The temperature is changing…and so is your hair. Temperature, humidity and climate all make their marks. How it affects one head to another varies.
Winter weather is known to create static, frizz and itchy, dry scalp. Understanding the whys and hows of this winter season can help in making better choices for hair. Here are some things to think about when the temperatures turn frigid.
Indoor Heating
Some liken indoor heating to using a hair dryer. Because of the constant hot air being blown out of vents, it can take on the characteristics of a blow dryer. A constant stream of hot air can dehydrate hair if proper care is not taken. This dryness can cause hair to be frizzy.
Another thing to consider is the movement from indoor heating to outdoor cold and the fluctuation this causes. Hair is having to adapt to this constant transition and static can ensue due to the cold air and low humidity.
Diet
Keeping hair healthy will always include the foods that are eaten. During winter, salads are not usually on the menu, so it is a good idea for hot meals to include a decent amount of vegetables.
Also, some of the better winter fruits are tangerines and clementines. And, as usual, drinking lots of water can help keep hair healthy and shiny.
Products
Winter-proofing hair does not have to be a burden. A few ideas are deep conditioning, letting hair dry naturally, using products with essential fatty acids and humectants (moisturizers), and an oil “pre-poo”.
This last idea sounds out of the ordinary, but once explained it will make more hair sense. A pre-poo just means pre-shampoo. Before showering, apply a good amount of oil (Coconut, argan or grapeseed oils are just a few suggestions.) along the mid-shaft to ends of dry hair.
Allow this to sit for about 30 minutes or more (even over night with the use of a shower cap to protect the bedding). Then proceed with your normal hair cleansing routine (note: It may take more than one shampoo to get out the oil.).
The cold environment can do its worst but it does not have to be so where hair is concerned. Taking steps to counteract the cold can help hair remain healthy and vibrant.
Sometimes the effects of winter weather are unavoidable. Just remember, moisture is key for hair in this season.
Originally published January 20, 2016
Jamie
Wednesday 20th of January 2016
I always think about products for dry winter skin but it has never occurred to me to try different products for winter hair! Awesome tips!
Anna Jane
Wednesday 20th of January 2016
Awesome, Andrea! Thanks for the tips!
Ann
Wednesday 20th of January 2016
Andrea is my hair guru! Laying off the heating elements are hard in winter, but worth it to tame the frizz, especially if your hair has texture. This reminds me to keep up with weekly deep conditioning. Thanks, Andrea!