Drying Alcohols

• There are several alcohols, like isopropyl and ethanol, that can be drying for your hair You can find them used commonly in such products as hair coloring and hairspray or hair gel. Since the alcohol in these products can sap your hair of moisture, the ends of the hair can break more easily.
  
  

Moisturizing Alcohols

• Just as some alcohols dry hair out, others actually hydrate your hair to make it more manageable. These types are called fatty alcohols, such as stearyl and cetyl. They are often found in conditioners. Some coat the shaft of the hair, which makes it easier to detangle your hair. Hair products with fatty alcohols are unlikely to cause breakage; in fact, they act to protect the hair.
  
  

Considerations

• From time to time, you may need to use hair products with drying alcohols in them. Use such products in moderation and condition your hair to help counteract the drying effects. If you use hair spray, apply the spray from a distance rather than close to the head.