidity in the air draws moisture out of the keratin in your hair. As a result, hair becomes drier and more prone to static.

It starts at the surface of the hair. The hair fiber is covered with scales that, when properly closed, form a smooth surface and retain moisture. When dry or damaged, the cuticle lifts, causing friction to increase and static electricity to build up. This is why static hair is almost always accompanied by frizz and a lack of shine. Static hair is often a sign that your hair needs more moisture. 

Tips for washing your hair to prevent static

As we have seen, dry hair can often lead to static. The best and simplest way to address this is by changing up your hair care routine and using the right products when washing your hair.

Start by choosing a moisturizing shampoo (preferably a professional-grade nourishing shampoo with a rich texture for dry hair), followed by a deep conditioning mask or a nourishing oil. Be sure to work the products into your roots while avoiding the ends, then rinse thoroughly with hot or warm water. Avoid cold water at all costs!

We also recommend air-drying your hair (or using an ionic hair dryer to reduce static). Washing your hair less often can be another way to let the oil produced by the sebaceous glands on your scalp keep your hair naturally hydrated.

Anti-static hairbrush: a natural solution?

At the risk of stating the obvious: brushing your hair daily with the right hairbrush can make all the difference! Using a boar bristle hairbrush is a simple but often overlooked solution. The keratin naturally present in boar bristles is identical to the composition of human hair, which means no static electricity is generated when the bristles come into contact with your hair. What’s more, Altesse Studio bristle brushes are specifically designed for daily use and suitable for all hair types.

Two factors account for this result. First, the first-cut boar bristles—the finest part of the bristle—smooth the cuticle and redistribute sebum from the roots to the ends. Second, there is the natural latex cushion, made from rubber tree sap, into which the bristle tufts are set: flexible, it absorbs the pressure of the brushing motion and helps limit static buildup, unlike a plastic base, which can actually encourage it. The handle is carved from olive wood, which also has antistatic properties. 

If your hair still tends to get static, try this clever trick to neutralize the static charge. Wet your fingertips and gently tap your hair all over before combing it. It’s a quick technique that could be your very own secret to getting rid of that annoying static for good!

Fine, thick, or curly hair: the right hair care routine for every hair type  

When it comes to static, not all hair requires the same care—or the same brush. Depending on the density and texture of your hair strands, choosing the right brush is essential for smoothing the hair without weighing it down or disrupting its shape:  

Fine to normal hair is the most prone to static, as its lightweight strands quickly build up an electrical charge and fly away at the slightest friction. It needs a brush that can distribute natural oils and lift the roots to add volume without leaving the hair looking flat. The ideal solution: the Care Brush for Fine to Normal Hair. Its first-cut boar bristles glide gently through the hair, neutralize static, and restore volume at the roots.  

Thick, wavy, or curly hair faces the same challenge: static can lead to dry strands, bulk, and frizz. Classic brushes often struggle to work through dense hair or can leave it looking fluffy. The solution: the care brush for thick or curly hair. Its specially designed bristle arrangement is engineered to work through dense or textured hair, reaching the scalp, distributing natural oils to the ends, and smoothing frizz while respecting the hair fiber’s natural movement. 

Fashion tips for getting rid of static hair

In addition to your hair care routine, your wardrobe can also be a valuable ally in the fight against static. Choosing clothes made from natural fibers will make life easier for your hair: steer clear of synthetic materials and welcome wool, silk, cashmere, and cotton fabrics into your closet. The same goes for your bedding: opt for silk or satin pillowcases that will protect your hair while you sleep!

Mistakes That Make Static Worse  

• - Blow-drying wet hair: When saturated with water, the hair shaft becomes more fragile and more prone to breakage.
• - Overusing heated styling tools: Straighteners lift the cuticle and deeply dry out the hair shaft.
• - Using plastic brushes: their bristles and synthetic base create friction and static buildup.

A brush designed to prevent it  

Since 1875, our artisans have crafted brushes in which every material is chosen for its natural properties: keratin-rich boar bristle, flexible latex, and anti-static olive wood. And it proves effective: according to our efficacy study*, 92% of users report shinier hair and 87% a more even distribution of sebum. These are two clear signs that the cuticle is closed and the hair fiber is protected from static. This is also what makes our hairbrushes the best.  

*RS Développement study, February 2022.