When the cold winter months arrive many of us try to prioritise our physical health and well-being. This often means going for an influenza vaccine, stacking up on medication, and filling our bodies with layers of clothing to avoid falling ill.
But while the state of our health needs considerable amounts of attention to ensure that we are healthy enough to fulfill many of the obligations life expects – the same amount of attention should be given to the external conditions of our body – such as our hair.
Optima Hair, a reputable source specialising in the health and well-being of hair states that cold weather can have multiple negative effects on the state of one’s hair if they are not properly taken care of.
“Natural hair, under the siege of Winter’s dry and cold air, often loses its natural moisture. It becomes susceptible to breakage and split ends, and can sometimes feel rough or look dull,” explains the above-mentioned source.
In addition to this dandruff and scalp irritation is known to become one’s reality because of the scalp drying out whenever out in the cold or because of indoor heating systems.
However, with the right amount of attention, you can avoid this.
Here is a list of hair-care tips that you can try for your hair to be protected this winter:
Protect your hair with silk
While this is usually a technique performed by women, silk coverings is something that has been warmly welcomed by men in recent times. This be tested through the purchasing of a hair bonnet, durag or even investing in some silk pillowcases.
According to men’s grooming expert Aaron Wallace, this can be beneficial to the beard as well. “Silk is a great way to avoid friction breaking our hair strands. Afro hair and its coils are especially at risk of getting caught in our nightwear, pillows, and cover,” explains the source.
Avoid heating
“While it’s tempting to take hot showers or use heating tools, these can further strip moisture. If using heat tools, always use on the lowest setting and use heat protectant products,” explains Optima Hair. Additionally, Aaron Wallace recommends drying your hair with a towel instead.
Moisturise
Aaron Wallace also states that it is important to keep one’s hair moisturised during winter. While men often keep hair moisturising to a limit of one time a day during other months, winter requires moisturisation to be done both morning and evening, followed by sealing it with a silk cover.
Also see: Want healthy hair? Try this coconut oil coating method | Bona Magazine
