Masks can often be overlooked, but applying them once a week helps to give the hair back what it needs. Ensure the mask is combed all the way through the hair and wrapped in a hot towel, cling film or shrink wrap. Leave the product on the hair for at least 20 minutes, this will keep the heat in and open the hair’s cuticle to allow the ingredients of the mask to better penetrate the hair shaft. Pureology has a brilliant Hydrate or Strength Cure Superfood Mask. I also recommend a steam treatment to open the cuticle layers before a deep conditioning treatment. We offer them in the Neil Moodie Studio – it’s a very popular, relaxing treatment for a cold winter’s day!
When the material in hats or scarves rub against the hair in dry conditions, electrons transfer, creating an electric charge that makes strands repel each other – this causes static. Instead, I recommend opting for smoother fabrics like satin or silk-lined hats that can reduce friction and prevent frizz.
Buy a silk pillowcase to help reduce breakage during sleep. These are also great for the skin and are widely thought to reduce wrinkles – a double whammy!
Whilst we’ve all seen the famous Friends episode with Monica’s humidity hair disaster, it can actually be a good idea to keep a humidifier indoors during the winter. This can work to maintain hair moisture levels and mitigate static issues commonly caused by indoor heating. It could also be good for your houseplants – again, another double whammy!
It may seem basic, but what we put into our bodies has an effect on everything – the hair is no exception to this! After a festive season of overindulgence, make sure to stock up on fish for Omega fatty acids, vitamin B12, iron and protein. Also, increase the amount of dark leafy greens for vitamins A and C, as well as eating pulses and legumes for added iron, zinc and biotin.
Think about how you’re treating hair in the winter months. Combing the hair is good and helps to distribute natural oils, but I recommend using a wider-toothed comb to avoid unnecessary breakage.
Advise clients to try and limit washing their hair to 2-3 times a week, as well as using a sulfate-free shampoo to avoid further drying out the strands. Overwashing can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage, as can using hot water. Opt for lukewarm water when washing your hair to help maintain its moisture.
Hot styling tools – including blow-dryers, flat irons and curling irons – can further dry out the hair, so try to limit their usage during the winter months. When you do use heat styling tools, always cover the hair in a heat protectant spray to minimise damage.
To provide an extra boost of moisture, encourage clients to incorporate oil treatments into their haircare routines. Coconut oil, argan oil and olive oil are great options to help nourish and hydrate the hair. Simply apply the oil to the ends of the hair, leaving it on for a few hours or overnight, before shampooing as usual.
Winter weather can lead to split ends and breakage, so regular trims are important to keep the hair looking healthy. Trimming the hair every 6-8 weeks will help prevent split ends from travelling up the hair shaft and causing further damage.
