Tips to keep those tresses healthy in the dry + harsh winter months.
Winter isn’t just coming– winter is here. Hello, January. I don’t know about you guys, but my hair (which is naturally on the dry side) really suffers in the winter. Cold winds, brittle temperatures, and dry winter air all combine to make it a challenge to keep hair healthy.
Who better to get some healthy hair tips from than my stylist + friend, Stephanie Holle? She’s responsible for taking my hair from its former dark ombre to a lighter + cooler blonde, and she’s my go-to for product recs on keeping my hair healthy. I sat down to get her tips on combating winter dryness.
1. What should we all be doing in the winter to protect our hair?
Everyone starts taking hotter showers in the winter, which dries out both the skin and the scalp. I recommend using cooler water in the shower if you can– or at least pin your hair up until you’re ready to wash and condition it. This practice minimizes exposure to the drying hot water. You should also stock up on a moisture-rich conditioner and work that into your routine at least a few times a week fight dryness.
2. Do you have any favorite products?
- It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Treatment. This one is good year-round because it works as a leave-in conditioner in addition to helping prevent split ends and acting as a thermal protector.
- Moroccan Oil. Hydrate with oil! They make this in a normal and a light formula. The lighter formula is great for people with fine hair, as it doesn’t weigh it down. This one can also be used all year long, and works on wet or dry hair. Just remember- it’s easy to overdose on oils and end up with a greasy head- a little goes a long way! (AW note: I looooove this stuff! I use it all the time on my ends between washes to add moisture.)
- HydraSource by Matrix Biolage. This product comes in a conditioner and a mask. Use the conditioner every time you shower in the winter to keep hair super moisturized. (I don’t recommend this is as an all-year product unless you have extremely dry hair, as it’s heavier.) The mask is meant to stay on longer (think 5-15 minutes) to really penetrate the hair. Use this weekly or twice a month.
- Pureology’s Hydrate line. This is a solid line for adding moisture, start to finish. Pureology also makes a product called Perfect 4 Platinum Miracle Filler. It’s designed for blondes (to add proteins back in that are stripped by the lightening process), but could be used on darker-haired clients because it’s great for combating brittleness and dryness.
Another tip: think about asking your stylist to add a deep conditioning treatment to you winter salon visits. My salon carries a Redken Chemistry Treatment (only available to the pro’s; not something you can do at home). We are able mix up to 3 different formulas, which are modeled after Redken’s shampoo line: All Soft, Color Extend, and Extreme. We apply + let it sit on the hair for 5-10 minutes, and then add a pH formula based on whether your hair is chemically treated (via color, perms, etc.) or you have virgin hair.
3. I know heat styling can damage hair and make dry hair even worse. What can we do to combat that?
Air drying your hair helps a ton. It’s one of the best (and cheapest!) tricks to keep hair healthy. (AW note: air drying is my go-to; I wash, blow out the longer bang-ish pieces in front, give the rest a scrunch and let it do it’s thang.) Even air drying your hair halfway before styling with heat is beneficial– the rule of thumb: the less heat, the better. Using a heat protectant is also key; you do not want to expose untreated hair to hot tools– that’s just asking for damage. Several heat protectants I love:
- It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Treatment. Mentioned before as a fave product– I love it because it’s a workhorse! Not only does it detangle, but it provides heat protection as well.
- Kenra Blow Dry Spray. This product reduces blow dry time, protects hair from heat, combats frizz, boosts shine– and smells absolutely amazing!
- Redken Iron Shape. I reach for this product if I’m doing additional styling and feel the hair needs some extra protection. It’s lightweight, provides heat protection, and adds shine.
4. What is the biggest mistake you see people make with their hair in the winter?
Slacking on heat protection! People tend to use hot tools a lot more often in the winter. Dryers, curling wands, flat iron, etc. If you’re not protecting your hair while using these tools– some which heat up to 425 degrees!– you are going to damage your hair. Add a little dry winter air to the mix? Brittle, parched hair that is more prone to breakage. (AW note: if your hot tool gets hot enough to cook a frozen pizza, you need a heat protectant!)
5. What is the number one thing (either product or practice) you recommend for keeping hair healthy in the winter months?
Practice: Regular hair trims will help your hair all year long, but especially in the winter when we’re using our blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons more often. Frequently-trimmed hair is healthier hair because all the damage at the ends is routinely removed. (AW note: I see Steph once every 8 weeks or so for a color refresh, and most of these visits includes a trim. She snips off the dead ends to keep hairs from splitting up higher + increasing damage.)
Product: Add moisture to your hair however you can– deep moisture masks, thicker conditioners, moisturizing oils, etc. Just be careful not apply the heavier stuff (like oils) directly on your scalp, because that can weigh your hair down and cause greasiness. Stick to applying these types of moisture-boosting products mid-shaft through the ends for best results. (AW note: I keep a few hair masks/deep conditioners in my shower in the winter and make a point to use one a week.)
Major thank you to Stephanie for this information– I feel a little better equipped to tackle this winter, don’t you?
Kansas City pals, are you in the market for a stylist? Go see my girl! Stephanie’s a master stylist at Beauty Brands; reach out and schedule with her at: stephanie.holle15 [at] gmail [dot] com. You can also find her on Facebook and Instagram to see more of her work.
Shop the products Stephanie + I love:
*This post is sponsored by Shear Texture by Stephanie Holle. All thoughts + opinions are my own and I’m happy to partner with Shear Texture to bring you this post.
Having a deep conditioning treatment occasionally when at the salon/hairdresser is a great tip, and something I also do occasionally! Totally with you on appreciating hair oils by the way, both Moroccan Oil and Argan Oil are great 🙂
aglassofice.com
x
Working a deep conditioning treatment in here and there is really a life saver! 🙂
Wow ! Your is beautiful and look so healthy, babe!
Edwige | http://www.hypnozglamcom
Thanks so much, lady!
Great tips!
Thanks, lady!
I have super dry and frizzy hair, it’s so annoying. And I spend all my time with my hair in a tight ballet bun, so that makes it even worse. These looks like great tips and products, I’ll have to save this for later! ;D
Julia || juliainbluhm.com
My hair definitely gets frizzy and dry in the winter- these products help! 🙂
You have a new Blog layout. I like it very much :-*
Melanie / http://www.goldzeitblog.blogspot.de
Thanks so much, lady! I’m still making some tweaks- but liking where it’s headed!
So pretty! Love it.
– http://www.youthofthesun.com
Thank you!
Morrocan Oil is the best! Split end saviour! xx
http://www.thatnewdress.com
It’s amazing, right?! Thanks for swinging by, lady!
Ahh girl your hair is looking gorgeous! I have heard about the “It’s a 10” leave-in product…I really need to give it a try! Such a great + helpful post!
-Kate // http://www.classyandkate.com
Thanks so much, lady- it’s been a process going lighter, but I’m loving the result! 🙂 And It’s a 10 is awesommmme- love the leave-in and the deep conditioning mask!
Great winter hair tips! I have avoided moroccan oil because I have fine hair, but if there’s a lighter formula, I’m there! This cold weather definitely dries out my hair. Thanks for sharing – your hair looks amazing!! xo
Janea – theSTYLetti
You should give the lighter version a shot, lady- my sister has super fine + short hair and loves it!
The conditioning treatment at the salon makes a huge difference!
Right? A simple extra step that’s a game-changer!
I love It’s a 10! One of my ultimate favorites!
Thanks for sharing!
xo,
Jacqueline
Stylin In St. Louis
So good, right? Thanks for stopping by, lady!
Your hair looks gorgeous, and I love the color! I also love these tips. I have such dry hair, so this info was very much needed!
Rachael
http://www.threadsforthomasblog.com
Thanks so much, lady! Glad you found it helpful!
I love your hair it looks so healthy! I have been wanting to try out the 10 Minute Miracle for the longest time. I think it’s time to finally try it now.
Simera |Beautetude
Do it, lady! It’s a great product!
Ahh my hair has been so dry this winter but I Think part of it is that fact that I’m overdue for a haircut! I usually wash my hair less to prevent it from getting too too dry, especially since it has colour in it right now.
xoxo Rina Samantha
http://www.andshedressed.com
I hear you, lady- keeping on top of the moisture game in the winter can be tough!
Oh yes, I totally forgot about Morrocan oil! I still have a bottle somewhere! I should use it, Thank you for these great tips!
Go get that bottle, lady! Moroccan oil does wonders!
Thank you so much for sharing this post girl! I think skincare and healthcare are both so important during the dry winter months! Hope your 2017 is amazing so far 🙂
Would LOVE for you to check out my new music video!
Xo Jessi,
http://www.mywhitet.com/body/
Thanks, lady! Hope you’re having a great weekend!
So interesting post!
Happy New Year!
Gil Zetbase
http://gilzetbase.com/
Thank you!
These are such great tips and I’m definitely going to ask my salon for a deep conditioning treatment next time I’m there. One thing I do do is always try and let my hair dry naturally when I have washed it. This is more through laziness and a hatred for blow dying it but it’s good to know it’s doing my hair some good too! x
I’m with you, lady- I air dry alllll the time! I don’t have the energy for a full blowout after every wash, but it’s totally better for your hair to air dry. 😉 Best of both worlds!
Lovely hair <33
http://anna-and-klaudia.blogspot.com/
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Thanks, lady!
You have completely revamped your site since the last time I was here! Congrats it looks absolutely fabulous, ALMOST as good as your hair! Thanks for all the great tips 🙂
XOXO
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I’m working on a few last tweaks, but yes ma’am- a new look for the new year! 🙂
Argan oil really is a life saver for hair in Winter, and Summer…and any time 😀 Thank you a lot for your last comment on my blog : )
Sending much love!
Xx
Rosa Larissa Klara
conscious lifestyle of mine
Thanks so much for swinging by, lady!
Your hair looks lovely! I love Moroccan oil. Thanks for sharing!
xo Yvonne
http://www.aproposh.com
Thank you so much!
Your hair looks lovely! I’m also loving your new blog layout! 🙂 xx
Thank you so much, lady! Still making some tweaks but loving it so far!
These are great tips. Your hair is beautiful.
http://www.mydailywear.co.uk
Thanks, lady!
My hair has completely changed since I started using Moroccan Oil.
Great post, love the tips!
Vanessa x | http://www.springlilies.com
It’s amazing right? Thanks for stopping by, babe!
Your hair is always killer! Lovely post with great insight <3
Blessings,
Edye | http://gracefulcoffee.com
Thanks, doll!
This is such a cool post! Your hair looks AMAZING. Love the idea of interviewing your hair stylist for the blog! I love my hairdresser too.
Julia・Little Miss Haute Couture
Thanks, Julia! Happy Monday!
love your hair babe!
kisses from dubai ❤️
http://www.mahryska.com
Thank you so much, lady!
First off, love the new layout! Second, what a great q&a!! I’ve never thought to not wet my hair until I’m ready to wash it…it seems so automatic to just get all wet and go from there but that’s a great tip! XO
Lauren-Blair
http://www.gracerock-kellyroll.com
Thank you so much, Lauren-Blair! 🙂 I totally hadn’t thought of this water trick either until Steph told me- but it’s good for minimizing exposure to super hot (and drying) water!
Moroccan oil is a lifesaver. I’ve been meaning to repurchase this and keep forgetting. So thanks for the reminder!
Sxx
http://www.daringcoco.com
Happy to help! 😉
Moroccan oil is the best!
It really is!
love the new lay out! so pretty and classy. Beautiful! love the haircare post
Irene
http://www.thedailylace.com
Thanks, Irene! 🙂 Still making some tweaks- but really liking it so far!
I love your new blog layout! Your hair always looks gorgeous! I need to check out the Hyrdasource products!
Jill
Doused In Pink
Thanks so much, girlfriend! 🙂
Your hair is gorgeous! Great tips.
Thanks, lady!
Your hair looks so great! I really need to try a deep conditioning treatment.
It’s a great way to keep hair in top shape!
you look so different (in a good way) blonde! P.S Your new blog design was a nice surprise too!
Katelyn / http://www.theyellowspectacles.com
Thank you, Katelyn! Going blonde has been a process- but fun! 🙂 And yes- the blog is refreshed; got some additional tweaks to make but I’m loving it1 Thank you!
Your hair looks so pretty! Love it!
Xx,
|| FLOORTJELOVES ||
http://www.floortjeloves.com
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Thank you!
Such great tips! Love this post!
~Samantha
http://goldcoastgirlblog.com
Thanks, lady!
I saw my hairstylist yesterday and she was just telling me about using cooler water!
Great tips, beautiful! I LOVE your hair!
xo, Lily
Beauty With Lily
Thank you so much, lady!
Great tips Ashley, you look fantastic! Baci, Valeria – Coco et La vie en rose FASHION & BEAUTY
Thanks, doll!
Amazing advice! Thanks for sharing 🙂
http://www.sweetpoppy.dudeklatero.com
Thanks, doll!
Your tips were so useful! I really need to start taking more care of my hair during winter.
Andreea,
http://couturezilla.com/
I definitely have to step up my hair game in the winter, too!
Girlll I feel like I can’t get enough moisture into my hair during the winter… Thank goodness for deep conditioning treatments but still girl sometimes I need more! Great post and loving you blonde 🙂
xo, Jessica || The Petite Diaries
I can’t get enough moisture, either- I hear ya! 🙂
So pretty in blond, babe! Love your new hairdo!
xoxo, Vanessa
http://www.WhatWouldVWear.com
Thanks, doll- I’m loving the lightness! 🙂
This was such a helpful informative post. Great tips .
Nina
Nina’s Style Blog
Thanks, Nina!
My hair gets so dry too! Loving these tips and I really want to try that leave in treatment.
PS Loving the blonde, lady!
xo,
Angela
Thanks, girlfriend! I bet you would love the leave-in; works wonders!
These are great tips! Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Thanks for stopping by, girls!
OK, before I even START to talk about how necessary these hair tips are, I have to say I am loving (loving loving) your new blog look, lady! Congrats on the change! Winter always does crazy things to hair, this is a good reminder for me to step up my heat protection game, too.
Kathryn • simplykk.com
Thanks SO much, doll- still making some tweaks, but I’m loving the new look, too!
I really need to try an oil for the winter- my hair gets so dry!
Winter is the worrrrst, right? Get on that oil, lady! 🙂
Your hair is so healthy and beautiful. You look super cute 🙂