Dry hair is hair that does not have enough moisture and oil to maintain its normal sheen and texture.

Dry hair may result from too much washing, harsh detergents, a dry environment, inadequate diet, or underlying conditions, such as those due to malnutrition. (For example, kwashiorkor)

Dry, brittle hair may be a symptom of metabolic diseases such as hypothyroidism and Menkes kinky hair syndrome.

• Excessive washing, harsh detergents or alcohols, excessive blow-drying
• Environmental dryness
• Anorexia nervosa
• Malnutrition
• Hypothyroidism
• Hypoparathyroidism

• Shampoo less frequently -- perhaps only once or twice a week
• Add conditioners
• Avoid blow drying and harsh styling products

Call your health care provider if:

• Your hair does not improve with gentle treatment
• You have hair loss
• You have any other unexplained symptoms

Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may ask the following questions:

• Has your hair always been slightly dry?
• When did the unusual hair dryness first start?
• Is it always present, or is it off and on?
• What are your eating habits?
• What kind of shampoo is used?
• How often do you wash your hair?
• Do you use a conditioner? What type?
• How do you normally style the hair?
• Do you use a hair dryer? What type? How often?
• What other symptoms are also present?

• Examination of the hair under the microscope
• Blood tests