As the winter season sets in and ski holidays are being booked, it’s crucial to understand how to help clients protect their hair while they are away. As the combination of cold weather, dry air and constant exposure to snow can wreak havoc on the hair, we spoke to Alex Thaddeus to find out how your clients’ hair can stay healthy and fabulous on this year’s skiing trip.
Preparation
- Hydration is Key: Encourage clients to start their haircare routine well before hitting the slopes. Moisturised hair is more resilient against dry conditions, so I recommend using hydrating masks or deep-conditioning treatments a week before the trip to fortify the hair.
- Trim: Get your clients booked in for a trim before their ski holiday. Eliminating split ends helps prevent further damage caused by the harsh weather conditions.
- Shield with Products: Invest in high-quality haircare products that offer protection against the elements. Look for shampoos and conditioners that cater to hydration and include ingredients like shea butter or argan oil.
On the Slopes
- Cover Up: Recommend your clients to wear a hat or headband to shield the hair from direct exposure to the cold and wind. Opt for hats made of materials like silk or satin to reduce friction and static, these could be put under helmets too.
- Prevent Tangles: Hair should be braided before hitting the slopes. This not only keeps hair tidy, but also prevents tangles caused by wind and snow.
- Spritz Sparingly: Clients should avoid overexposing hair to water. Snow can act as a natural hydrator, but excessive moisture can lead to breakage in freezing temperatures. A light leave-in conditioner or hair oil can provide added protection.
Post-Ski
- Gentle Cleansing: Rinse off any snow or moisture from the hair once indoors. Use lukewarm water and a gentle shampoo to cleanse the scalp and hair without stripping away essential oils.
- Hydrate: Apply a rich, moisturising conditioner to replenish lost moisture and nourish hair. A hydrating hair mask used once or twice during the trip can work wonders.
- Avoid Heat Overload: Limit the use of heated styling tools. Excessive heat can further dry out hair. If necessary, make sure your client has packed a heat protectant spray with them to use before styling.
- Night-time TLC: Before bed, apply a small amount of argan oil or coconut oil to the ends of the hair to lock in moisture overnight.
Overall, it’s important to encourage clients to drink plenty of water to keep hydrated from within, whilst also maintaining a balanced diet. If your client is feeling extra indulgent, encourage them to treat themselves to a scalp massage while in the mountains – this will stimulate blood circulation and promote healthy hair growth.
