Why You Should Switch Up Your Haircare Depending On The Weather
With a new season comes change, be it your clothes, your skincare maybe even your scent. But when was the last time you considered your haircare because of winds of change? (We’re guilty too!) In the winter months, we often cover our hair with hats and hoods when we go outside which causes congestion and build-up on both the hair and scalp. This irritates and leaves your hair flat and lifeless (hence the term ‘hat-hair!’)
Our hair is also exposed to the constant switch between the cold temperatures outside and central heating indoors which can wreak havoc on your hair, which in turn makes styling a nightmare. Think flyways and frizz galore! Here, Errol Douglas, celebrity stylist and Living Proof Pro hair expert reveals the simple swaps to help your hair adapt to change.
Avoid hot water
Though the weather outdoors may lend itself well to hibernating in a scorching bath for hours, washing your hair with hot water can be detrimental to its health. It can damage the cuticles and make your hair super dry. Turn the tap to the coolest temperature you can bear. Your hair will thank you for it!
Maximise heat styling (yes, really!)
You won’t find us saying this too often but don’t be tempted to air dry your hair in the colder months. Hair is at its weakest when wet and the wind and rain will cause knots and added frizz. The drier your hair is, the stronger it is in the great outdoors.
Use a clarifying shampoo
Whether you admit it or not, you probably shampoo less often in the winter months as your hair is often hidden underneath a hat, so it’s especially important that when you do shampoo, you cleanse properly with a clarifying shampoo that removes dirt and build-up and deeply cleans your hair without stripping it of hydration. A clarifying shampoo will also nourish your scalp and helps to prevent dryness and colour fading caused by hard water. Do you need any more reasons to swap?
Read the ingredients
Look for a combination of nourishing, elasticity-improving hydrating ingredients, like protein-rich rice water and ceramides, to lock in moisture. Feed your hair with these nourishing ingredients without weighing your hair down. And, if you want to give your hair a fighting chance, avoid harsh chemicals and silicone-based products.
We all know Vitamin D is crucial for a robust immune system but what some don't realise is this is also key for a healthy scalp.
Pop a Vitamin D supplement
We all know Vitamin D is crucial for a robust immune system but what some don’t realise is this is also key for a healthy scalp. Shorter days and more time spent indoors means that many of us are exposed to very little sunlight and, as a result, can suffer from a vitamin D deficiency. By taking a Vitamin D supplement, you’re feeding your hair and scalp with the nutrients it needs to stay strong before winter takes over.
Introduce a hair mask to your routine
Conditioners are great for everyday use, but most don’t have the intense strengthening that a mask does. Most masks make your hair almost 20 times more resistant to breakage so you can colour and style without completely sacrificing the health of your hair. It’s worth introducing a mask 2/3 times a week to ensure your hair is super hydrated.
Lock in moisture with a hair oil
If you find thick hair masks too dense for your hair type or hate playing the waiting game while your mask gets to work (while you stand naked and freezing in your shower, then try a hair oil instead. It’s a super lightweight alternative to a mask, and contrary to belief it doesn’t add grease. Hair oils mimic your hair sebum; your hair recognises it and will absorb the oil immediately, leaving the hair soft, conditioned, and glossy without any greasiness whatsoever (and minimal waiting time in your bathroom.) And remember, it’s all in the application. Start small with a single drop, working it through wet hair. Rub the oil across your palms first, to ensure an even application.
Invest in a good brush
Strong winds can further damage your hair, especially if you have curly or Afro hair. When exposed to high winds, hair becomes more easily snagged and tangled. When you brush and detangle your hair, the yanking action of the brush can cause further breakage and split ends so investing in a good brush is crucial.
Your haircare toolkit for colder days…
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