Winter can be tough on your hair.
Cold temperatures, dry air, and indoor heating all contribute to dryness, brittleness, and frizz.
The good news? You don’t have to become a hairstylist to take care of your curls (though it does help). With a few adjustments to your hair care routine, you can keep your locks healthy, hydrated, and beautiful all season long.
Here are a couple of practical tips to protect and maintain your hair’s health throughout the winter months.
Keep Your Hair Hydrated During the Winter
Hydration is key during winter, especially since the dry air typically lacks moisture.
Switch to shampoos and conditioners designed for hydration. Look for ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or glycerin to replenish moisture. Adding a few drops of argan oil to your routine can lock in hydration and add shine. Focus on the ends, where hair tends to be driest.
For best results, treat your hair to a deep conditioning mask at least once a week. This will repair damage caused by dry air and keep your hair soft and manageable. We recommend Goldwells Rich Repair 60 second treatment.
Protect Your Hair from Cold Weather
Winter weather can be harsh on your strands, so taking protective measures is essential.
Try to wear silk or satin scarves under your hats. Cotton or wool hats can cause friction and lead to breakage. Lining your hat with silk or satin creates a barrier that keeps hair smooth.
Before stepping outside, ensure to dry your hair. Wet hair is more prone to breakage in freezing temperatures. If possible, opt for hairstyles like braids, buns, or twists to reduce exposure to cold winds and minimize tangling.
Minimize Heat Styling
Excessive heat styling during winter can exacerbate dryness and damage. Some suggestions for the winter months include:
- Air Dry When Possible: Let your hair dry naturally to reduce reliance on blow dryers and flat irons.
- Use Heat Protectants: If you need to style your hair with heat, always apply a heat protectant spray to shield it from damage. We recommend Goldwell Smoothing Serum Spray to protect hair up to 446 Fahrenheit.
- Opt for No-Heat Styles: Experiment with heat-free options like twists, braids, or buns to create waves or curls without risking dryness.
Try to Adjust the Washing Routine for Your Hair
Washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils, leading to further dryness. While this is true in any season, in winter it’s even more necessary to take precautions.
If you can, try to limit washes to two or three times a week to preserve your hair’s natural moisture. While hot water may feel comforting, it can also dry out your scalp and hair. Stick to lukewarm water to maintain hydration if you’re able.
During washes, pay special attention to your scalp too. Massage your scalp gently to promote circulation and healthy growth while using a mild, hydrating shampoo.
Trim and Treat Your Hair Regularly
Regular trims and treatments are essential for keeping your hair strong during winter.
Try to schedule trims every 6-8 weeks to prevent split ends from worsening. In between visits to the hair salon, you can strengthen your hair with protein treatments that repair damage and reduce breakage.
Special salon treatments, like hydrating masks or bond building teeatments, can also provide deeper nourishment than at-home care.
Final Thoughts
Winter doesn’t have to mean dull, brittle hair. By hydrating regularly, protecting your strands from the elements, and nourishing your body from within, you can keep your hair healthy and radiant all season long.
Combine these tips with occasional professional treatments for optimal results. With a little care and attention, your hair will shine through the winter months and beyond.
Passionate about hair? Our Hairstyling Program at Modern College provides you with the skills and qualifications you need to thrive in the beauty industry. Contact us today!