Recently, I realized that a typical day for me has all of the makings of a hair horror story. Styling tools that singe strands. Sun, wind and winter air that rake their fingers through my hair, zapping it of moisture. And hair-raising (literally) static electricity, thanks to my newfound penchant for hats.
Ahhh, winter. Gotta love it, right? The good news is that there are ways to turn your straw-like strands into silk AND stop the static to boot. Here’s some winter hair help!
TO PREVENT BREAKAGE/MOISTURIZE:
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Hydration is your hair’s best friend. Look for “gentle” shampoos and conditioners that are sulfate free, and designed to give your strands a little love. Celebrity hair stylist Charles Baker Strahan’s current obsession is Herbal Essences Touchably Smooth Shampoo and Conditioner. They have a built in smoothing serum to protect against humidity.
Related: 5 Hot Winter Hair Trends
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Stop squeezing every last drop of conditioner out of your hair. You know how great your hair feels after being washed at the salon? That’s how it should feel every time you step out of the shower. If it’s dry and stringy to the touch, you’ve washed the conditioner right out of it.
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Consider shampooing every other day, or even every three days. Shampoo strips hair of its natural oils, so giving your mane a break can really work wonders!
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Indulge in a deep conditioning mask weekly. We're fans of L’Oreal Professionnel Serie Expert Absolut Repair Masque, but you can also create a DIY version at home. Rake coconut oil through your mane, put on a shower cap, and let it work its magic overnight. Rinse in the shower and…voila! Mega hydration.
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Brush hair gently with a boar bristle brush. After you style, run some serum down the length of your hair for added protection.
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Consider using “soft” hair ties, like these celeb favorites by Emi-Jay, to avoid further breakage. (On a side note, how cute and colorful are they? We’ve been obsessed for years.)
Related: Fixes for Your Bad Hair Day!
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Strahan also recommends investing in a satin pillow case. He says it will prevent your hair from being “roughed up” while you sleep. (Plus, let’s be serious…satin sheets? You’ll feel oh-so-A-list!)
TO TAME FLYAWAYS AND STATIC:
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Hair tends to become drier in the winter, so flyways and staticky strands are a common issue. To combat them, try using a light hairspray, a leave-in conditioner, or a serum before walking out the door. Keep a mini version in your bag for on-the-go emergencies.
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Run a dryer sheet over your locks! It’s also great for getting rid of static in your clothes. (Plus, it won’t take up much space in your bag!)
Cricket Company Friction Free Brushes (@crickettools) can also help!
TO PREVENT HAT HAIR:
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When you remove your topper, flip hair over and massage your scalp with your fingers. After you’re done shaking things up, flip your hair back and fix any loose strands. Keep wispy pieces in place with hairspray, or if you’re in a pinch, hand cream.
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Strahan also recommends pulling strands up into your hat. Still having issues? A light mist of water and a quick shake should release the crease.
TO GIVE HAIR A LITTLE EXTRA T-L-C:
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The temperature may be dipping, but the sun is still rising…and shining on our hair! And just like our skin, our strands need protection to stay healthy. Look for products with built-in UV blockers, like the Alterna Professional Haircare Bamboo UV+ Color Protection Collection. These products are like sunscreen for your mane and prevent color fading.
Related: Flat? Frizzy? Find Hair Products that Work!
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Keep your blow dryer on the lowest setting you can handle without wanting to rip the cord out of the wall. (We know, we know. It's difficult!) Also, use the nozzle attachment and point it down the hair shaft to help keep the cuticle smooth and eliminate frizz.
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Strahan recommends spritzing a little leave-in conditioner on locks after showering for a moisture boost.
More from GalTime:
- Blow Dry Bars "Heat Up" The Style Scene
- The "No Shampoo" Movement
- Secrets to Having the Perfect Ponytail
- Do-it-Yourself: Winter Facials
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