If you feel like your hair has been a little lackluster post winter, you’re not the only one. Our skin and hair change with the surrounding environment, and winter weather can do a number on your hair (even if you diligently stay hydrated). Both our skin and hair come into contact with a wide variety of stressors every day that affect their health and appearance. So when they reflect seasonal and/or environmental changes, amending our beauty routines will help our bodies better respond to these external stressors.
The deal with winter and hair comes down to a few factors. The most obvious is the weather – but it’s actually the one-two punch of oscillating temperatures that really get you. When you’re outside, dry, cold air can make strands more brittle and damage-prone. Then when you go back indoors, the cranked-up heating systems can dehydrate your hair too. You’re most likely turning up the temperature in your showers too, which can dull your hair. (This is why the last 30 seconds of your shower matter!) This all leads to extreme dryness or static depending on your hair texture. Not to mention, hat hair can make strands more static or lifeless, and if you’re stretching time between washes during the colder months, product buildup can be mattifying the strands. On top of all of that, damage and split ends can make your hair look more disheveled if you’re overdue for a trim.
Like most beauty routines, it’ll take some time to rehabilitate your hair post winter and get your shiny strands back just in time for summer. There’s no right answer for everyone – those with curls might need to focus on hydration, while those with flat, fine hair might need to work through product buildup. So see which one of these tips are right for you!
General dullness
If you’re not targeting a specific concern and your hair is just in need of some TLC and nutrients, there are a few ingredients I recommend adding to your hair care routine. For a high-gloss, silky sheen, reach for aloe vera, moringa oil, apple cider vinegar, hyaluronic acid, avocado oil, argan oil and eggs (yes, you read that right!).
For an easy at-home hair mask, whisk 1-2 eggs (depending on the length of your hair) and slather on until strands are covered. Leave for 20-30 minutes and rinse with cool water before shampooing. Do this treatment once a month since too much protein can potentially damage the hair! You can also combine 1 part ACV with 1 part water and use it as a rinse after shampooing. Apply the mixture with a spray bottle or pour it directly onto your hair! Let it sit for 1-2 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Damaged strands
This is an easy one because split ends CANNOT be fixed, only trimmed. There are actually different types of split ends, and the type of split you have typically depends on the amount of damage that’s been done to your hair (harsh brushing, hot tools, chemical treatments, etc.). Split ends can definitely emphasize disheveled and frazzled-looking hair, so snipping them off will get your hair back on track to a healthier place.
Dry, brittle curls
If dry, brittle curls are your main concern, opt for a restorative treatment like a deep condition, hair mask or hot oil treatment once or twice a week until you start seeing your curls come back to life. For an intense treatment, coat your hair in an overnight hair mask, wrap it with a shower cap so your hair will drink it up overnight and then rinse in the morning.
Flat, lifeless hair
If you have flat, fine hair and it’s looking lifeless post winter, the dullness most likely stems from product buildup. Product buildup feels “sticky” on the hair and goes away with clarifying shampoos. Regular shampoos are formulated to remove dirt and excess oil from your hair, but clarifying shampoos are specifically formulated to remove buildup.
*For a more general how-to guide, here are 10 ways to keep your hair feeling (and looking!) healthy and strong.
How are you reviving your hair post winter? I’d love to hear your favorite hair care tips!
