As winter’s chill sets in, many individuals notice their hair becoming drier and more brittle. This is especially true for those with wavy, curly, or textured hair, which can be more susceptible to dryness, breakage, and scalp irritation during colder months. Cold air and central heating can strip moisture from hair, leading to flaky, itchy scalps and weakened strands.
Celebrity hairstylist Jennie Roberts, a textured hair expert at SheaMoisture, shares valuable advice on how to protect and hydrate hair during the winter season. Roberts, known for her work with The Spice Girls and for promoting curly and coily hair in the 1990s, emphasizes the importance of hydration and moisture for keeping hair healthy throughout the winter.
With extensive training at Vidal Sassoon Hair Academy and as the founder of the Jennie Roberts Hair Academy, Roberts has plenty of expert tips to help you winter-proof your hair. Here are her four essential winter hair care tips:
Use Steaming for Deep Hydration: Steaming is a powerful way to open the hair cuticle and allow conditioning ingredients to deeply penetrate the hair shaft. Roberts explains that steaming is especially beneficial for natural and curly hair, which is more prone to dryness. “Steaming also helps improve scalp health by loosening dirt and dead skin cells, reducing dandruff,” she says. To steam hair at home, simply wrap a warm towel around your head or use a shower cap for a simple, effective treatment.
Apply Moisturizing Hair Masks: Hair masks are an excellent way to nourish dry, damaged hair and add moisture. Unlike regular conditioners, hair masks can be left on for longer to provide intense hydration. According to Roberts, a weekly deep conditioning treatment is key for boosting moisture. “Treatments enriched with castor oil and shea butter are ideal for strengthening and moisturizing hair, keeping it well-conditioned in the colder months,” Roberts recommends. She advises applying the mask to damp hair after shampooing and leaving it on for at least 10 minutes for optimal results.
Embrace Protective Styling: Braids, such as Boho and Goddess styles, can offer both protection and style during winter. These reimagined versions of classic ’90s box braids help prevent breakage while keeping hair hydrated. However, Roberts warns that it’s important to use a lightweight leave-in conditioner to avoid the tension and manipulation that come with braiding, which could lead to damage.
Hydrate Between Wash Days: Maintaining moisture between wash days is essential for healthy hair. Roberts suggests using a water-based leave-in conditioner infused with nourishing oils to refresh hair and prevent it from drying out between washes. “This helps keep hair supple and reduces the risk of breakage caused by dryness,” she explains.
By incorporating these simple but effective tips, you can protect your hair from the harsh winter elements and maintain healthy, hydrated strands throughout the season.
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