The winter elements can take their toll on your skin, leaving it cracked and dry. They can take their toll on your lips, leaving them crumbly and chapped. And they can take their toll on your hair, too—leaving it dry, brittle, and broken.
Of course, there are things you can do to protect yourself from the harsh weather. Today we’re going to share some tips that focus on the hair, in particular, and offer some ways to keep your hair and your scalp healthy even during the coldest time of year.
How to Keep Your Hair Healthy This Winter
Wash your hair less frequently. During a season when your hair is especially vulnerable to the elements, the last thing you want to do is strip away all the natural oils and moisturizers that keep your hair from drying up. Washing it too much will accomplish exactly that, so shy away from daily shampooing if you can; washing two or three times a week is optimal.
Turn down the temperature in your shower—at least while you shampoo. Yes, a really hot shower feels great on a cold day, but it can also dry out your hair and skin. Turning the temperature down from scalding to simply warm can make a huge difference.
Use conditioner after you shampoo. Conditioners will help your hair to stay moist, so long as you apply it to your hair, not merely to your scalp.
Allow your hair to air dry. Another way to keep your hair from drying up is to limit your use of heat-intensive styling tools, including not only curling irons but also blow dryers. The best way to dry your hair is to dab it dry with a gentle towel, and then let it air dry.
Don’t leave your home with wet hair. Whatever you do, don’t go outside until your hair is totally dry. The cold weather will make it take much longer to dry, and it will be especially vulnerable to breakage in the meantime.
Protect your hair from the harsh weather. Wearing a hat or a scarf will help you to keep your hair safe from the wind and the cold. Just make sure you keep the scarf loose enough to allow some blood flow to the scalp!
Get a winter trim! Schedule some time with your stylist. A trim is the single best thing you can do to protect against split ends—and in the winter time, that’s absolutely critical.
Of course you can learn more about protecting your hair and scalp—and discover some really great hair products—by visiting us at Mane Image. Come down for a consultation today!
