It seems like we just got over the summer frizzies and the ravages of the sun — and now we’re dealing with winter hair. Dry, lack-luster locks, breakage, static and itchy scalps are a few of the troubles of the season… But there’s no need to give in quite so easily. Here are some healthy habits and tips experts recommend to keep your tresses looking their best.
Be gentle. Our hair tends to be drier and more brittle this time of year, and thus more prone to damage. Take it easy with the hairbrush and styling tools, and use caution with hairpieces and extensions since they can pull on your hair and scalp. If you have long hair, beware that pulling it back too tightly and for too long can cause damage and hair loss. Avoid over-styling, and keep this rule of thumb in mind: the less you do to your hair, the better off it will be.
Still think you need to 100 strokes a day to keep your hair healthy? It’s a myth, according to experts, and will cause more stress and static.
Wear a hat. Listen to your mother’s advice, especially if you have treated or thinning hair. A hat or headscarf will shield your locks and scalp where earmuffs and headbands leave you vulnerable to the ravages of the wind, cold and sun. Keep your sense of style with a hat to suit your head and face shape, and choose a colour that’s flattering for your skin tone.
Worried about the dreaded “hat head”? Experts suggest pushing or pinning your hair back before you don the cap — but in the opposite direction to your style. If you’re worried about damaging or pulling on your hair, sew in a silk or satin liner.
Eat well. Hair needs nourishment from the inside too because what we eat becomes the foundation for new hair and nail growth. According to WebMD, certain deficiencies — like B-vitamins, essential fatty acids and protein — will have a detrimental affect on hair. Crash diets are even worse because they can rob your body (and hair) of vitamins, plus they can stunt and disrupt normal hair growth.
The good news is that a well balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, vitamins and iron will help support scalp health and hair growth. The list may sound familiar, but top foods you should eat include salmon, beans, dark green vegetables, nuts, poultry, eggs, whole grains, oysters, carrots and low-fat dairy products.
What about supplements? Experts warn to steer clear of products promising thicker, fuller or fast-growing hair. Essentially, what’s good for your whole body is good for your hair, so focus on your health, not just your head.
Get a trim. Need a haircut? It’s not just about appearances. The ends of hair can become brittle and prone to breakage. Worse yet, left untended those split ends can travel up the hair shaft and do even more damage. Experts still recommend a good trim every 4-6 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows.
