Winter and dry hair often go hand in hand if you don’t follow the right hair care routine. Low moisture in the air can leave your hair frizzy and dull making it prone to breakage. Several factors combine to damage your hair when the weather is cold and dry. Dryness in the winter air can slightly raise your hair’s cuticle layer, causing moisture from the hair shaft to escape into the air. A raised cuticle makes your hair appear frizzy. Dry, frizzy locks get tangled easily, leading to hair breakage. Proper winter hair care is necessary to combat frizz, dandruff and hair fall; here are a few things that can help.
- Wear A Hat – I cannot stress this enough, especially if you live in an area that gets frequent snowfalls.. Head covers protect your hair from the dry, cold winds and prevent frizz and tangles. Covering your hair also stops moisture from evaporating into the air, keeping your hair hydrated for longer hours. Use a silk or stain head cover paired with wool hat as a second layer to keep away unwanted friction.
- Adjusting your shampoo routine – In addition to avoiding shampoos that contain sulfates that dry your hair reducing the frequency of shampooing your hair is a great way to keep moisture intact. If reducing frequency isn’t an option, another great option is cleansing your hair with Ayurveda recommended Reetha and Shikakai (soap nut and soap pod). These boost hair health, maintain shine and promote new hair growth.
- Avoid Hot Showers – I know this sounds counterintuitive in winters when hot showers are scintillating to the senses, but not that great for your tresses. Hot water opens up your hair cuticles allowing for the essential moisture to escape into the air. Hence, a hot shower can leave your hair porous, dry and more susceptible to breakage. Opt for lukewarm water if cool showers are not an option.
- Add in a Hair Mask – Pamper your hair in winter with some nourishing hair mask that repairs and replenishes essential oils in your hair shaft. Use a hair mask after you shampoo and before conditioning your hair for best results. Look for masks with Banana, Avocados and Honey. Banana and avocado are both rich in essential vitamins and minerals that repair the cuticle layer of your hair. Honey, being a natural humectant, forms a protective layer over your hair and prevents excessive moisture loss in winter.
- Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated from within. Your diet also determines the health of your hair. So include fruits and vegetables that have a high water content. This helps to keep your hair roots nourished and pacifies the Vata (Air and Space) Dosha that causes several hair problems in winter.
