Winter weather can be harsh on your hair and scalp. The cold temperatures, low humidity, and biting winds can cause a variety of problems, from dry, brittle hair to itchy, flaky scalps. While the winter months are often associated with cosy sweaters and hot drinks, they can also bring a host of challenges to your hair. Understanding what the winter season might be doing to your hair and scalp is always key to a healthy mane all year long. In this blog, let's look into how winter takes a toll on your hair and scalp and have tips often shared by specialists like a dermatologist in Chembur, on what to do and what not.
The most common effect of winter weather on your hair is dryness. Cold air, coupled with the dry indoor heat, strips moisture from your hair, leaving it feeling brittle and fragile. This lack of moisture can make your hair more prone to breakage and split ends. The hair cuticle, which is the outer protective layer of the hair shaft, can become damaged, leading to a lack of shine and softness.
To prevent dryness, one must hydrate hair. For this purpose, a moisturising shampoo and conditioner meant to replenish lost moisture may be used. Deep conditioning treatments once a week can also help restore hydration and keep hair soft and smooth.
Dryness is possibly one of the most common complaints with winter weather; your scalp can feel dry, itchy, and flaky. Cold air, combined with warmth inside, dehydrates the natural oils on your scalp, which contributes to itching and irritations that may lead to dandruff. This may be a challenge for people who are already sensitive enough.
To combat dryness and irritation, consider using a gentle, hydrating scalp treatment or oil. Additionally, try to avoid hot water when washing your hair, as it can further strip the scalp of its natural oils. Opt for lukewarm water instead to help preserve moisture.
The dryness in the air during winter might cause static in your hair, which leads to flyaways and frizz. It occurs when the hair loses some of its moisture and the strands become charged because they repel each other. This makes styling hair a challenge and makes it look unkempt.
To minimise static and frizz, experts like a skin specialist in Tilak Nagar suggest using a leave-in conditioner or anti-frizz serum that supplies moisture and smooths your hair. On the other hand, you might want to employ a humidifier indoors to minimise the loss of humidity in the atmosphere. You could also avoid combing your dry hair since static is increased while combing; instead, brush your hair by using a wide-tooth comb or your fingertips.
Although the sun seems less harsh compared to that experienced during summer months, UV rays are still powerful enough to penetrate your hair strands. Additionally, snow reflects sunlight, thereby augmenting the strength of UV radiation on your hair. This causes hair fibres to become dull and brittle.
To protect your hair from the sun's harmful rays, you can use a UV-protectant spray or hair sunscreen. Wearing a hat or scarf can also protect your hair from the sun while keeping you warm. Regular deep conditioning of your hair can help restore any moisture lost due to sun exposure.
To keep your hair and scalp healthy during winter, you should do the following:
Winter weather is dreadfully harsh on your hair and scalp, but proper care helps maintain healthy hair all winter long. Moisturise, protect your scalp and reduce static and frizz, and you will conquer all these damaging effects of winter weather with adjustments to your hair care routine. These adjustments ensure that your locks stay soft, shiny, and healthy during the entire winter season. You can also connect with an expert like the best skin specialist in Chembur to manage your scalp and hair health in winter.