As the seasons shift and the weather cools, many of us start to notice changes in our hair. The dry air, lower humidity, and indoor heating systems can have effects on your hair, leaving it dull, dry, and prone to frizz. However, with the right care and products, you can keep your hair looking healthy, shiny, and hydrated during the drier months. Here’s how to take care of your hair when the temperature drops.
Moisturize
The key to keeping your hair healthy in the winter months is hydration. Cold air and dry indoor environments can strip your hair of natural moisture, leading to dryness, split ends, and breakage. To help this, it’s important to moisturize your hair regularly.
Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner
Choose products that are sulfate-free and designed to nourish and retain moisture. Look for ingredients like glycerin, argan oil, shea butter, and aloe vera, which help lock in moisture and soften hair. Use hydrating hair products such as Amika’s hydrating product line.
Deep condition weekly
Once a week, treat your hair to a deep conditioning mask like Innersense’s Hydrating Hair Mask. This will provide your hair with intense hydration, repairing any damage and ensuring that your hair stays soft and manageable.
Leave-in conditioner
For extra moisture, use a leave-in conditioner after your shower to keep your hair hydrated throughout the day. If you need a little more moisture, try amika’s dream routine overnight hydrating hair mask! These products work wonders for dry ends and frizz.
Avoid Hot Water
While it might be tempting to take a hot shower during the colder months, hot water can be incredibly drying for your hair and scalp. Hot water strips the natural oils from your hair, leaving it dry. Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water to help preserve moisture. You can finish with a cool rinse to help seal the hair cuticle, which adds shine and helps reduce frizz.
Limit Heat Styling
Winter is the time to give your hair a break from excessive heat styling. Blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons can further dry out your hair, leading to more split ends and frizz. If you must use styling tools, always apply a heat protectant, like Amika’s the shield, before styling to protect your hair.
Regular Trims
Dry, split ends can be one of the biggest challenges in the winter months. Even if you’re growing out your hair, regular trims are essential to maintaining healthy hair.
Straight Hair
For straight hair, we recommend booking a haircut every 6-8 weeks
Curly Hair
For our curly clients, we recommend coming in for a curly express haircut every 6-8 weeks, or a full curly haircut every 10-12 weeks.
Use a Humidifier
Dry indoor air can strip your hair of its natural moisture, especially if you’re turning on your heat in your home. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air, preventing your hair from becoming dry and brittle. Adding moisture to the air while you sleep can help keep your hair hydrated overnight. It also benefits your skin and overall health, making it a win-win.
Switch to a Silk Pillowcase
Cotton pillowcases can cause friction that leads to tangles, frizz, and even breakage. A silk or satin pillowcase creates less friction, helping to maintain moisture and reduce damage while you sleep. Not only will a silk pillowcase keep your hair looking smooth and healthy, but it also reduces morning frizz and tangles, making your daily hair routine easier.
Taking care of your hair during the drier months requires a little extra attention, but the results are worth it. By keeping your hair moisturized, protecting it from the elements, and minimizing heat styling, you can maintain healthy, hydrated strands all winter long. With these simple tips and the right products, you can enjoy soft, shiny, and manageable hair no matter what the weather throws your way.
Call or text 608-271-2771 or book online to schedule your hair appointment today!
