Dry, brittle locks are one of the most common issues of curly, kinky hair. The harshness of cold weather can quickly cause dry cuticles to split causing breakage and unmanageable afros. I’ve seen my hair health progress since the stay-at-home orders. And I’d want to guard against the damaging effects of the bitter cold. I’m pretty sure you can relate. Make note of these tips to keep your crown full, thriving, and shiny come spring.
1. Trim Your Hair Ends
When you’re wearing a protective style, it’s always good to start with root to tip healthy hair. That means doing away with thinning, knotted, split hair ends. Since split ends can potentially wreak havoc on your tress while they are secured in braids, weaves, or mini-twists. Make sure the scissor are sharp and the hair is dry for the best even results.
2. Wear Hats or Wigs
Winter fashion is one of my favorites. If I’m giving my wig a break, I’ll opt for satin-lined knit beanies or fedoras for a high fashion look that protects my kinks. The satin lining is very important since materials like wool absorb moisture very well, aiding the bitterly, cold winds in stealing your hair’s hydration.
3. Swap Herbal Teas for Hot Chocolate
Moderation is the key when it comes on to sweets. Sugar triggers inflammation which can damage your hair follicles, and lead to hair loss over time. No one is saying, you can’t have an extra slice of cake or snag the last cookie, but you can choose to detox with herbal teas to aid hair and overall health.
4. Eat and Drink Your Water
Products can only do so much, what you consume matters too. To be honest, I’m not a water drinker but I do consume foods loaded with moisture to keep my scalp and mane hydrated from the inside. Think watermelons, avocados, strawberries, spinach, and apples.
5. Use Natural Remedies for Dry Scalp
When writing about cleansing the scalp, I doubt you’ll ever see me not mention the ability of some products to strip your follicles of moisture and natural oils. This harshness coupled with the cold air can quickly lead to breakage. I wouldn’t recommend using strong dandruff shampoos in the winter. Instead, you can try drinking more water. Deep conditioning between washes, and using aloe gel to do scalp massages.
6. Sleep With A Humidifier
The reason you see your breath is because cool-weather dries the air. A humidifier serves to put the moisture back in the air of your home which can keep your hair and skin from drying out while you sleep. Your hair and body will thank you for investing in a humidifier plus satin bonnets, sheets, and pillowcases.
7. Deep Condition Your Tress
For every wash, make sure to deep condition. The rich cream of deep conditioners moisturizes, strengthens, and helps keeps your hair soft and manageable until your next wash day. You determine what regular deep conditioning means. Some do it every 3-4 days, others every month. It all depends on how your hair reacts to the treatment.
How do you protect your hair during the winter? Share your length retention winter tips in the comments!
SHBM Contributor,
Chrissy