Don't let Winter get your hair down!
Winter can be a difficult time for our hair. Indoors, the heating goes up and outdoors, it goes down! Heated air in homes and offices is very drying and robs hair of precious moisture. If it's windy and cold outside, that also takes moisture out. And rain is always a challenge!
To make things worse, it's the
party season! Just when you want your hair to look it's best...
Prevention is better than cure!
At least we know winter's coming – it does every year! So it's a good idea to start early and get your hair into the best condition possible. This is easier than waiting for damage to happen and then trying to mend it.
Get a good cut, even if it's just an all-over trim. This will make sure that the hair ends are strong and more able to fight the extremes of temperature.
Get moisture back in!
Get into the habit of applying a moisturizer every day. Only apply it to the bottom half of your hair to avoid the hair on the crown getting too heavy and lank. This can be a wash and rinse conditioner, serum, leave-in or spray shine – it really doesn't matter how, just pump that moisture in!
Once a week, use a deep conditioner to really give your hair a fighting chance!
Hats
Hats are often a necessity when the cold wind blows but they aren't that great for your hair. If you often wear a hat, the sebaceous glands in the hair roots work extra hard and produce more oil. This can lead to your hair being limp and greasy. To avoid this, make sure that any hats aren't too tight. Woolen beanies are very popular but just take it off at every opportunity to let the air get to your hair. Wash or dry clean hats frequently.
Curly hair blues
Curly and wavy hair is particularly difficult to keep looking good in the winter months. It naturally tends to be dry and the temperature extremes can wreak havoc! It's also inclined to frizz in damp air and misty rain. And in a full rainstorm – oh dear!
One of the worst things for curly hair is shampooing too much and not conditioning enough. So try to get the balance right. And make sure that all your hair care products are for dry/damaged hair – it will make a big difference!
Nine tips for Winter hair
1. Use some form of conditioner every day
2. If you're using a wash in / rinse out conditioner, do a final rinse in cool or cold water. This is great for locking moisture in and giving a great shine…if a bit chilly!
3. Don't ever go outside with your hair wet. If it's very cold, you hair can actually freeze and that would cause severe damage
4. Try and cut down on heated styling appliances. Your hair is getting enough dry heat from indoor heating – give it a break!
5. When you have to use heated appliances, always use a heat protector and leave-in conditioner too.
6. Avoid having the shower too hot. It all helps to minimize the amount of heat your hair has to deal with at this time of year.
7. Use a humidifier at home and at work to stop the air from getting too dry. An easy way is to put a bowl of water over a heating vent or radiator. Add a few drops of essential oil and it'll smell lovely too! It's also going to help your skin so it's really worth doing. You'll be amazed how quickly the water disappears – that'll show you how much moisture is being lost from your hair!
8. Wear a hat, scarf or cap to protect your hair from harsh weather but make sure it's not too tight. Remove it as often as possible.
9. Now's the time to really pamper your hair. Have fun trying out different
hair masks and deep treatments. Slick on a face mask at the same time and you'll be ready for every Christmas party!