Hair Care Foundation - Hair Volume: Hair Cohesion

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More Hair Volume: Hair Cohesion

Hair cohesion is the tendency for something to stick to itself. There are two types of cohesion that can hurt hair volume:

Greasy, oily buildup - this can make hair clump together and stick to the scalp and is a reason why you want really clean hair when you start styling for long-lasting volume.

Static electricity - this can cause hair to either flyaway or stick together. If you hair clings to your neck or face after taking off your hat, you are a victim of static electricity.

Hair generates static electricity because it is triboelectric - that means, when rubbed, it can generate electrical charge. When these charges build up they cause static electricity. When opposite charges build up they attract each other and when similar charges build up they repel each other. Static electricity is worse in the winter and better in the summer. That is because the water in humid air helps dissipate static build-up on your hair. Dry winter air acts as an insulator, actually promoting the build-up of larger static charges.

Hair Science Advice

Make sure to use volumizing conditioners and styling products containing ingredients like polyquaternium, quaternium 18 and stearamidaproply dimethylamine to prevent static charge build up in fine hair. These ingredients are charged and conductive. That means they help dissipate the static build-up in your hair before it gets big enough to attack your volume.

Hair Style Advice

Prevent greasy build-up and static electricity by choosing the right styling products for your hair and using a clarifying shampoo once a week. Regular use of a hair conditioner will help prevent static - just be sure to use the right amount for your hair type.