Get To Know Your Hair

If you have very thick hair (and lots of it!), you'll need to use heavier, thicker, moisturizing treatments throughout the winter months. But if you have thin, very fine hair, using heavy products will simply weigh it down more and will leave it looking flat, limp, dull and lifeless. Instead of using a heavy formula, use a light, gentle conditioner every time you wash your hair and supplement it with a leave-in spray conditioner. Again, make sure that the formula is light - too heavy and your hair will be lank and greasy. In most cases, it's a good idea to experiment until you find a formula that works for you in both the summer and winter and stick to it!

Be Careful With Heated Appliances

We all tend to use heated appliances more frequently throughout the winter months, simply because we can't sit outside and let our hair dry naturally - so it's really important that you're careful when you using them. Instead of just blasting your hair with the dryer, try to dry it properly, aiming the dryer at the roots and then moving down to the tips, combing or brushing hair as you go. Liberally spritz a heat-defence spray throughout the hair before using the heated appliances, and once hair is styled - either using a straightening iron or hair curler - add something like hair oil to prevent further damage and to nourish hair further.

How to Combat Breakage

Hair can break really, really easily in very cold weather - go out with wet, damp or even slightly damp hair when it's freezing out and your hair cuticles could actually freeze, snapping and breaking in two. If your hair is particularly prone to breakages, split ends or frizz, help to protect it by making sure it's completely dry before you leave the house and by applying a hair conditioning treatment that contains protein or keratin to increase strength and improve hair texture. Even if you're growing your hair out, make sure that you get it trimmed at least every 8 weeks - although that might sound a little counter-productive, especially if your hair is prone to breakages, it'll actually help to keep hair healthy and will reduce the amount of split ends and breakages that you experience.

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Wash Hair in Lukewarm Water

Although it can be tempting to wash hair in scalding hot water through the winter months as it's just so cold out, washing hair in water that is too hot will strip it of color and dry it out. Wash hair in lukewarm water instead - and if you can bear it - rinse with cold water (very quickly!) for shine and body. It's an odd tip, but it works really well.

Reduce Heat Styling

Reducing heat styling is vital for maintaining healthy hair. Frequent use of tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can strip hair of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, breakage, and split ends. Instead, embrace your natural hair texture and try air-drying more often.

If you need to use heat, opt for the lowest effective temperature setting and always use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage. On days you don't need a polished look, experiment with heat-free styling techniques like braids, buns, or twists. These steps can significantly improve your hair's health, retaining its natural shine and strength.

Use a Humidifier

Using a humidifier in winter can be a game-changer for both your health and comfort. By adding moisture to the dry indoor air, it helps alleviate problems caused by low humidity, like dry skin, irritated sinuses, and respiratory discomfort. It's also beneficial for maintaining the health of your hair and preventing static. When using a humidifier, ensure it's regularly cleaned to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Additionally, maintaining an optimal humidity level (ideally between 30% to 50%) is crucial to avoid condensation and mold issues in your home. A humidifier can significantly enhance your indoor living environment during the colder, dryer months.

Winter doesn't have to mean rubbish hair. With a little bit of love and a little bit of effort, your hair can be just as sleek and shiny through the winter months as it is throughout the summer - you just need to use the right products!