Getting Highlights in Winter

African hair with highlights
Photo: Stockfour/Shutterstock
Q: I'm an African American woman, and I've been thinking about getting highlights. Someone told me that getting color done in winter is bad for your hair because it's drier during this season and might break off. I don't get perms, so the only chemical treatment in my hair would be the dye. Should I wait until spring for my highlights?
 
A: This is a common misconception that keeps many women from enjoying beautiful hair color year-round. While it's absolutely true that winter weather can present some challenges for hair health, avoiding professional color services during the colder months is unnecessary.
 
Let's break down what's really happening with your hair during winter. The combination of cold outdoor air and heated indoor environments can indeed create a perfect storm for hair dryness. When you step outside into frigid temperatures and then return to artificially heated spaces, your hair experiences dramatic fluctuations in humidity and temperature. This constant back-and-forth can strip away your hair's natural protective oils and moisture, leaving it more vulnerable to damage.
 
However, the beauty industry has evolved over the past decades, and we now have access to sophisticated products specifically designed to protect and nourish hair through harsh weather conditions. Professional colorists today use advanced formulations that include deep conditioning agents, protein treatments, and moisture-locking ingredients that actually help strengthen your hair during the coloring process.
 
The key to successful winter highlighting lies in choosing the right professional. You want to find a reputable salon with an experienced stylist who truly understands hair chemistry and seasonal care. A skilled colorist will evaluate your hair's current condition, taking into account factors like your natural texture, any previous chemical treatments, and how your hair typically responds to environmental stressors.
 
Since you mentioned that you don't get perms, your hair is actually in a better position to handle color treatment than hair that's been chemically relaxed. Natural hair texture, while it may require different care techniques, often responds well to professional highlighting when done correctly. Your stylist might suggest techniques like foil highlights, balayage, or even subtle color glazes that can add dimension without over-processing your hair.
 
What's equally important is the aftercare routine. Winter highlighting success depends heavily on how you maintain your hair between salon visits. This typically involves using sulfate-free shampoos, deep conditioning treatments at least once a week, and protective products that shield your hair from environmental damage.
 
Waiting until spring might not necessarily be better for your hair. Spring brings its own challenges, including increased humidity and the beginning of UV exposure season. Each season requires different hair care strategies, and a good stylist will adapt their techniques and product recommendations accordingly.
 
©Hairfinder.com
 
See also:
 
Hair care advice for winter
 
The effect of the weather on our hair
 
What makes hair break more in fall and winter?