Winter has arrived, and while the cozy sweaters are peak aesthetic, the cold, dry air? Not so much. It’s basically the villain your hair didn’t ask for. The drop in temperature and humidity can leave your hair dry, brittle, and far from looking the best. But this time - you can still win this winter hair battle.
With a few simple hair care expert tips from the celebrity hairstylist Brandon Mayberry, your hair can stay hydrated, healthy, and fabulous all season long. Here's how:
1. Upgrade to a Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner.
Cold weather means it’s time to amp up the moisture, starting with your shampoo and conditioner. Swap out harsh, sulfate-filled shampoos (they strip away your natural oils) for something gentler and more hydrating. Pair it with a rich, creamy conditioner that gives your strands the love they need. Look for superstar ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or coconut oil - basically, a big cozy hug for your hair.
' My first tip is to clarify the hair. Often, we keep adding more and more products to moisturize our hair when it feels dry, but the first step to properly moisturizing is to remove any buildup.' - Brandon, Celebrity Hairstylist.
Pro Tip: Over-washing makes things worse! Try cutting back to 2–3 washes a week to lock in more natural moisture.
2. Deep Condition Weekly.
Think of deep conditioning as a spa day for your hair - and let’s be honest, winter calls for extra pampering. Use a deep conditioner or mask once a week to add moisture and repair any damage. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, where your hair tends to be driest.
'Always make sure to brush through conditioner or hair masks and let them sit. The number one cause I’ve found for dry hair is that many people don’t brush through their conditioner! This leads to areas that aren’t coated, leaving you with patches of dry, frizzy hair.' - Brandon, Celebrity Hairstylist.
3. Protect Your Hair from the Cold.
Wind, freezing temps, and indoor heating? Recipe for disaster. Protect your hair by wearing a beanie or scarf when you’re outside. To avoid hat hair (because we’ve all been there), go for a satin-lined beanie or wrap your hair in a silk scarf underneath your hat. These materials are gentler on your strands and help prevent breakage caused by friction.
'Make sure your hats and scarves are lined with satin or silk. There are many brands that make satin-lined beanies, and they’re fantastic for protecting your hair during the winter months!' - Brandon, Celebrity Hairstylist.
4. Don't forget using a Leave-In Conditioner or Hair Oil.
Meet your winter BFFs: leave-in conditioners and lightweight hair oils. They’re like a shield, locking in moisture and keeping dry air out. Apply a little to damp or dry hair, focusing on your ends. Argan oil, jojoba oil, and aloe vera are your best bets for deep hydration.
5. Cut Back on Heat Styling.
Straight hair and bouncy curls are party staples. But cranking up the heat on your hair can make winter dryness worse. Limit how often you use hot tools, and always use a heat protectant spray when you do. Or better yet, rock your natural texture. It’s winter-chic and low-effort.
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6. Show Your Scalp Some Love.
A dry, flaky scalp isn’t exactly festive. Massage a nourishing oil, like coconut or castor oil, into your scalp once a week to hydrate and boost circulation. You can also use a gentle exfoliating scrub to remove any product buildup and dead skin - because healthy hair starts at the roots.
7. Don’t Forget Hair Extensions and Wigs.
Extensions and wigs need care too! Treat extensions like your natural hair - keep them moisturized with sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments. If you’re wearing human hair wigs, wash and condition regularly, and use a serum or lightweight oil to keep them soft and shiny. Store wigs on a stand to prevent tangling and shape loss.
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8. Hydrate from the Inside Out.
Your hair is a reflection of your overall health, so make hydration a priority. Drink plenty of water and load up on foods rich in omega-3s (like salmon and walnuts) and biotin (found in eggs and nuts). Not only will your hair thank you, but your skin will glow up too - bonus!
9. Trim The Split Ends.
Winter can really do a number on your ends, causing split ends and breakage. Regular trims (every 6–8 weeks) keep your hair looking healthy and fresh. Growing it out? Ask your stylist for a “dusting” - just the very tips get snipped, so you keep the length but lose the damage.
10. Add a Humidifier to Your Space.
One sneaky culprit of winter dryness? Indoor heating. It sucks moisture out of the air - and your hair. Adding a humidifier to your room can help restore moisture, keeping your hair (and skin) happy. Put it in your bedroom or workspace, and let it work its magic.
Final Thoughts.
Winter doesn’t have to ruin your hair game. With just a few simple adjustments, you can keep your hair protected, hydrated, and looking gorgeous. Whether you’re rocking your natural hair, extensions, or a wig, the key is hydration. Now go out there and slay, winter queen - your hair’s got this!
