As the cold winter months settle in, your hair is likely to suffer the consequences of the chill in the air, leaving it dry, brittle, and frizzy. Whether you’re dealing with split ends, static, or a lack of moisture, winter requires a change in your hair care routine.
Winter Hair Care
The winter temperature drop, combined with the drying effects of indoor heating, creates a perfect storm for damaged locks.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the best winter hair care tips to keep your mane healthy, hydrated, and full of life.
Hydration is Key
During winter, the air holds less humidity, which means less moisture for your hair and scalp.
Coupled with the use of indoor heating, your hair’s natural oils evaporate faster, leading to dry, lifeless strands. To combat this, hydration should be your top priority.
Opt for shampoos and conditioners specifically designed to provide deep moisture. Look for ingredients like:
Hyaluronic Acid: Known for its incredible hydrating properties, it helps lock moisture into the hair.
Glycerin: A humectant that draws moisture from the air into your hair.
Natural Oils: Argan oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil help to restore and seal moisture.
In addition to store-bought products, you can turn to natural oils like coconut, olive, or avocado oil for a weekly deep-conditioning treatment.
These oils penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep hydration and softness. You might have to try several oils and different combinations to find what works for your hair.
Avoid Over-Washing
In winter, washing your hair too frequently strips it of natural oils that are essential for maintaining moisture. This makes your hair prone to dryness and breakage.
Use Dry Shampoo: On days between washes, dry shampoo can absorb excess oil while giving your roots a fresh lift.
Extend Wash Days: Train your hair to go longer between washes by slowly increasing the time between shampoos.
Gentle Cleansing: When you do wash, use sulfate-free shampoos that cleanse without stripping moisture.
Scalp Care: A dry scalp is common in winter, leading to flaking and irritation. Use a gentle, hydrating scalp scrub or serum to maintain moisture balance, and avoid scratching your scalp, which can worsen dryness.
Choose Protective Hairstyles
Cold winds and dry air can wreak havoc on your hair. Protective hairstyles reduce your hair’s exposure to these harsh elements, minimizing friction and breakage.
Buns and Twists: Low buns and twist styles tuck the ends of your hair, protecting them from damage.
Pineapple Updo: For those with curly hair, this high, loose bun on top of the head preserves curl patterns and prevents friction.
Braids: Whether you choose French braids, fishtails, or box braids, these styles keep your hair secure and protected.
Protective Gear: Invest in accessories like silk-lined hats or scarves to cover your hair when you step outside.
Traditional wool hats can cause friction, leading to breakage. Silk or satin materials minimize static and retain moisture.
Minimize Heat Styling
In colder months, hair is already dehydrated, and excessive heat styling (blow-drying, curling, straightening) can exacerbate the issue by weakening the hair cuticle, leading to breakage and split ends.
Air Drying: Whenever possible, let your hair air dry instead of using a blow dryer. If you must use heat, dry it on the lowest setting.
Low-Heat Tools: If you rely on styling tools, switch to lower-heat settings, and always apply a heat protectant.
Heatless Curls: Try overnight methods like braiding your hair, using curlers, or twisting it into a bun for waves without damage.
If You Must Heat Style: Using a heat protectant spray is non-negotiable. These sprays act as a barrier, preventing direct heat from frying your strands.
Choose products with ingredients like silicone and Argan oil to protect and nourish.
Use a Humidifier
Indoor heating, while cozy, strips moisture from the air and leaves your hair dry and more prone to static.
Prolonged exposure to heated indoor air can suck the life out of your locks.
Adding a humidifier to your living space restores moisture in the air, which benefits both your skin and hair.
It helps to maintain your hair’s hydration and prevent excessive dryness.
Set up a humidifier in rooms where you spend the most time, especially the bedroom, so your hair can benefit overnight. Keep the humidity level around 40-60% for optimal results.
Trim Regularly
Cold weather can lead to more split ends, as dry hair is more prone to breakage. Regular trims help maintain your hair’s strength and prevent damage from progressing up the hair shaft.
Aim for a trim every 6-8 weeks during the winter months to keep your ends healthy and prevent them from becoming dry and frayed.
Deep Conditioning Treatments
Winter is the time to double up on deep conditioning treatments. These treatments help to restore moisture levels and repair any damage caused by dry, cold air.
Look for deep conditioners and hair masks packed with nourishing ingredients like:
- Shea Butter: Adds moisture and seals it in.
- Keratin: Strengthens and repairs damaged hair.
- Avocado Oil: Packed with fatty acids that hydrate the hair.
DIY Treatments
Homemade hair masks can be just as effective. Here are a few options:
Avocado & Olive Oil Mask: Mash one ripe avocado and mix it with a tablespoon of olive oil. Apply it to your hair for 30 minutes before washing it out. Check out these avocado hair mask recipes
Honey & Yogurt Mask: Honey is a natural humectant, while yogurt provides moisture and shine. Mix them together for a deep-conditioning treatment. Check out these honey hair mask recipes.
Watch Your Diet
What you eat can have a significant impact on your hair health. Ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals, such as:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish like salmon, these help nourish hair follicles and promote a healthy scalp.
Biotin (Vitamin B7): Supports hair strength and growth.
Vitamin E: An antioxidant that protects against environmental damage.
Winter Foods for Hair Health
Incorporate hair-nourishing foods into your winter diet, such as:
- Nuts and Seeds: Rich in healthy fats and vitamins.
- Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale are packed with iron and vitamins A and C.
- Eggs: Full of protein and biotin, essential for strong hair.
Final Thoughts
Winter can be tough on your hair, but with a few adjustments to your routine, you can maintain its health and shine throughout the season.
I hope this post helps you keep your hair healthy this winter. If you love posts on haircare and skincare subscribe to our mailing list and also follow me @Beautythings on Pinterest.
