5 Ways to Prevent Dry Hair this Winter
When it comes to natural hair, dryness is almost always the biggest issue. Add in a change of seasons and the problem can seem impossible to correct.
But, with a few good hair habits, you can keep your natural hair moisturized and fabulous – even in the dead of winter. Here are 5 of my best tips to do just that:
Tip #1: Avoid Hot Water
Washing your hair in hot water can deplete your strands of moisture. Since wavy and curly hair tends to be naturally drier than other hair types, retaining as much moisture as possible during wash day is key.
Do your best to use lukewarm water to shampoo your hair and if you can stand it, rinse out your deep conditioner with cold water to seal in the moisture.
Tip #2: Wear a Protective Style
Winter is the perfect time to put your hair into a protective style. With your ends tucked up away from the elements, you can prevent them from drying out.
Be sure to regularly wash, moisturize, and deep condition with protective styles. As the weather gets colder, this will help you maximize the moisture in your strands.
Depending on your hair type and scalp sensitivity, oiling your hair regularly can also be beneficial for alleviating dry hair. Oil helps seal moisture in, allowing you to savor your style for longer.
Tip #3: Deep Condition Every Week
While regular deep conditioning should be non-negotiable whether your hair is natural or relaxed, it’s easy to let this task slip by.
However, deep conditioning is one of the most effective ways to maintain moisture. Choose thicker, creamier conditioners with moisturizing ingredients that penetrate your strands.
To make your moisture last even longer, use heat to help conditioners really soak into your strands. Use your body’s natural heat with a shower cap or plastic wrap or sit under a hooded dryer for 20-30 minutes with a cap to get the most out of your conditioners.
Tip #4: Ditch the Glycerin
A common ingredient in natural hair products, glycerin is great during the summer, but it can be a major contributor to dryness in the winter.
That’s because glycerin naturally attracts water. In the summer, it pulls water from the atmosphere into your strands. With higher humidity levels and water in the air in the summer, that can lead to supple strands.
But in the winter, your hair likely has more water in it than the atmosphere so glycerin pushes moisture out of your strands. Avoid products where glycerin is listed as one of the top 5 ingredients to save your hair from dryness.
Tip #5: Get a Humidifier
What makes winter so tough on your hair is drier air, especially indoors. With heaters and radiators running constantly, it’s easy for your strands to feel parched.
A humidifier can replenish lost moisture in your environment and your hair. Plus, moisture air will also help your skin maintain its natural glow.
Listen, dry hair doesn’t have to be your norm. Follow these tips for juicy strands all winter long.
Keep your curls perpetually poppin’, soft, and moisturized with these tips and Naturalicious products. Head on over to our online shop and check out our selection of moisturizing products here!