Winter Hair 101: How To Protect Your Hair From Freezing Temps

Source: Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

While we’re prepared for icy temps in winter, one thing we don’t expect is icicles to form in our hair. Yup, you heard that right, this week the temperatures dropped so low that it froze some of the most coveted (and well treated) locks in the world, like Bella Hadid’s luscious mane. Ok, so while we realize that this is pretty extreme, cooler temperatures combined with increased indoor heating can majorly dry out your hair and induce some serious frizz. Because hair is hygroscopic, which means it matches the moisture content of its environment, if the air is dry, your hair will be too. But don’t worry, we have the lowdown on the products that’ll provide your hair with a surge of moisture, transforming even the thirstiest locks.

Our Fave Hair-Saving Products:

L’Oréal Extraordinary Oil Nourishing Masque Balm

Source: L’Oréal

This drugstore hair mask is our go-to treatment whenever our hair is looking a little dry. It contains six nourishing flower extracts including rose, lotus, sunflower, and chamomile, which are bursting with antioxidants and fatty acids to seal in moisture, protect your hair from split ends, and boost shine. Oh, and it smells SO good!

How to use: Apply to shampooed hair, focusing on the ends and leave on for three to five minutes (no need to follow with conditioner). Do this 1-2 times a week.

Shop it here, $5

Kérastase Nutritive Range

Source: Kérastase

If you’re looking to invest in hair care, then the Kerastase range is a must! Within a week of using this nourishing range, you’ll be able to notice a major difference – we’re talking frizz free and shiny AF hair. The Lait Vital Conditioner, $34, features a unique blend of proteins and natural oils to soften hair fibers without adding weight. It also contains a lipid agent to even out fiber surface and prevent split ends from forming. The Nectar Thermique Blow Dry Primer, $37, is also essential if you use heat styling tools, as it’s infused with royal jelly and fruit extracts for intense smoothness and shine.

How to use: Apply the conditioner to shampooed, towel-dried hair. Leave on for two minutes and then rinse with warm water. Apply a dime-sized amount of the heat protecting primer to damp hair. Detangle with a comb but do not rinse.

Shop the range here.

OUAI Treatment Masque

Source: OUAI

Ever since celeb stylist Jen Atkin founded OUAI, she’s been making our hair look more flawless wash by wash, and this hair mask makes our brittle locks hydrated AF. The gel formula is infused with proteins to seal the hair cuticle and prevent moisture loss. We love that these are individually packed, so they’re perfect for glammers-on-the-go.

How to use: You can apply this mask to wet or dry hair, and you can even sleep in it overnight. Just make sure you wash it thoroughly with shampoo afterward. Jen also recommends applying it to your hair before a workout so that your hair absorbs the heat and moisture in the air.

Shop it here, $32.

Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Oil

Source: Living Proof

This award-winning oil will give your hair some much needed TLC, helping you conquer winter frizz by sealing the hair cuticle with its patented healthy hair molecule. The five oil blend mimics the oil found in healthy hair to condition dry hair and fight against humidity.

How to use: Work one-to-two pumps through damp or dry sectioned hair. If applying to curly hair, warm the product in your hands and then gently twist the curls between your palms.

Shop here, $20.

Our Fave DIY Hair Mask:

This all-natural DIY contains three ingredients that you probably already have in your fridge. Avocado is one of our fave DIY ingredients (and Adriana Lima’s) as it’s bursting with fatty acids and omegas that’ll replenish and moisturize the hair follicle. Olive oil will add weight and moisture, taming flyaways and preventing split ends from forming. The coconut oil will even prevent hair fall as it’s a source of AHA, lauric acid.

1/2 avocado, pitted
2 Tablespoons coconut oil
2 Tablespoons olive oil

Melt the coconut oil in a bowl and then mix in the olive oil. Mash the avocado completely until smooth (you can use a food processor, but make sure only to pump it). Add the mask to clean hair and wrap with a plastic bag or shower cap. Let it sit for 30 minutes before washing your hair with shampoo and conditioner.

Winter Hair Care Tips:

Be careful when towel-drying: When twisting your hair in a towel, you’ll create tension and could potentially cause damage. Instead, gently blot your hair dry with a soft t-shirt then blast it dry with cool air. You should also avoid tying your hair up when it’s damp as wet hair is heavier so it can strain the follicle as well as increasing drying time.

Limit heat exposure: Extreme heat will strip the natural oils from your hair so try to wash your hair with lukewarm water. If you can bear the icy temp, end your shower with a surge of cold water as this will smooth the cuticle and help fight frizz.

Use a heat protection spray: Inevitably, during the winter, you’ll use heat styling tools, so make sure you use protection. Think of it as sunscreen for your hair, protecting your hair from damage and enabling your hair to retain its natural oils. We love the TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Heat Protection Shine Spray, $7.

Let us know your winter hair tips in the comments below.