12 Ways to Take Care of Your Hair During Winter

Jan 29, 2025

Winter can be harsh on the hair. The cold, dry air and indoor heating can lead to frizzy, brittle hair. Whether you have curly, straight, or wavy hair, taking extra care during this season is essential to keep it healthy and shiny. Here are 12 simple ways to take care of your hair during winter.

1. Moisturize Regularly 

Winter’s cold and dry air can strip much-needed moisture from your hair, leaving it brittle, prone to breakage, and lackluster in appearance. Moisturizing regularly is key to combating these effects and maintaining healthy, hydrated hair. Start by choosing a hydrating shampoo and conditioner designed to lock in moisture. Look for ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, coconut oil, and aloe vera, which are known for their deep conditioning and nourishing properties. After shampooing, ensure you follow up with a moisturizing conditioner and leave it on for a few minutes to allow proper absorption into the hair shafts. 

Going beyond just washing, introduce a leave-in conditioner or hair serum into your routine to provide an additional layer of protection against dryness throughout the day. Weekly deep conditioning treatments or hair masks are another excellent step to replenish moisture and restore your hair’s natural softness and elasticity. Opt for masks enriched with oils or proteins to repair damage and boost hydration. It’s also helpful to incorporate a scalp oiling regimen, using natural oils like jojoba or almond oil, to nourish your hair follicles and encourage healthy growth. 

Don’t forget to drink plenty of water—hydration starts from within. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids can also enhance the hydration levels of your hair. For added hydration, consider using a humidifier in your home to counteract the drying effects of indoor heating, which can further deplete moisture from your hair. Taking these proactive steps can help keep your hair smooth, shiny, and resilient against winter’s harsh conditions. 

2. Limit Heat Styling 

Overusing hot tools like curling irons, flat irons, and blow dryers can exacerbate the dryness caused by winter weather. Heat styling strips the hair of its natural oils, leaving it vulnerable to breakage and split ends. To prevent this, it’s important to limit your use of these tools during colder months. Whenever possible, allow your hair to air dry naturally instead of reaching for the blow dryer. If you must use heat, switch to the lowest temperature setting or opt for the cool setting on your blow dryer to minimize damage. 

When styling your hair with heated tools is unavoidable, always use a high-quality heat protectant spray beforehand. These sprays create a protective barrier around your hair strands, reducing the risk of damage from the high temperatures of styling devices. Choose a product with nourishing ingredients like keratin or argan oil to provide dual benefits by both protecting your hair and adding shine. 

Another useful tip is to explore heat-free styling techniques. Braiding damp hair overnight can create natural waves, while foam rollers can help you achieve curls without the need for heat. Additionally, protective hairstyles like buns, twists, or braids can shield your hair from excessive manipulation while keeping it stylish and healthy-looking. 

Finally, give your hair a break by spacing out your styling sessions, especially if you straighten or curl your hair daily. Allowing your hair time to recover and reducing the frequency of heat exposure will go a long way in preserving its strength and vitality over winter. These mindful practices can help ensure your hair remains soft, nourished, and damage-free throughout the season. 

3. Use Hair Masks 

Treating your hair to a deep conditioning mask once a week is an essential step in maintaining silky, healthy strands during the harsh winter months. Hair masks are specifically formulated to deliver intensive nourishment, hydration, and repair from the inside out, making them a must-have in your hair care routine. When selecting a hair mask, prioritize ingredients known for their restorative properties, such as argan oil, shea butter, and keratin. 

Argan oil, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E, which deeply moisturize the hair while promoting shine and elasticity. Similarly, shea butter provides incredible hydration, creating a protective barrier around each strand that prevents moisture loss. Keratin, a protein naturally found in hair, helps strengthen fragile strands by replenishing lost protein, making hair more resistant to future breakage. 

To use a hair mask effectively, start by washing your hair with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to remove any buildup or debris. After rinsing, gently squeeze out excess water and apply the mask generously from the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair, where damage and dryness are most pronounced. For those with especially dry or frizzy hair, consider applying a lighter layer to the scalp as well. Distribute the product evenly using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, ensuring every strand is coated. 

Once applied, leave the hair mask on for the recommended duration—typically 10-20 minutes, depending on the product—for the nutrients to fully penetrate the hair shaft. To enhance the mask’s effects, cover your hair with a warm towel or shower cap to create a mini-steam treatment that improves absorption. Afterward, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and follow up with a leave-in conditioner or serum for an added layer of protection. Incorporating this ritual into your weekly routine will keep your hair hydrated, soft, and visibly healthier throughout the cold season. 

4. Wear a Hat or Scarf 

During the chilly winter months, wearing a hat or scarf is an excellent way to shield your hair from the cold and harsh environmental conditions that can sap moisture, leading to dryness and brittleness. Exposing your hair to freezing temperatures can weaken its structure, making it prone to breakage and split ends. However, not all hats and scarves are created equal when it comes to hair care. 

Many winter accessories, such as wool or acrylic hats, can cause static and friction, leading to knotting, breakage, and frizz. To avoid this, consider investing in silk or satin-lined hats. These luxurious materials provide a smooth, gentle surface that minimizes friction and helps your hair retain its natural oils, keeping it shiny and manageable. Additionally, if you’re using a scarf to cover your hair, ensure the fabric closest to your strands is soft and non-abrasive for optimal protection. 

Even with a hat or scarf in place, your hairstyle can make a difference in preventing winter damage. Consider opting for protective styles such as braids, low buns, or twists, which keep your ends tucked away while reducing the risk of tangling. Before putting on a hat, smooth a lightweight serum or leave-in conditioner over your hair to add an extra layer of moisture and avoid static buildup. This combination of mindful styling and protective accessories will ensure your hair stays hydrated and breakage-free all winter long.

5. Avoid Over-Washing Your Hair 

Over-washing your hair during winter is one of the fastest ways to strip it of its natural oils. These oils are essential for keeping your hair moisturized and protected against the drying effects of cold weather. When you wash your hair too frequently, you risk leaving it vulnerable to increased dryness, brittleness, and even scalp irritation. 

To counteract this, aim to wash your hair no more than every 2-3 days, unless your hair type or lifestyle requires otherwise. For those with oily roots, incorporating a high-quality dry shampoo into your routine can help you achieve a fresh, clean appearance while skipping a traditional wash. Dry shampoos work by absorbing excess oil and adding a touch of volume, making them perfect for extending the time between washes and reducing the need for water-based cleansing. 

When you do wash your hair, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and follow up with a deeply hydrating conditioner to replenish lost moisture. Opt for lukewarm water instead of hot, as hot water can further dry out your hair and scalp. If possible, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair gently while the conditioner is still in, minimizing snagging and damage. 

For added care, consider incorporating a pre-shampoo treatment, such as an oil-based mask or scalp massage with natural oils like coconut or jojoba. This step can provide a protective barrier, ensuring your hair retains its essential moisture even after washing. By thoughtfully reducing your washing frequency and implementing these hydration-focused practices, you’ll maintain stronger, healthier hair through the winter season. 

6. Choose the Right Hair Products 

Selecting the right hair products is crucial for maintaining healthy hair during the winter months. Cold, dry air can strip your hair of its natural moisture, leaving it prone to dryness, breakage, and split ends. To counteract these effects, opt for shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for dry or damaged hair. These products are typically enriched with nourishing ingredients such as argan oil, shea butter, or keratin, which help to restore hydration and repair damage. 

Additionally, invest in styling products that are designed to protect and hydrate your hair. Consider leave-in conditioners, moisturizing hair sprays, or serums that combat frizz and provide a barrier against the drying effects of seasonal changes. Heat-styling tools can exacerbate winter damage, so look for thermal protection sprays to shield your hair from the effects of blow dryers, curling irons, or straighteners. 

For those unsure about which products to choose, a visit to a New York Barbershop can be incredibly beneficial. At a quality barbershop, professionals can assess your hair type and recommend personalized products tailored specifically to your needs. This expert guidance can ensure you’re using products that maximize hydration, strengthen your hair, and leave it looking shiny and healthy throughout the colder months. 

7. Protect Hair from the Elements 

Winter weather can be particularly harsh on your hair, as cold air, snow, and rain strip it of moisture and leave it more vulnerable to damage. Taking steps to protect your hair from these elements is essential to maintaining its health and appearance during this season. Whenever possible, limit your exposure to harsh weather and extreme temperatures. 

If you need to go outdoors for extended periods, make it a habit to wear a protective hat or scarf. A soft beanie lined with satin or silk can be a great choice, as these materials reduce friction and prevent breakage and frizz often caused by rougher fabrics like wool. Alternatively, wrapping your hair in a silk scarf before layering it under a winter hat can provide an extra layer of protection. 

For added safeguarding, apply a leave-in conditioner or a weather-resistant styling product before heading outside. These products not only hydrate your hair but also act as a protective barrier against environmental aggressors. If your hair gets wet from snow or rain, try to dry it gently with a microfiber towel or a soft cotton T-shirt as soon as possible, minimizing the risk of breakage caused by excessive moisture exposure. By prioritizing these protective measures, you can keep your hair looking and feeling its best all season long. 

8. Trim Regularly 

Regular trims are an essential and often overlooked step in maintaining healthy hair, especially during the winter months. The cold temperatures combined with indoor heating can make your hair more prone to dryness, leading to split ends and weakened strands. By trimming your hair every six to eight weeks, you remove damaged ends before they have a chance to split further up the hair shaft, preventing more significant breakage. Regular trims also help your hair look neater and more polished, as split ends can make even the most lush locks appear frizzy and unkempt. 

While trimming can seem counterproductive if you’re trying to grow your hair out, it’s quite the opposite. By cutting off split or damaged ends, you ensure that your hair remains healthy, which in turn allows it to grow longer without breaking. Plus, visiting a professional barber or stylist—such as a New York Barber known for precision and expertise—can completely refresh your look. They can help tailor your haircut to suit your style and maintenance needs, leaving your hair feeling revitalized. Winter can be tough on hair, but regular trims are a simple and effective way to keep your locks in optimal condition.

9. Keep Your Scalp Healthy 

Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. During winter, the low humidity and indoor heating can strip moisture from your skin, including your scalp, making it more susceptible to dryness and flakiness. This can result in irritation, itching, and even dandruff, which not only affects the appearance of your hair but can also hinder its growth. A dry, flaky scalp can clog hair follicles, leading to weakened hair and breakage. For this reason, paying attention to scalp care is crucial during colder months. 

To combat dryness, use gentle, hydrating scalp treatments designed to restore moisture without irritation. Look for products with natural ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, or glycerin, which are known for their soothing and moisturizing properties. Weekly exfoliation with a scrub designed for the scalp can also help remove dead skin cells while promoting circulation, encouraging healthier hair growth. It’s equally important to avoid harsh chemicals and drying ingredients like sulfates and alcohol, which can exacerbate the problem. 

Make sure your hair-washing routine is properly balanced. Over-washing can strip away the natural oils your scalp produces, while under-washing can allow buildup of dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Aim for a frequency that maintains cleanliness without drying out your scalp. Additionally, consider using a humidifier in your home to maintain a comfortable moisture level in the air, helping both your scalp and hair retain hydration. Prioritizing scalp care is an investment in the overall health and appearance of your hair, ensuring it stays strong and vibrant all winter long.

10. Avoid Tight Hairstyles 

While protective hairstyles are often recommended during the winter, it’s essential to avoid tight styles that can cause tension on the hair. Tight ponytails, buns, braids, and other styles may seem convenient, but they can lead to traction alopecia, a condition in which prolonged pulling on the hair leads to excessive damage or even hair loss. Winter conditions can already weaken your hair, as the cold weather and indoor heat make it more brittle. Tight hairstyles only exacerbate this vulnerability by creating stress at the root and along the shaft of each strand. 

Instead, opt for loose, gentle styles that minimize tension. For example, a low, loose bun or a relaxed braid can keep your hair tidy while preventing unnecessary strain. Using protective accessories like satin scrunchies or hair ties without metal parts can also reduce friction and prevent hair snapping or breaking during styling. Another great option is to leave your hair down under a protective hat or scarf, ensuring that it remains free of unnecessary pulling or tugging. 

It’s important to note that giving your hair breaks from styling altogether is just as beneficial. Allowing your hair to rest from time to time helps restore its natural elasticity and resilience. When styling in winter, prioritize comfort, protection, and gentleness to keep your hair intact and damage-free as temperatures drop. By implementing these practices, you can maintain healthier hair and avoid long-term damage caused by undue strain.

11. Sleep on Silk 

Protecting your hair while you sleep is an essential part of maintaining its overall health, and switching to a silk pillowcase can make a significant difference. Unlike cotton, which can be rough on hair fibers, silk provides a smooth and gentle surface for your hair to rest on throughout the night. This reduces the friction caused by tossing and turning, helping to prevent tangles, frizz, and split ends that can occur with harsher materials.

Silk pillowcases also excel at retaining your hair’s natural moisture. Traditional fabrics like cotton can absorb oils from your hair, leading to dryness and potentially brittle strands. Silk, on the other hand, is non-absorbent, meaning it won’t pull the moisture away from your hair, allowing it to stay hydrated and soft overnight. This is particularly beneficial during winter months when the air tends to be much drier and hair is more susceptible to breakage.

To maximize the benefits of sleeping on silk, consider coupling it with other nighttime haircare practices like loosely braiding your hair or wrapping it in a silk scarf for added protection. Together, these steps can help you wake up with smoother, healthier hair, saving you time and effort during your morning routine. Investing in high-quality silk pillowcases is a simple yet effective way to promote your hair’s longevity and luster.

12. Fade Fresh Longer with Regular Touch-ups 

If you sport a fade or any short, detailed haircut, maintaining its crisp and polished appearance requires consistent upkeep. The sharp contrast and clean lines of a fade tend to soften as hair starts to grow out, which can lead to an uneven or messy look. Regular touch-ups are essential to ensure your hairstyle stays fresh and well-defined, regardless of the season.

Scheduling a visit to a skilled New York barber every two to three weeks can help keep your fade looking sharp and your hairline precise. Professional barbers specialize in maintaining the intricate details of fades, from perfectly blending the gradual transitions to keeping hairlines and edges immaculate. Barbers can also tailor the style to your preferences, accounting for individual hair texture and growth rates to achieve a personalized, flattering look.

Winter weather introduces its own set of challenges, such as dryness and static, but regular trims during this season can prevent issues like split ends and unruly growth. Additionally, a haircut appointment isn’t just about maintenance—it’s an opportunity to nourish the scalp and hair with professional-grade products that combat seasonal dryness. Many barbers include scalp treatments or recommend winter-appropriate grooming products that help keep your hair hydrated and healthy.

With the help of regular touch-ups, you can avoid the frustration of an unkempt style while ensuring your fade remains a standout feature of your overall appearance. This attention to detail enhances not only your hairstyle but also your confidence and presence, regardless of where the winter months take you.

Conclusion

Taking extra care of your hair during the winter months is essential to keep it healthy and vibrant. By following these simple tips, you can prevent hair damage caused by the cold and ensure your hair remains strong, shiny, and manageable. Don’t forget to visit your barber for regular trims and advice on the best hair products for winter care.

Das’it Barbershop