As it gets colder and the days get shorter, we start thinking about warm clothes, hot drinks, and... oh no, our hair gets dry and fragile. But why does winter make our hair so unhappy? Don't worry, we're here to explain why winter can be tough on hair and give you some great tips to keep your hair healthy and happy all through the winter season.
A few factors that make our hair more fragile in the winter and how to combat them:
- Dry Air: The cold, dry air outdoors and the dry heat from indoor heating systems suck moisture out of our hair, leaving it feeling parched and prone to breakage. We would recommend using hair oils to help nourish your hair during this harsh winter weather.
- Hot Styling: We tend to use heat styling tools more often in winter to combat frizz and tame flyaways, further adding to the moisture depletion. We recommend using our XL Hair Wrap in order to reduce heat usage on the hair and tame your frizz!
- Harsh Winter Elements: Wind, snow, and even the friction from hats can damage the hair cuticle, leading to split ends and frizz. We recommend using a silk lined hat or even earmuffs to keep you warm and keep your hair from becoming damaged.
- Scalp Sensitivity: Cold weather can irritate the scalp, leading to dandruff and itchiness, which can further damage the hair follicles. We advise avoiding harsh brushing or combing, therefore we recommend our Luxury Paddle Brush as it is gentle on the scalp.
Signs Your Hair Needs Winter TLC
Keep an eye out for these telltale signs that your hair needs some extra winter love:
- Dryness and lack of shine
- Excessive frizz and flyaways
- Increased breakage and split ends
- Dullness and limpness
- Scalp irritation and dandruff
Winter Haircare Heroes: Your Must-Have
Now that we understand winter's harsh effects on our hair, let's learn how to keep it healthy and happy.
- Hydration is Key: Deeply hydrating shampoos, conditioners and oils are your new best friends. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and shea butter.
- Masks and Treatments: Apply a nourishing hair mask once or twice a week to replenish moisture and repair damage. Opt for natural ingredients like avocado, coconut oil, or argan oil.
- Lay Off the Heat: Minimize the use of hot styling tools and use your XL Hair Wrap to dry your hair. If you must use heat, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand.
- Scalp Care Matters: Exfoliate your scalp regularly to remove dead skin cells and prevent dandruff. A gentle scalp scrub or apple cider vinegar rinse can do wonders.
- Silk is Your Friend: Swap out your cotton pillowcase for a satin or silk one. The smoother surface reduces friction and prevents tangles and breakage.
- Embrace Protective Styles: When venturing outdoors, wear a hat or scarf to protect your hair from the harsh elements. Braids and buns are also great options to shield your hair from wind and snow.
With a little extra attention and these winter haircare tips, you can keep your hair looking and feeling their best all season long. Remember, a little extra TLC goes a long way in keeping your mane shiny, strong, and ready to take on the winter chill!
Bonus Tip: Drink plenty of water! Staying hydrated from the inside out is essential for healthy hair and skin.