Hey there, lovely readers! Winter is here, and it’s time to bundle up in cozy sweaters, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy the festive season. But as we dive into the winter wonderland, it’s essential to take good care of our hair. Cold, dry air and the constant switch between indoor heating and outdoor cold is not exactly the best environment for our hair. So, today, in this blog post, I’m here to share some simple yet effective tips on how to keep your hair healthy this winter.
- Use Hydrating Masks and Deep Conditioners
- Use a Microfiber Towel
- Be Gentle with Putting on Hats and Beanies
- Oil Your Hair and Ends Before You Wash It
- Keep Your Hair in Protective Hairstyles
- Brush from the Bottom to the Top
- Use a Dry Conditioner or Hydrating Spray
- Dry Your Hair Completely
- Don’t Wash Your Hair with Hot Water
- Conclusion
Use Hydrating Masks and Deep Conditioners
Cold winter air and dry indoor heating can strip your hair of its natural moisture, leaving it dry and prone to frizz and static. To combat this, start by incorporating hydrating hair masks or deep conditioners into your routine. Opt for masks that are rich in natural oils, such as argan, coconut, or olive oil, which can deeply hydrate and nourish your hair. Even if you have fine hair, like myself, I think this is a must. I love using ones with thicker consistencies so I know my hair is getting as much nourishment as possible. Use these masks once a week, or whenever your hair feels dry, to restore your hair’s natural moisture balance and keep frizz and static at bay.
Use a Microfiber Towel
Regular towels can cause friction and lead to hair breakage. If you look closely, you will see that regular towels are made with tiny loops that your hair can get stuck in. Instead, use a microfiber towel to gently pat your hair dry after washing. I like keeping my hair wrapped up in one for 15-20 minutes to draw out all the excess water. Microfiber towels are much gentler on your hair and help reduce frizz and breakage. They also absorb moisture more efficiently, so your hair dries faster.
Be Gentle with Putting on Hats and Beanies
As temperatures drop, it’s tempting to bundle up with cute hats and beanies. However, these accessories can lead to hair breakage and static if you’re not careful. To prevent this, be gentle when putting on and taking off your headwear. Avoid pulling or tugging on your hair, and opt for silk or satin-lined caps to reduce friction and minimize static buildup. Be especially cautious around the hairline and the nape of your neck, as these areas are particularly susceptible to damage. Whenever you wear a hat, make sure there is not any tension on the strands from being pulled down.
Oil Your Hair and Ends Before You Wash It
Before jumping into the shower, give your hair a little pre-wash TLC by applying a few drops of oil to your hair and ends. Oiling your hair provides deep nourishment for your scalp and ends, and it helps to protect your strands from being over-stripped in the shower. The oils help to create a protective barrier that reduces static and locks in moisture. You can use various oils like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil for this purpose. You can try some ayurvedic hair oils as well for even better results. Gently massage the oil into your scalp for at least 5 minutes, and let it sit in your hair for at least 20 minutes before washing it out. Just remember to rinse thoroughly during your shower to avoid any greasiness.
{Related Post: An Ultimate Guide to Ayurvedic Ingredients for Hair Growth}
Keep Your Hair in Protective Hairstyles
Wind can be your hair’s worst enemy during winter. It tangles your hair and leaves it looking like a mess. To avoid this, consider keeping your hair braided or in an updo, especially on windy days. I personally prefer braids whenever I wear a hat as well, to reduce the amount of friction on the strands. Braids and updos can help protect your hair from the harsh elements and reduce tangling. So rather than keeping your hair down, tie it up into protective hairstyles whenever you can.
Brush from the Bottom to the Top
Brushing your hair is an essential part of any hair care routine, but it’s crucial to do it correctly, especially in the winter. Your hair is bound to be more tangly with all the static, frizz, and windy weather. Start by gently detangling the ends of your hair and work your way up towards the roots. This approach prevents unnecessary breakage and minimizes the stress on your hair. You’ll probably notice that there is less tension on the strands, and that it hurts less too. Consider using a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush for best results as opposed to a boar bristle or wooden brush which can cause more tension on the hair because of their smoothing properties.
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Use a Dry Conditioner or Hydrating Spray
Dry ends are a common winter hair issue. Typically in the winter we need to wash our hair less and the oils aren’t reading our mid-lengths and ends. While the top of our hair is protected with caps, the rest of the strands are still prone to dryness and breakage. Combat this issue by using a dry conditioner or a hydrating leave-in spray in between washes. These products are perfect for adding moisture to your hair, taming frizz, and giving your locks a healthy shine. I typically spray a leave in conditioner on damp hair, but will touch up through the week on the ends whenever they feel dry. Dry conditioners are great for this as well, especially when you still have a few days until wash day. Simply spray it on your hair, focusing on the ends, and let the product work its magic.
Dry Your Hair Completely
Leaving your hair wet in cold weather can lead to damage and breakage, not to mention the chilly discomfort. Make sure your hair is completely dry before heading out to avoid excess friction and damage to the hair. Not to mention that, if it is cold enough, your hair might turn into icicles (trust me it’s happened before).
If you are washing your hair at night, make sure it is completely dry as well. Not drying your hair can cause excessive breakage with all the friction from hats and pillows alike. The dry environment from the heater being on will also do your hair no good. If you’re in a hurry, consider using a blow dryer which will actually cause much less damage then keeping your hair wet in these situations. Just make sure to use some heat protectant and try to minimize the tangles that can happen from blow drying.
{Related Post: 9 Ways to Manage Your Greasy, Thin, And Fine Hair}
Don’t Wash Your Hair with Hot Water
While a hot shower can be incredibly tempting on a cold winter day, it’s not your hair’s best friend. Hot water can strip your hair of its natural oils and leave it dry and frizzy, leading to even more damage. Instead, opt for lukewarm or cool water when washing your hair. Don’t worry, you can still take your hot showers; just turn down the temperature whenever your hair is getting in direct contact with the water. This will help retain moisture and leave your hair looking healthy and vibrant. You will notice that your hair is shinier and softer too.
Conclusion
In conclusion, now you know how to keep your hair healthy this winter! It is all about hydration, protection, and a little extra TLC. You want to reduce as much tension and stress on the hair strands as you can. By following these tips and tricks, you can enjoy the season while keeping your hair looking its best. Remember to use hydrating masks, pre-wash oil treatments, be gentle with your headwear, keep your hair in protective hairstyles, and follow the rest of the other tips to keep your strands happy and healthy. Stay warm and happy winter!
With love,
Aditi <3
Aditi Rani – Figuring Out Life in Your Twenties
*Disclaimer: This is not professional advice. Some links are affiliate. By clicking and/or purchasing, I may receive a commission. It does not alter the price or change your buyer experience.