Hair doesn't directly affect humidity in the environment. Rather, humidity affects hair. Specifically, high humidity leads to frizz.
Here's a breakdown:
-
Hair and Moisture: Hair is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs and releases moisture from its surroundings.
-
Humidity's Role: When humidity is high, there's more moisture in the air. This excess moisture can penetrate the hair shaft.
-
The Frizz Factor: The hair shaft is composed of proteins. When water molecules from the humid air enter the hair strand, they bind to these proteins. This process causes the hair to swell. Since hair isn't uniform in damage or porosity, some sections absorb more moisture than others. This uneven swelling leads to the hair cuticle becoming rough and lifting, resulting in frizz.
-
Loss of Style: The influx of water molecules also disrupts the hydrogen bonds that hold your hair in its styled shape (e.g., straight, curled). Consequently, hair reverts to its natural state.
In short, hair doesn't alter the humidity level; instead, the moisture content in the air significantly influences the behavior and appearance of your hair, primarily through causing frizz and loss of styled shape.
