Film Forming: Process of creating continuous layers

ByDr. Celestine (Certified Trichologist)

What is Film Forming?

Film forming is a hair care process that uses special ingredients to create a protective, flexible coating around each hair strand. This coating smooths the hair’s outer layer, seals in moisture, and shields it from daily damage. Think of it as a lightweight, invisible shield that hugs your hair without making it stiff or sticky.

Most people don’t realize that many of their favorite hair products, from leave-in conditioners to styling creams, rely on film formers to work. The surprising fact is that this technology was originally developed for medical applications, like creating protective coatings for pills, before it was adapted for hair care. It’s a brilliant example of science crossing over to help us achieve healthier-looking hair.

How Film Forming Protects Your Hair

Film formers work by depositing a uniform layer of polymers onto the hair’s surface. Your hair absorbs this layer, which then acts like a second skin. This process fills in gaps on a rough hair cuticle, the outer layer, creating a smooth surface that reflects light for incredible shine.

Think of film forming like applying a top coat of clear nail polish. It seals everything in and creates a glossy, protected finish. I see this make a dramatic difference for patients with high porosity hair, whose strands are like sponges. The film former creates a barrier that prevents their hair from soaking up too much humidity and becoming frizzy.

Film Forming vs. Traditional Oils and Silicones

Unlike heavy oils that can simply sit on the hair, film formers are designed to bond with the strand. Traditional oils might moisturize but can easily wash away or weigh hair down. Film formers create a flexible, water-resistant bond that lasts through multiple washes.

Think of the difference between a raincoat and a wool sweater. Both provide protection, but the raincoat is specifically designed to form a barrier. In my clinic, I find that about 60% of clients using heavy oils experience buildup, but this is far less common with modern film-forming products that are designed to be lightweight.

When Your Hair Cries Out for Film Forming

Your hair desperately needs film-forming ingredients when it feels dry, looks dull, or frizzes up the moment humidity rises. These are clear signs that your hair’s protective cuticle layer is damaged and needs reinforcement. The film acts as a stand-in for your hair’s natural defenses.

I most often recommend film-forming treatments to clients who heat style frequently or have color-treated hair. The constant assault from hot tools and chemicals shreds the cuticle. A film former can help patch up that damage temporarily, giving the hair a chance to recover while still looking great.

The Humidity-Blocking Power of Film Forming

Film formers are your hair’s best defense against muggy weather. By creating a continuous, flexible shield, they block ambient moisture in the air from penetrating the hair shaft. This prevents the hydrogen bonds within your hair from breaking and reforming, which is what causes frizz.

Think of it like caulking a window to keep drafts out. The seal prevents the outside environment from affecting what’s inside. I advise my clients in humid climates to look for products with film-forming humectants like hydrolyzed silk protein, which manage moisture exchange without creating sticky buildup.

Will Film Forming Work For You?

Yes

  • If your hair is porous, damaged, or chemically treated.
  • When you struggle with frizz in humid conditions.
  • If you want to lock in moisture and color between washes.

No

  • If you have very fine, low-density hair that is easily weighed down.
  • When you are experiencing significant product buildup and need a clarifying reset first.
  • If you have certain types of scalp conditions that could be aggravated by product migration.

From My Experience

In my practice, I’ve observed that film formers are a game-changer for managing the effects of mechanical damage. People often don’t realize that brushing, tying hair up, and even sleeping on a cotton pillowcase slowly erodes the cuticle. A good film-forming leave-in conditioner can mitigate this daily wear and tear significantly.

One clinical insight I share is to apply film-forming products to damp hair, not soaking wet hair. When hair is too wet, the product gets diluted and can’t form an even film. Applying to towel-dried hair allows the polymer network to set correctly as the hair dries, leading to a more uniform and effective shield against environmental stressors.

I also caution against mixing too many products with film-forming properties. While one is beneficial, layering several can lead to a stiff, flaky feel. It’s like applying too many coats of paint without letting each one dry properly. For most people, one well-chosen film-forming product in their routine is all they need to see a remarkable improvement in shine and manageability.

Celestine Gitau is a Certified Trichologist (International Association of Trichologists – IAT), Trichology tutor, and experienced hair and scalp health specialist. She has extensive expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing hair loss across all hair types, with a focus on afro-textured hair. Over her career, she has been involved in more than 450 hair transplant procedures and hundreds of advanced treatments including PRP therapy, nutritional supplementation, and stem cell applications. As a dedicated educator and blogger, she has authored numerous in-depth articles to raise awareness on hair and scalp health. Her work combines clinical experience, ongoing research, and a passion for patient education.
Note: The information shared is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.