Winter Hair Care Tips
As winter settles in—especially here in Colorado—our hair faces unique challenges. The combination of heavy winter jackets and the dry air from our heaters can wreak havoc, leaving our locks dry and frazzled.
When I coach my clients, I like to break hair care down into two categories: factors within our control, such as products, sleeping methods, and styling techniques, and those that aren’t, like our natural curl pattern, hormonal fluctuations, humidity levels, and hair thickness.
With winter presenting even more external challenges, I’m here as your designated curl coach to share effective strategies for maintaining your curls during these dry months.
Moisturizing Treatments
The cold temperatures and dry air can strip moisture from our hair, leading to frizz and static. To combat this, incorporating deep conditioning treatments into your routine is essential. Depending on your hair's needs, you might opt for a deep conditioning treatment every wash if your hair is very dry. For moderately dry hair, consider deep conditioning once a week, while those with naturally moisturized hair can benefit from 1-2 treatments per month.
I think of hair products in terms of weight: light, medium, and heavy. For fine hair, choose lighter products; for medium hair, go for medium-weight options; and for thick or coarse hair, heavier treatments work best.
Some of my favorites include:
Lightweight: Ghost Hair Mask by VERB and Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Mask.
Medium: AG Snow Mushroom Mask.
Heavy: Bounce Curl Ayurvedic Mask and Innersense Hydrating Mask.
Hair Oiling
Winter not only dries out our hair but can also affect our scalp. I recommend oiling your hair and scalp to maintain smooth locks and a healthy scalp. One of my go-to products is the Innersense Harmonic Treatment Oil, which has completely eliminated the dry flakes I used to get. If you’re on a budget, cold-pressed jojoba oil is a fantastic alternative, closely mimicking the natural oils produced by our scalp. I apply a nickel-sized amount to my scalp at night before shampooing in the morning. If you shower at night, this is a perfect excuse to rock a chic slicked-back bun!
I also make it a point to oil my ends more frequently during winter. The same weight principle applies here. For fine or medium hair, I recommend Innersense I Create Shine, VERB Ghost Oil, or Olaplex Oil. For coarser hair, try the Harmonic Healing Oil or Bounce Curl Oil on your ends.
Remember, while oiling is a great protective measure, it’s crucial to detox your hair regularly. Over time, oil can create a barrier that repels moisture. Aim to use a clarifying shampoo or detox mask 1-2 times a month.
Protecting Your Hair
During winter, protecting your hair while you sleep and during outdoor activities is vital. When I ski, for instance, my hair tends to become dry and tangled. My trick? Apply oil and braid my hair into a rope or French braid before hitting the slopes. I also love satin-lined winter caps for extra protection.
For nighttime care, I swear by a satin bonnet, though I understand it might not be for everyone. If you prefer something less sensory, consider Kit.sch pillow scrunchies for a loose bun on top of your head, or invest in a satin or silk pillowcase to minimize friction.
For those with wavy hair, I recently discovered heatless curling rods. They’ve simplified my morning routine and protected my hair for days! I wrap my hair around a soft satin rod and cover it with a silk scarf. The next morning, I wake up to gorgeous, bouncy curls, and it gives me a few extra moments of sleep—always a win on chilly winter mornings!
In-Salon Treatments
If you’re too busy to remember a winter hair care regimen, don’t worry! There are several salon treatments that can boost hydration and shine:
Get a Trim: Don’t underestimate the power of a healthy cut to remove dry ends.
Professional Deep Conditioning Treatment ($60 add-on): I use deeply hydrating treatments processed under heat to maximize moisture absorption.
Scalp/Hair Detox ($25 add-on treatment): Detoxing your scalp and hair creates a clean canvas for moisture absorption. I love using Innersense Peppermint Scalp Scrub and Charcoal Clay Detox Mask for an invigorating experience.
Clear Gloss ($60 add-on): A clear gloss adds shine and fills in cuticle cracks, lasting 4-8 weeks depending on your wash routine. It also helps reduce frizz.
Final Thoughts
Winter can be challenging for many reasons—the holidays can get hectic, deadlines loom large, and short days can make time feel fleeting. The best thing we can do is slow down and embrace self-care, whether that’s using a deep conditioning treatment, applying oil at night, or trying a new look with heatless curling rods.
I’m here to help you care for your hair. Book your next haircut and give yourself—and your hair—the love it deserves!
