Shampooing

• Washing your hair too often can strip the natural oils from your hair, leaving it looking dry and dull. Some people have more natural oils in their hair than others, so it is important to find a washing routine that works for you. If your hair feels oily by the end of the day, you may choose to wash it daily. However, if your hair feels dry when you wash it every day, try washing it every other day. Talk to your hair dresser about choosing a shampoo and conditioner that works with your hair type.
  
  

Styling

• Overstyling your hair can cause dryness. Blow drying your hair can be especially damaging, so let your hair air dry whenever possible, or use your hair dryer on the lowest heat setting. Curling irons and flat irons can also cause damage. To counteract this damage, use hair gels, creams and other styling products that protect hair from heat and damage before styling, recommends the website World of Hair. Avoid styling products that contain alcohol, which will dry your hair. Coloring and bleaching hair will also cause dryness and damage, as will perms.
  
  

Swimming

• Swimming in pools can lead to dry hair. Pools contain chlorine, which removes the natural oils in the hair that keep it hydrated and protected. Swimming in pools frequently can leave hair dry, lank and dull. Specially formulated shampoos for swimmers protect hair from the effects of chlorine but may leave hair feeling heavy, according to the website Go Ask Alice. To reduce chlorine damage, wash your hair as soon as possible after swimming. Avoid activities that will cause further dryness and damage, such as blow drying, coloring your hair or perms.
  
  

Outdoor Activities

• The hot sun or wind can cause dryness and damage. Cover your hair with a hat or scarf whenever you will be outside for long periods of time. Many styling products contain sunscreens that will protect hair from the sun's damaging UV rays.