Why Does My Hair Go Frizzy In Autumn And How Can I Tame It?

As the damper and cooler days of autumn arrive, many of us notice a change in our hair. Suddenly, the smoothness and shine we enjoyed in summer can start to feel rougher, drier, and more prone to frizz. 

If you’ve ever wondered why your hair seems to misbehave in autumn (and what to do about it), you’re not alone. 

Here’s a look at the science behind frizz, the impact of seasonal changes, and the natural, vegan-friendly ways to restore calm and shine to your hair.

Why does hair frizz more in autumn?

Frizz happens when the outer layer of your hair, called the cuticle, lifts up and lets moisture in. When hair absorbs water from the air, it swells, causing those uneven, fluffy strands we know as frizz.

In autumn, several factors combine to make frizz worse:

• Moisture in the air: Rain and damp weather mean higher humidity, which encourages hair cuticles to open.

• Wind exposure: Blustery days roughen up the cuticle, leading to tangles and breakage.

• Indoor heating: Moving between cold air outside and dry, heated environments inside dehydrates your hair, making it more prone to static and flyaways.

• Seasonal dryness: Just as your skin feels tighter in autumn, your scalp and hair lose natural oils more quickly, reducing natural protection.

Is frizz a sign of unhealthy hair?

Not necessarily. Frizz is often more about the environment than your hair’s health. However, dry, porous, or damaged hair tends to frizz more because its cuticles are already raised and uneven. If your hair is colour-treated, heat-styled, or naturally curly, you may find autumn particularly challenging.

Can natural hair products really help with frizz?

Yes. Plant-based, cruelty-free haircare often avoids harsh sulphates, silicones, and alcohols that strip or coat the hair in ways that worsen frizz over time. Instead, natural ingredients focus on hydration, nourishment, and protection, helping hair behave better without relying on quick fixes.

Look out for these autumn-friendly ingredients:

• Shea butter & coconut oil: Deeply moisturising and excellent for sealing the cuticle.

• Aloe vera: Lightweight hydration that calms flyaways.

• Argan oil: Rich in vitamin E, this “liquid gold” smooths and adds shine.

• Mumuru butter: Intensive nourishing for very dry, frizzy or curly hair. 

How can I tame autumn frizz naturally?

Here are some effective, cruelty-free strategies to keep frizz under control:

Switch to a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo

Traditional shampoos often contain sulphates, which strip hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to frizz. A plant-based alternative cleanses without harshness, helping your scalp stay balanced and your strands stay hydrated.

Condition more deeply

In autumn, a lightweight summer conditioner may no longer be enough. Swap it for a richer, natural conditioner packed with plant oils and nourishing butters such as murmuru. For an extra boost, add a weekly deep conditioning mask to lock in moisture.

Protect your hair from the elements

Wearing a silk or satin-lined hat or scarf helps prevent wind and rain from roughing up your hair. Unlike wool, which can snag, these smoother fabrics reduce friction and static.

Reduce heat styling

While it’s tempting to blow-dry or straighten frizz away, too much heat damages the cuticle, creating a cycle of dryness and more frizz. If you do use heat, always apply a natural heat protectant spray first.

Air-dry the smart way

Instead of rubbing your hair with a towel, blot gently with a microfiber towel or an old cotton T-shirt. This minimises friction and frizz.

Feed your hair from within

Nutrition plays a big role in hair health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like flaxseeds and walnuts), zinc (pumpkin seeds), and vitamins A, C, and E support stronger, smoother strands.

What about styling tips for frizz control?

Autumn is the perfect time to embrace low-maintenance, frizz-friendly hairstyles:

• Loose braids and buns protect hair from wind damage.

• Defined curls or waves can look beautiful with the help of natural curl creams.

• Sleek ponytails can be tamed with a touch of plant-based styling cream to smooth edges.

Frizz in autumn is very common: it’s simply your hair reacting to the season’s mix of damp air, wind, and indoor heating. By switching to gentle, plant-based products and adopting protective habits, you can calm the fluff and restore your hair’s natural shine.