How to reduce frizz in grey hair with gentler brushing

Frizz in grey hair may become more noticeable when the hair fibre is subjected to rubbing, pulling and harsh brushing. Over time, the strand’s cuticle - the outer layer that shields the cortex - also accumulates damage. Replacing a stiff brush with a gentler tool and detangling from the ends upwards can therefore lessen tension, breakage and the flyaway appearance that can follow brushing.

Why can grey hair feel rougher and become frizzy?

Hair ages along with the rest of the body. Years of exposure to sunshine, water, hairdryers, dyes, brushing and friction lead to a wear process known as weathering, in which the fibre’s surface gradually loses some of the protection provided by the overlapping cuticle cells. As this outer surface becomes uneven, friction between individual hairs increases, leaving hair feeling rougher and harder to comb.

This does not mean that every grey hair is automatically dry or unruly. Its texture, curl pattern, natural oil production, chemical treatments and care habits all have an effect. What matters is that ageing hair can be more susceptible to mechanical damage, which makes gentle brushing particularly important.

Why should very stiff plastic brushes be avoided?

The issue is not merely that an accessory is made from plastic, but rather whether it has stiff, rough or inflexible bristles that raise friction and require force to work through tangles. Friction caused by brushing can wear down the hair cuticle, while repeated pulling makes breakage more likely. The American Academy of Dermatology advises against tugging at hair and recommends gentle detangling.

• Avoid stiff bristles that catch in knots.
• Choose wide teeth or smooth, flexible pins.
• Do not force the brush through when you feel resistance.
• Separate long or thick hair into smaller sections.
• Use conditioning products when needed to reduce friction.

Why does detangling from the ends to the roots matter?

Beginning at the roots pushes several knots down towards the ends at once. Once these tangles gather together, more force is needed to pass a comb through them, increasing stress on the fibre. The reverse method deals with the smaller tangles at the ends first, allowing you to work gradually upwards towards the scalp. Haircare guidance specifically recommends detangling gently from the ends upwards.

For grey hair, the advantage is reduced mechanical stress rather than any change to its pigmentation or internal structure. Less pulling means fewer chances for fibres to snap and for a cuticle already exposed for years to environmental factors, brushing and other cosmetic processes to become worn.

Which comb or brush helps control frizz more effectively?

Wide-tooth combs and tools with flexible bristles can release knots with less force. Shape and softness are more important than an absolute rule about material: some synthetic brushes are designed to bend when they meet resistance. The aim is to reduce friction between the tool and the hair surface, helping to protect the cuticle scales.

• Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle with less tension.
• Select a brush with smooth, flexible pins and no tips that snag hair.
• Apply conditioner to improve slip between fibres.
• Make short strokes through the ends before moving along the lengths.
• Apply minimal pressure whenever you encounter a stubborn knot.

How can you protect the cuticle and reduce flyaways in grey hair?

Managing frizz involves limiting the combined damage experienced by the fibre. Conditioners reduce friction between hairs and lower the force needed when combing, while restricting excessive heat, repeated chemical treatments and aggressive brushing helps maintain the hair’s surface. Protection from prolonged sun exposure also matters, as ultraviolet radiation contributes to fibre damage.

For grey hair that tangles easily, the simplest routine starts with how it is combed: hold the section, loosen knots at the ends first, then move upwards slowly rather than dragging the tool down from the roots. With less tension and friction on the cuticle, there is less breakage and disruption to the strand’s surface - two factors directly associated with a rough, flyaway appearance after brushing.