We all know that winter weather brings with it a whole host of problems for the hair. The change in temperature and humidity when one goes from inside to outside (and vice
versa) can strip the moisture from the hair and leave it dry and fly away. This gets compounded when you add in the static build-up caused by the fibers in sweaters and overcoats, and walking across carpeted floors
when the air is heavily charged with negative ions.
Fortunately, modern cosmetic science has brought us a whole host of solutions to Winter Hair Worries. And in order to get ready for winter, here are some products that we
feel are must-haves:
Dry / Waterless Shampoo
In harsh winter weather, it often helps when you can avoid having to wash your hair every day. Yet, many people have a hard time going without a daily shampoo. That’s where
waterless shampoo comes in. Whether you opt for the liquid formula that needs no water to rinse it out, or the sprays and powders that are applied then brushed out, waterless shampoo can help you deal with the oily
scalp issues that often occur between shampoos.
Smoothing Serum
The most commonly mentioned issue in winter for many of my clients is frizz and static issues during the cold weather. Sometimes it’s because of the added winter wear:
scarves and hats of wool and knit fibers, and sometimes it’s simply the cold or warm dry air in various places, but the result is always the same. The hair puffs out and gets frizzed and statically charged.
Smoothing serum helps with this because it coats the hair shaft and helps prevent static charges from accumulating in the hair. You can even redouble the effect by using an
added misting of hairspray to further insulate the hair.
Scalp Treatments
Dry scalp and itching is another common complaint in the winter months. To combat the problem, keep a scalp treatment on hand. Whether you prefer one containing fruit oils,
tea-tree oil, or other herbal preparations, a moisture-rich scalp treatment can keep the scalp moisturized, as well as itch- and flake-free. You can even incorporate the scalp treatment into your regular routine,
by using a dry scalp shampoo. Many people develop a dry, itchy scalp in winter months and assume the problem is dandruff, when it is merely a matter of dry scalp.
Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner
Believe it or not, the need for moisturizing shampoo and conditioner is greater in winter months than in summer. Because heated air tends to be very dry (as does very cold
air) your hair and scalp will dry out more in the winter than they do in summer. You have to replenish this moisture in order to prevent the need for some of the other products listed here. There is no hard-and-fast
rule on brands that work best. Simply choose a brand you are comfortable with and look for a formula designed to moisturize the hair and scalp.
If you seem to be having special problems with moisture loss in the winter months, try using a deep conditioning treatment. A simple deep conditioner you can use is
Cholesterol. This is an inexpensive fatty cream that hydrates and moisturizes the hair. It isn’t good for very fine hair, but for those types that tend to be dry and frizzy in winter months (coarse hair, and
very curly, or very thick hair) simply apply the cholesterol cream liberally to the hair, massage it in, comb it through and let it sit on the hair for fifteen to twenty minutes. You can then shampoo the hair
as normal (it make take a few shampoos) to remove the excess, but you’ll find that your hair is saturated and shiny.
