As the winter season sets in, you may begin insulating your home, tuning your heating system, and taking out your hidden sweaters, coats, and jackets. Winter is also that time of the year when most people would rather stay indoors to stay cozy and warm in front of the fireplace while sipping their hot chocolate drinks. But, as cozy as this may sound, you can’t exactly say the same when it comes to your hair.
If only your hair could talk, they’d probably tell you that winter is their least favorite season. That’s because the freezing temperature can make your locks super dry, rough, flaky, and prone to breakage. And, so, as the winter season starts to swing, it’s essential that you also plan a different hair care routine specifically for winter. This way, whether you’re strolling outside or wrapping yourself indoors, your locks will remain happy and healthy throughout the season.
Check out these eight hair care tips to keep your locks vibrant, healthy, and hydrated all winter long:
1. Moisturize Your Hair Generously
The most common hair issue during winter is hair dryness, and hair dryness can lead to other issues, like brittleness and more hair breakage. To keep your locks hydrated despite the freezing weather, you need to amp up the amount of moisture you use in your hair care routine.
Make sure to apply essential hair oils regularly, such as shea butter, tea tree, or aloe vera. It’s also a good idea to invest in suitable hair creams for your hair type to keep your hair smooth and hydrated, as well as to prevent the risk of dryness.
2. Avoid Frequent Hair Washes
Washing your hair frequently will only strip it off of its natural oils, leaving your hair dry and flakier. So, try to limit your hair washes to once a week. When washing your hair, use a mild shampoo to ensure your hair’s natural moisture remains.
3. Never Skip Conditioner
As much as possible, never skip on hair conditioners. Hair conditioners will keep your locks hydrated and well-nourished. Better yet, you can use a conditioner specifically created for the winter season.
When applying conditioner, focus more on applying it on the ends as they’re more prone to split ends and dryness. Then, you can leave it for a few minutes and allow your hair to absorb it. Once done, you can rinse it with normal water to prevent frizz and seal the moisture.
4. Never Leave Outdoors With Wet Hair
You’ve probably heard this so many times, and it still remains true up to this day. Wet hair is more prone to damage regardless of the weather, but much more during winter. If you think about it, cold, wet hair combined with freezing temperatures equals frozen hair.
With frozen hair, you can expect more split ends and breakage happening in just a short time. So, avoid leaving the house yet until you’ve completely air-dried your locks. Additionally, avoid combing your hair when it’s still wet. However, you can use a wide-toothed comb to tame and detangle your hair post-shower.
Closeup shot of amazing ginger woman with long hair wearing a knitted cap and scarf walking at the city. Space for text
5. Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling your locks, especially during the winter season, can only lead to more dryness, hair dehydration, and breakage. Instead of using a blow dryer, allow your hair to dry naturally to ensure it remains healthy and shiny. If you’re worried about being short on time during the mornings, then, try taking showers at night, so you don’t need to wash them by morning.
Moreover, the winter season is the perfect time to begin embracing your natural locks and avoiding heat styling tools. You can let it down so that your hair can also act as protection for your neck. At the same time, you’re giving your hair a break from those harsh heating tools, which will only strip off your hair’s natural shine and moisture. If you still wish to style your hair, you can explore hairdos like buns, braids, or twists.
6. Use Hair Mask
Most of you are probably familiar with face masks and how they’re essential in keeping your skin moist and hydrated. The same thing goes for your hair. Using a hair mask weekly can keep your locks soft and hydrated all year round, especially during winter. You can use the hair mask once a week after shampooing your hair. Leave it for at least 15-20 minutes to ensure the nutrients are absorbed through your hair and scalp.
7. Get Regular Trims
Trimming your hair close to the winter season is also an effective way to keep your locks looking fresh and healthy. If you intend to grow out your hair, you can cut off at least half an inch from the bottom to get rid of the existing split ends.
8. Buy A Humidifier
Since it’s cold outside, you’ll probably spend more time indoors and enjoy the heat of the fireplace or from your heating system. Unfortunately, the heat from your HVAC and fireplace can cause your indoor air to dry, and, eventually, dehydrate your locks as well. To fight off hair dehydration indoors, it’s a good idea to invest in an air humidifier.
Humidifiers will keep the indoor air moist and hydrated, and, therefore, keep your locks healthy and glossy.
Woman covering her mouth with a wool warm scarf under the snow in cold winter.
Takeaway
The winter can be a bit savage to your hair. Thankfully, going through these hair care tips and giving a little extra effort in looking after your locks can ensure your hair stays healthy and hydrated regardless of the season.
Source: https://www.salonprivemag.com/tips-to-keep-your-hair-healthy/