Winter is a festive time. From the ski slopes to the ice rink, to the holiday parties and family traditions, winter is a well-loved season. For your hair, on the other hand, winter can take its toll.
Cold air, snow, ice, rain, and dry air from indoor heating can do a real number on the health of your hair, and leave your style looking flat if you don’t take proper precautions.
In this article, we will discuss a few ways that you can save your hair from winter damage. Keep reading to find out more.
1. Wash Hair Less Often
Natural oils provide a protective layer between the scalp and hair. If you over wash your hair during winter, your hair can become dehydrated and weaken. It is recommended that you do not wash your hair more often than every 3 days during winter.
You can prevent your hair from becoming greasy between washes by using a dry shampoo to deodorize and absorb oils.
2. Blow Dry Your Hair
If you already blow dry your hair regularly, good for you. If you don’t, you should start, at least during winter. The last thing you want to do is to go out into the elements with even partially damp hair. Any moisture in your hair can freeze and cause breakage.
It is important to remember, however, that frequent use of a hair dryer can dry out hair, causing breakage and split ends. You want to make sure that you are using the right products to keep your hair healthy. The best blowout kit will include a heat protectant. These are used to create a thermal barrier on top of the hair to prevent your hair from cooking when using heat styling tools.
3. Moisturize Your Hair
Cold weather and dry central heating can do a number on your hair. We recommend using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner during the colder months. But this may not be enough to keep dry hair at bay entirely. A once-a-week intensive treatment and monthly deep conditioning will help winterize your hair
The use of an oil treatment also helps dry hair to regenerate, it also creates a beautiful, and lustrous shine. Hair oil can be applied directly to wet hair after shampooing, or even after blow drying. The ends of your hair will benefit from this treatment most of all since they’re roughed up by coats, scarves, and sweaters in winter.4. Say No to Harsh Cleansers
When it comes to your shampoo, you want to make sure that you’re using a low sud formula that doesn’t include sulfates. Sulfates are incredibly harmful to hair and suck the moisture straight from the strand. To get the best for your hair, invest in an all natural formula. Look for products that contain natural compounds and read labels carefully. Avoid products that contain any of the following:
- sulfates
- parabens
- irritating foaming agents
- phthalates
- formaldehyde
- oxybenzone
- ethoxylated ingredients
- polysorbates
- phenoxyethanol
- petrochemicals
- triclosan
- TEA/DEA
- synthetic fragrances or colors
Some of these compounds are toxic, and may even contribute to cancer. It’s best to always choose natural products that are cruelty-free.
5. Wear A Hat
Winter activities like skiing, skating and sledding can be a lot of fun. Even a walk in the park with a nice hot coffee or cocoa can be a relaxing and simultaneously exhilarating experience. But the best way to protect your hair from the winter elements is to simply wear a hat. Exposure to rain, snow, and cold are real stress factors for your hair. A hat can minimize exposure to the weather. And with so many stylish options out there – you’re guaranteed to find a hat to match your style.