Whether you love playing in the snow or prefer to cuddle under a blanket with a cup of hot cocoa, winter can be hard on your hair. Cold winter temperatures and dry indoor hair can be brutal on all hair textures and types.
Like your skin, your scalp and hair need protection from the cold to stay healthy. Protecting your locks from frigid air, whipping winds, static electricity, and dry indoor heat will ensure you are ready to show off your lovely locks when winter is finally over!
Cover Your Head
Winter is not the time to be worried about "hat hair." Covering your head during cold weather reduces the heat your body loses and shields your scalp and hair from dry air, wind, snow, and rain. Exposure to the harsh winter elements can dry your hair and make it more prone to damage. Choose a hat lined with silk or satin to help prevent damage, as wool, cotton, and some synthetic fabrics can also cause breakage.
Tame Static Electricity
Fine, floating strands of hair charged with static electricity are common in winter. Static electricity is a sign of dryness; the best way to combat it is by keeping your hair hydrated. A dry oil spray or a leave-in conditioner can help lock in moisture and help prevent frizzy hair due to static electricity.
Avoid Washing Your Hair in Hot Water.
While a nice, hot shower might be just what you need to take the chill off when the temperatures drop, it can damage your hair. Hot water removes moisture from your hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and more prone to damage. Instead of using hot water, lower the temperature and wash your hair in lukewarm water, then rinse in cool water.
Avoid Hot Styling Tools
Hot styling tools are integral to many people's hair care routines but can damage your hair. Blow drying can be a timesaver, but it draws moisture from your hair and increases the risk of breakage. Allowing your hair to dry naturally without heat will help keep your hair shiny and healthy.
Your hair is delicate in the winter months, and using hot styling tools amplifies the issue by removing more moisture from your strands. Rather than using straightening or curling tools in the winter, explore some new hairstyles such as twists, braids, and buns.
Never Go Out in the Cold With Wet Hair
Your hair is weakest and most vulnerable to damage when it is wet. Your hair is porous and absorbs water when you shampoo. Stepping outside into frigid weather can cause your hair to freeze and break. While it's always best to air dry your hair, it's better to blow dry it than go outdoors with wet hair.
Avoid Washing Your Hair Too Often
If you are someone who washes your hair every day, it may be time to change your hair care routine. Washing your hair too often will strip away the natural oils that keep your hair and scalp moisturized and protected.
Over washing your hair can be especially harmful in the winter when it needs all the protection it can get. Try extending the time between your washes. If you usually wash your hair daily, try washing it every other day, and if it's still very dry, try every three days.
Get Help From the Professionals
No matter the type or texture of your hair, keeping it healthy and looking fabulous can be challenging during the winter. While a few general tips can help protect your hair, everyone's scalp and hair are unique.
At Mane Image, we take pride in helping our clients care for every aspect of their scalp and hair. Our experienced professionals can provide the guidance you need to keep your hair looking its best this winter and year-round. Contact us today and schedule your FREE initial consultation to learn more ways to take better care of your hair this winter.
