Summer and Winter Hair
A: The difference comes down to how temperature and humidity affect your hair’s structure and moisture levels. Hair is mostly made of keratin, a protein that holds water within its structure. In winter, cold air carries less moisture, creating a dry environment that literally sucks water out of your hair. This dehydration makes strands stiff and brittle, like a dried-out sponge.
Summer, on the other hand, brings warmth and higher humidity, which helps your hair stay naturally hydrated. The heat gently opens the hair cuticle, letting moisture from the air penetrate each strand, keeping hair soft and flexible. But don’t assume summer is always better. Too much heat and sun can cause their own damage.
Winter’s constant temperature swings also take a toll. Going from heated rooms to freezing outdoors makes your hair expand and contract, stressing the strands over time and leading to breakage.
Cold weather also slows your scalp’s natural oil production, meaning less protective sebum to coat your hair. Without this barrier, your strands lose moisture faster and become more vulnerable to damage.
Winter Hair Care Tips:
• Use deep conditioning treatments regularly to lock in moisture.
• Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or natural oils.
• Run a humidifier at home to combat dry indoor air.
Summer Hair Care Tips:
Even though humidity helps, summer brings its own challenges. Too much sun and heat can damage the hair cuticle, leading to moisture loss, color fading, and weakened strands (UV rays break down hair proteins).
• Protect your hair with UV-filtering products (think sunscreen for your hair!).
• Keep up with deep conditioning, but opt for lightweight formulas that won’t weigh hair down.
By adjusting your routine seasonally, you can keep your hair healthy year-round.
©Hairfinder.com
See also:
Hair and sun exposure
What makes hair break more in the fall and winter?
Does the sun make your hair grow faster?