Fight frizz, beat dryness, and protect your hair this winter.
Hot yoga and saunas might warm your soul during winter's chill, but the cold weather can be especially unforgiving on your hair. Between dry indoor heating, frigid outdoor air, and a penchant for hot showers, your hair can feel the triple threat of dryness, weakness, and scalp irritation. The good news is that a few easy tweaks to your routine can help your hair feel its best all winter long. Below, haircare experts share their insights on maintaining hydrated hair.
Strengthen from Within
Great hydration starts even before you hit the shower, especially for those who regularly do chemical treatments throughout the year, like coloring or professional straightening. “Using Olaplex No.0 Intensive Bond Building Treatment weekly before a treatment can help strengthen and prepare your hair,” says Vernon François, celebrity hairstylist and Olaplex global ambassador. Strengthening your hair from the inside out starts with a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet rich in protein, biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins like D and C can give your strands the building blocks they need to grow stronger. And don’t forget the basics: Drink plenty of water, get daily movement to boost circulation, and manage stress by prioritizing self-care.
Care for Your Scalp
Winter weather can wreak havoc on your scalp, which can include “increased sensitivity, inflammation, tightness, flakes, and increased oiliness/dryness,” says Kerry Yates, trichologist and founder of Colour Collective. One way to limit adverse effects due to the changes in weather is to offset moisture losses. “Look for ingredients like natural humectants and emollients. Aloe vera and hyaluronic acid are some of my favorites,” says Yates.
For an added boost, a weekly scalp treatment like the Act+Acre Cold Processed Scalp Detox can be a game-changer, helping to balance your scalp’s pH during those colder months. Bonus tip: Use it as an excuse to treat yourself to a scalp massage. “Massaging for at least four minutes a day not only relieves tension and tightness but also improves blood circulation, reduces hair fall, and helps distribute your scalp’s natural oils from root to tip,” says Yates.
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Hydrate Like a Pro
“Hydration is essential in winter to protect hair from dryness, brittleness, and breakage caused by cold air and indoor heating,” says François. Cold air and cranked-up indoor heat can quickly zap moisture from your hair, leaving it dry and brittle, but a super-hydrating conditioner will bring it back to life. “Products like Olaplex No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner and Olaplex No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask really lock in moisture,” he says.
But technique matters, too. “Apply conditioners and masks only to the mid-lengths and ends to avoid weighing hair down,” says Yates. For an added hydration boost, consider using a humidifier in your bedroom. “Running a humidifier at night keeps your scalp and hair hydrated,” says François.
Protect Hair from the Elements
In the same way a facial serum does wonders for restoring moisture back to our skin, a little hair serum goes a long way in restoring moisture and shine. “A great serum not only shields your hair from environmental damage but also doubles as a heat protectant,” says Christin Brown, celebrity stylist, curl specialist, and Olaplex global ambassador. “With holiday party season in full swing, many of us are turning to hot tools like diffusers and blow dryers more often. A heat protectant is a must-have to keep your hair strong and healthy while you’re having fun with all those festive holiday looks,” she adds.
When heading outdoors, wear a hat or scarf to shield your hair from the elements — but remember to wash these items regularly to prevent scalp irritation. Skip the steaming hot showers even though they feel therapeutic at the moment — they dry out your hair and scalp. “Stick to lukewarm water instead and even finish with a cool rinse to lock in shine if you can stand it,” says Brown.
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Switch Up Your Styles
During the winter months and holiday season, it’s tempting to rely on tight hairstyles like sleek ponytails or festive braids for a polished look at parties and events. However, these styles can stress your hair and scalp, especially when combined with the dryness caused by the elements. “Frequent tight hairstyles can lead to traction alopecia, breakage, and irritation,” says François.
To reduce damage, opt for looser styles or alternate your ponytail height to avoid repetitive tension on the same areas. If you’re rocking braids, “limit their wear to six to eight weeks and take breaks between styles. By giving your hair some breathing room, you’ll keep it healthier and ready to shine throughout the season,” says François.
Tiny Tweaks, Big Impact
Protecting your hair during the colder months doesn’t have to mean a complete overhaul of your routine. Small changes, like switching to a hydrating mask once a week or adding a scalp detox, can make a noticeable difference. “When it comes to seasonal haircare, I'll be one of the first ones to express how important it is to make sure your products align with your hair's needs,” says Brown. By incorporating nourishing ingredients, protecting your hair from the elements, and maintaining a healthy scalp, you’ll set your hair up for success all season long.