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Home > Skin & Beauty > Hair & Scalp > Dull Hair: Causes, Treatment, and Complications

Dull Hair: Causes, Treatment, and Complications

January 6, 2021 - Updated on August 18, 2021
4 min read
By Akanksha Shah Sanghvi, MD, Clinical Dermatology

In this article:

  • Causes of Dull Hair
  • Medical Treatment for Dull Hair
  • Diagnosing the Cause of Dull Hair
  • Risk Factors for Dull Hair
  • Complications of Dull Hair
  • When to See a Doctor
  • Final Word

Smooth, shiny hair is often considered by society as symbolic of attractiveness and good health. Therefore, having dull hair can be undesirable and can even be a cause of low self-confidence in people.

smooth and shiny hair

Hair appears shiny and moist due to the natural oils produced by the sebaceous glands in the hair follicles.

If the hair is stripped of these natural oils or the production of sebum is reduced, the hair becomes dry and dull. Also, the UV reflective property of the oil layer is missing in dull hair, making it prone to sun damage.

Causes of Dull Hair

The outer layer of the hair is coated with oil, giving it a shiny and lustrous appearance. However, various factors can affect the protective oil layer, including:

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  • Malnutrition due to anorexia
  • Nutritional deficiencies such as those of zinc, copper, biotin, folate, or vitamins A, C, and E (1)(2)
  • Hypothyroidism (3)
  • Hypoparathyroidism
  • Excessive exposure to wind and the sun (1)
  • Genetic disorders such as Cushing syndrome and Menkes syndrome
  • Lack of blood flow to the scalp
  • Use of harmful products such as hair mousse, bleach, dyes, gels, (4) and products containing propyl, isopropyl, or propanol alcohol
  • Improper hair care, including excessive shampooing and lack of conditioning (4)
  • Psychological stress
  • Use of styling tools such as straighteners and curlers or regular use of hair dryers (5)
  • Rough handling of hair, including towel rubbing or combing when wet
  • Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy

Medical Treatment for Dull Hair

treatment options for dull hair

Most cases of dull hair result from exposure to the harsh environment and performing daily activities that are damaging to the hair such as the use of hair tools or hair products containing harmful chemicals.

Simple changes in your lifestyle and opting for a healthy hair care routine can help in regaining hair health.

Medical treatment is only required if dull hair is the effect of an underlying medical condition, such as Cushing syndrome. In such a case, the doctor will assess the underlying problem and prescribe the appropriate treatment accordingly.

Diagnosing the Cause of Dull Hair

Although dull hair is generally caused by improper care, the doctor may conduct a physical examination of your scalp and hair to identify an underlying medical problem, if any.

If the doctor suspects a problem, he may order the following tests:

  • Blood pressure test
  • Blood tests
  • Urine tests

Risk Factors for Dull Hair

The following factors can contribute to increased susceptibly to dull hair:

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  • Old age
  • Frequent hair washing with hot water
  • Swimming in chlorine water
  • Hot, dry climate
  • Using high-mineral solutions for washing the hair
  • Smoking (1)

Complications of Dull Hair

complications of dull hair

Since dull hair results from a lack of natural oils, it lacks lubrication. Dryness of the hair, along with the improper functioning of sebaceous glands, can result in:

  • Dry scalp
  • Peeling and shedding of the scalp
  • Fungal infections
  • Brittle hair
  • Hair loss
  • Hair odor
  • Photooxidation from the sun rays, resulting in protein and color loss (6)(7)

When to See a Doctor

It is advised to change your hair care routine and observe self-care measures, such as avoiding the use of styling tools, to help bring back the luster in your hair. However, if home-based interventions fail to work and you are bothered by the dull appearance of your hair, you must contact a doctor.

This is important as persistently dry hair that doesn’t respond to self-care can indicate an underlying medical condition. Moreover, you must consult a doctor if you experience hair loss along with the dullness.

What you may ask your doctor
  • Is my hair dullness a side effect of medication?
  • What tests do I need to get done?
  • Do I require medications to help treat my condition?
  • What measures can I take to bring back the shine to my hair?
What your doctor may ask you
  • When did you first notice that your hair is becoming dull?
  • Do you use any hair styling tools or products?
  • Have you been diagnosed with allergies or nutritional deficiencies?
  • How often do you wash and condition your hair?

Final Word

Smooth, shiny, and lustrous hair is desired by all. However, various everyday factors can leave your hair dull and dry looking. If you have dull hair, try switching your hair care products and routine. Avoid the use of harsh chemicals and styling tools on the hair, and quit smoking.

If your hair stays dull even after proper care, consult a doctor as this may be indicative of an underlying medical condition.

Continue Reading Continue Reading8 Home Remedies for Shiny and Smooth Hair
References
  1. RM; T. Effect of ultraviolet radiation, smoking and nutrition on hair. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26370649/. Published 2015.
  2. Y; GLJL. Nutrition and hair. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20620758/. Published 2010.
  3. Safer JD. Thyroid hormone action on skin. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3219173/. Published July 2011.
  4. D’Souza P, Rathi SK. Shampoo and Conditioners: What a Dermatologist Should Know? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4458934/. Published 2015.
  5. Lee Y, Kim Y-D, Hyun H-J, Pi L-Q, Jin X, Lee W-S. Hair shaft damage from heat and drying time of hair dryer. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3229938/. Published November 2011.
  6. Sebetić K; Sjerobabski Masnec I; Cavka V; Biljan D; Krolo I; UV damage of the hair. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19138021/. Published 2008.
  7. Lee W-S. Photoaggravation of hair aging. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2938585/. Published July 2009.
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