Destress your tresses this Winter

Winter demands extra attention for hair care due to the cold, dry air dehydrating the hair and increasing the risk of breakage. Hot showers and friction from caps increase moisture loss, leading to dryness and increased vulnerability to tangling. Additionally, the season may trigger scalp issues like dandruff and itchiness, emphasising the need for a comprehensive winter hair care routine focused on conditioning and hydration.

Choose Well

Nourishing oils like avocado and jojoba, butters like shea and cocoa, and other ingredients like vegetable glycerine, panthenol, and ceramides are known to be helpful in the winter. From your kitchen, you can use coconut milk for hair nourishment during winter. “You can try my recipe for healthy winter hair. Blend equal parts of coconut milk and your preferred oil, adding a few drops of vegetable glycerine. Spritz this mixture onto your scalp and hair, wear a cap, and shampoo after an hour. This mask provides deep conditioning, effectively warding off dryness and keeping your scalp moisturised,” says Aarushi Singhal, founder, Blend It Raw Beauty.

Issues & More

Winters can be harsh on your hair health. The harsh cold air raises the cuticle of your hair strands to rob all the moisture locked in the hair shaft, making your scalp extremely dry and frustratingly frizzy. “The dryness of the scalp results in dandruff, hair loss and an irresistible urge to itch. The dry hair becomes more prone to breakage and combing the tangles caused by the high winds only makes it worse. Dry hair encourages the electrons to charge up making your hair static, leading to more frizz along with difficulty in styling. The winter season is not easy on colour-treated hair either. Coloured hair tends to lose vibrancy and shine over time,” says Saurav Patnaik, COO, co-founder, Anveya Living Private Limited.

Take Care?

It is essential to avoid hot showers at all costs, as they not only damage hair strands by making them drier and more prone to breakage but can also cause dandruff. Choose lukewarm water instead. In winter, refrain from shampooing without prior application of a deep conditioning mask or oil to keep your hair nourished and healthy. “Avoid blow drying and heat styling, if you must then use a heat protector spray and do a deep conditioning oil treatment afterward. Cover hair with a satin scarf or bonnet when sleeping and when traveling, when traveling by air it’s important to cover and protect your hair as well as drink a lot of water as the cabin is dehydrating due to the air conditioning. If travelling in an open vehicle the wind can dry out and tangle your hair so keep it covered,” says Tanya Eldred Bhat, Founder, XO Curls.

Scalp Sense

Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp, so do not neglect scalp care during winter. During winter, several scalp problems become more prevalent due to the combination of colder temperatures and lower humidity. To maintain a healthy scalp in winter, it is essential to strike a balance between cleansing and moisturising. Adjust your hair care routine based on your specific scalp needs and consult with a dermatologist if scalp problems persist or worsen. “The lack of moisture in the air can lead to dryness, causing itchiness and flakiness. To address this, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, and consider applying a hydrating scalp treatment with ingredients like aloe vera or tea tree oil. Dry air can contribute to an increase in dandruff. Combat dandruff by using an anti-dandruff shampoo containing ingredients like pyrithione zinc or selenium sulfide. Massage the shampoo into the scalp, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.  Flakiness can result from both dryness and the accumulation of dead skin cells. Exfoliate the scalp regularly with a gentle scrub or consider using a scalp brush to remove flakes. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner,” says Dr. Niketa Sonavane, celebrity dermatologist and founder, Ambrosia Aesthetics, Mumbai.

Cold weather can exacerbate scalp itching. Choose a gentle, fragrance-free shampoo and conditioner to avoid irritation. If the itching persists, consult with a dermatologist for specialized treatments. Some individuals may experience increased sensitivity during winter. Opt for mild, hypoallergenic hair care products and avoid excessive heat styling to minimize irritation.