Why is my hair so dry and straw-like in winter?
In winter, your hair is drier and strawier, mainly due to the cold outdoor air and the dry heating air indoors. These conditions lead to transepidermal water loss, which dehydrates your hair and skin. The combination of cold air and dry heating air makes hair appear brittle and dry.
How can you better protect your hair in winter?
Moisturise it: Use moisturising shampoos and conditioners. Regular use of hair masks can help to retain moisture. Leave-in products such as serums, lotions or creams that are not rinsed out provide the hair with additional moisture.
Shampoo Pro tip:
Shampoo using the CWC method (1. apply conditioner to dry lengths and ends 2. shampoo only the scalp, your lengths will be cleansed when rinsing 3. “Hair mask every 3-5 hair washes / leave conditioner in hair lengths and ends after each hair wash, done). First apply the hair mask to the lengths and ends only and then leave the conditioner on to close the cuticle. This locks in the active ingredients of the hair mask.
Sealing in moisture your hair:
Products with silicones can help to seal in moisture in the hair. You can use leave-in products, hair oils etc. for this. The same applies to the skin: use a rich cream after showering to seal in moisture.
Drying your hair:
Avoid letting your hair air dry. Blow dry with a lot of wind and little heat, as the heat removes extra moisture from the hair. Always use a heat protectant
Hair and headwear:
Wear hats with silk or satin linings to reduce friction and prevent hair breakage. Make sure that caps and hats are not too tight so as not to restrict blood flow to the scalp. Braided plaits help you avoid friction
Hair and dry air:
A humidifier in living or working spaces can help to increase humidity and keep hair supple. Of course, this also helps your skin.
Blonde hair in winter:
Blonde hair needs special attention as it is more prone to dryness and damage. Use special products for blonde hair to preserve the colour and moisturise.
Special care:
Silicone-based hair oils help detangle and provide extra protection. For long hair that tends to tangle, a leave-in product or hair oil can help with detangling.
Your scalp:
Your scalp also needs a special look, as hats and dry air are not conducive to a healthy scalp barrier. Make sure your shampoo is moisturising & soothing.
Have fun trying it out! These tips should help you to optimally care for and protect your hair in winter. For more information, I recommend consulting the sources below.
If you need more tips and advice or a personalized hair care styling plan, book your appointment online now.
I’m Anja and I’ll be happy to help you with all your hair questions.
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