We often view summer as the most damaging time of year for our hair, but winter comes with its own issues. Dandruff, hat hair, static electricity, breakage and split ends plague us throughout the colder months. Here are some tips to help you handle the winter hair woes.
Dry Flaky Scalp - In winter there is less humidity which can dry out your scalp. If the peeling is persistent and comes with other symptoms such as a super dry face or redness or rashes on other parts of your body, you might have dandruff. In that case, you'll want to switch to a shampoo made to treat this condition (we recommend Kenra Dandruff Shampoo).
Hat Hair – Before you slip on your hat, style your hair in a way that adds body. Hats trap in heat, causing your hair to hold whatever shape it's in. If your hat is pushing down your style, it stays that way. If you have long hair twist hair into a high bun at the crown of your head and secure with a hair elastic then put your hat on. Just shake out the bun when you get inside. If you have short hair pull the front section of your hair into four mini bumps, and secure with bobby pins before you put on your hat. Remove the pins once you're inside, and flip head upside down, using your fingers to restyle.
Static Electicity – Static happens when your hair picks up an electrical charge from the dry air. Add moisture back to your hair to fight static by switching to a more hydrating shampoo/conditioner. Fine/Straight hair: Rub an anti-frizz serum to tips of hair. Carry a dryer sheet for touch ups throughout the day. Medium/Wavy hair: Use a rich leave-in conditioning spray before drying. Full/Curly hair: Coarse hair needs a heavier leave-in cream to knock out static (try AG Fast Food).
Breakage/Split Ends - Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Prevent severe snapping by putting a humidifier in your bedroom at night and getting a trim every six to eight weeks. Your diet also plays a role in keeping your hair strong. Fill up on strand-fortifying protein twice a day – have an omelet for breakfast, snack on a hand full of almonds or add a cup of spinach to your lunch or dinner. If you still have break-age, try an intensive deep-conditioning treatment like "It's a 10" miracle hair mask. Wrap wet hair coated in mask in cellophane and wrap in warm towel for ten minutes or use the warm setting on your hair dryer to slightly heat up your head then rinse hair thoroughly. For more severe damage you can leave treatment on overnight. When in doubt, check with your stylist for expert advice on your personal hair issues.
