Hair Tips for the Winter Season

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and our hair might look like dry straw. In colder regions, winter season can be very tough on hair. You know the signs, dry and itchy scalp, and brittle hair with split ends. You cannot stop winter from happening, but you can take few steps to keep your hair healthy.

Moisture

Cold air evaporates the natural moisture of your hair. When that happens, dry hair has almost no defense against everyday damage. This means you need to add moisture to your hair, especially if you have done any chemical treatment, like highlights or full color. The best way to add moisture to your hair is to use a conditioner, after you have washed your hair with shampoo. I recommend that you use a conditioner that contains cetyl alcohol. Cetyl alcohol is a moisturizing agent. It is derived from a coconut and is one of the best moisturizers on the market. If your hair is very damaged, look for a moisturizing shampoo. Now that you have put moisture in your hair, you want to keep that moisture. Otherwise, it will not do you any good. You can lock the moisture in, by closing the cuticle of your hair. After treating your hair with a moisturizer, rinse with cool or cold water. It is an old but a proven technique. Now that you took care of your hair, scalp may also need attention. Scalp produces sebum, oil that is produced naturally. Sebum production can slow down during the winter season, which causes dry and itchy scalp. If you notice those symptoms, treat your scalp with something light and natural. I recommend olive oil.

Head Garments

Some fabrics, such as wool, can suffocate your hair and even cause breakage. Synthetic fabrics can also draw moisture away from your body. Not wearing a hat would be best, but in the winter cold, that is just impossible. However, there are things that you can do to prevent your head garments from damaging your hair. If you wear a wool hat, try wearing a silk scarf. When wearing a scarf, do not wrap tightly. In general, avoid wearing any tight head garments for longer than 24 hours.

General Tips

Whenever possible, avoid drying your hair with heat. Also, avoid using curling iron. If you have to use heating tools, consider purchasing a leave-in-conditioner, in addition to the normal conditioner. Purchase silicone-based products that can protect your hair, while you are using heating tools. Keep the use of a gel and hairspray to a minimum. If you have to use those products, try to get those that do not have alcohol as an ingredient. Make sure to trim your hair every 6 weeks. The longer the hair, the harder it is to protect against winter damage. Your hair is an extension of your body. Drink at least eight glasses water a day. Winter is also a good time to try different styles such as braids or ponytails. Letting your hair flowing and free is definitely not a good idea during low temperatures. Do not forget about local beauty salons. Many salons offer treatments to hydrate your hair and scalp.