19 Ways to Protect Hair from Cold Weather - Naturally, with Products, & for All Hair Types

Learning how to protect your hair from the cold weather is essential to maintain its health and beauty.

In this article we’re going to discuss –

How to Protect Hair from Cold Weather
10 Ways to Protect Hair from Cold Temperatures
Can Cold Weather Damage Hair?
What Happens to Hair in the Cold?
What Happens if you Don’t Cover your Hair in the Cold?
5 Tips to Keep your Hair Healthy in the Winter
How to Protect Hair from Cold in Winter
How to Protect Hair from Cold for Black Hair
Winter Hair Care Tips for Find Hair
Best Winter Hair Care Products

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How to Protect Hair from Cold Weather

Harsh winter conditions can lead to dryness, breakage, and frizz, but with the right precautions, you can prevent damage and keep your hair looking its best.

10 Ways to Protect Hair from Cold Temperatures

Here are some effective tips on how to protect your hair from cold weather:

Deep Conditioning

Deep conditioning is crucial during the cold weather to maintain the moisture balance of your hair. Use a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week to nourish and hydrate your hair, preventing it from becoming dry and brittle.

Look for a deep conditioner that is rich in moisture, such as one with ingredients like shea butter or argan oil.

Limit Heat Styling

During winter, minimize the use of heat styling tools like flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers. Excessive heat can further dry out your hair, leading to increased breakage and damage.

If you must use heat styling, always use a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature on the lowest setting possible.

Wear a Hat or Scarf

Covering your hair with a hat or scarf when venturing out into the cold weather is a simple yet effective way to protect it. Hats and scarves act as a barrier against the cold winds, snow, and rain, reducing the risk of moisture loss and damage. Make sure to choose a hat or scarf that is made of a gentle fabric, such as silk or satin, to minimize friction and static.

Avoid Wet Hair

Wet hair is more susceptible to damage, especially in the cold weather. When going outside, be sure to dry your hair thoroughly to prevent it from freezing and becoming brittle. If you need to wash your hair, try to do it earlier in the day to allow enough time for it to dry completely before facing the cold weather.

Use a Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner

Using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner is essential for protecting your hair from the cold weather. Look for products that are specifically formulated to hydrate and nourish dry hair. Avoid shampoos that contain sulfates as they can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness and frizz.

Trim Regularly

Regular trims are important year-round, but even more so during the winter. Trimming your hair every 6-8 weeks helps to eliminate split ends and breakage, keeping your hair healthier overall. By removing damaged ends, you can prevent the cold weather from exacerbating existing issues and maintain the appearance of your hair.

Protect Your Hair While Sleeping

Even while sleeping, your hair needs protection from the cold weather. Consider using a satin or silk pillowcase to avoid excessive friction and help retain moisture. You can also wrap your hair in a silk scarf or wear a satin bonnet to protect it from drying out during the night.

Limit Washing

Frequent washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and more vulnerable to damage in cold weather. Try to space out your wash days and opt for dry shampoo or other hair-refreshing products in between washes. This will help to maintain the natural oils that protect and moisturize your hair.

Stay Hydrated

While it may not seem directly related, staying hydrated during the colder months can significantly impact the health of your hair. Dry, heated indoor environments can dehydrate the body, including your hair. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain proper hydration from the inside out.

Use Protective Styles

Protective hairstyles can help shield your hair from the cold weather elements. Consider wearing styles such as braids, buns, or twists that tuck your ends away and minimize exposure. These styles also reduce manipulation, which can lead to breakage and frizz.

By following these tips, you can protect your hair from the harsh effects of cold weather and maintain its health and beauty throughout the winter season. Remember to adjust your hair care routine as necessary, paying attention to your hair’s specific needs and condition.

Can Cold Weather Damage Hair?

Yes, cold weather can damage your hair if proper precautions are not taken. Winter conditions, such as cold winds, low humidity, and indoor heating, can result in several hair-related issues, including dryness, breakage, frizz, and a lack of shine.

The combination of these can leave your hair more vulnerable and prone to damage.

One of the main reasons cold weather can damage hair is because it causes moisture loss.

Cold air lacks humidity, and coupled with the dry indoor environment, can dehydrate your hair, leaving it dry and brittle. This lack of moisture affects the hair’s overall health, making it prone to breakage and split ends.

Cold temperatures can also cause the cuticles of the hair strands to lift, resulting in increased frizz and a rough texture. Additionally, the exposure to harsh winds can tangle and knot hair, leading to increased breakage when attempting to detangle.

hats to use to protect hair from cold weather

What Happens to Hair in the Cold?

When exposed to cold weather, several changes occur in the hair due to the environmental conditions. Here’s what happens to hair in the cold:

Dryness

The cold weather can strip the hair of its natural oils, resulting in dryness and dullness. This dryness can further lead to increased frizz, breakage, and static electricity.

Lack of Moisture

Cold air lacks humidity, causing moisture to evaporate from the hair shaft. This lack of moisture can make the hair more brittle and susceptible to damage.

Cuticle Damage

Cold air can cause the cuticles of the hair to lift, making the hair more porous. This leads to increased frizz and a rough, dull appearance.

Breakage and Split Ends

The combination of dryness, lack of moisture, and increased brittleness can result in breakage and split ends. The hair becomes weaker and more prone to damage.

Static Electricity

The dry air in winter causes an increase in static electricity, leading to flyaways and tangled hair.

Reduced Shine

Cold weather can make the hair lose its natural shine and luster, leaving it looking dull and lifeless.

What Happens if you Don’t Cover your Hair in the Cold?

If you don’t cover your hair in the cold weather, it can experience various negative effects that can impact its health and appearance. Here are some key consequences of not protecting your hair in the cold:

👉 Increased Dryness

Exposing your hair to cold air without protection can result in significant moisture loss. The cold air and low humidity can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle, and more prone to breakage.

👉 Frizz and Tangles

The combination of cold winds and low humidity can lead to increased frizz and tangled hair. The dry air causes the hair cuticles to lift, allowing moisture to escape and creating an environment for frizz and tangles to form.

👉 Breakage and Split Ends

Without protection, the cold weather can cause breakage and split ends. The lack of moisture and increased brittleness in the hair can result in weak strands that easily break or split.

👉 Dull, Lifeless Hair

When exposed to the cold weather, the hair can lose its natural shine and appear dull and lifeless. The combination of dryness, lack of moisture, and cuticle damage can leave the hair looking lackluster and unhealthy.

👉 Increased Static Electricity

Not covering your hair in the cold can lead to excessive static electricity. This can result in flyaways, tangled hair, and an overall unruly appearance.

👉 Scalp Issues

The cold weather can also affect the health of your scalp. Exposing your scalp to cold air can cause dryness and irritation, leading to itchiness and dandruff.

To avoid these negative outcomes, it is important to protect your hair by –

Wearing hats, scarves, or other head coverings when venturing out into the cold weather.

tips to keep your hair healthy in the winter

Hats to Protect Hair from Cold Weather

Hooded Hat-Scarf Wrap for $16.75

3 Piece Women’s Beanie Pom Pom Winter Hat for $19.99

Winter Wool Knit Hat with Small Visor for $9.49

Thick, Soft, Warm, Knit, Stretch, Casual Beanie for $6.29

Scarves to Protect Hair in Cold Weather

Winter Knitted Hooded Warm Shawl Wrap Scarf for $19.99

Fall/Winter Classic Plaid Chunky Blanket Scarf Wrap for $13.99

Women’s Winter Infinity Circle Head Hair Wrap/Scarf for $9.99

These protective measures act as a barrier against the harsh elements, helping to retain moisture and preserve the health and beauty of your hair.

5 Tips to Keep your Hair Healthy in the Winter

Maintaining healthy hair during the winter months requires extra care and attention. The cold weather, combined with dry indoor heating, can lead to various hair issues. However, with the following tips, you can keep your hair healthy and vibrant throughout the winter season:

Hydrate and moisturize

Proper hydration is essential for healthy hair, especially during the winter when the air is dry. Drink plenty of water to ensure your body and hair receive enough moisture. Additionally, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair hydrated. Look for products that contain ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or glycerin to retain moisture and prevent dryness.

Limit heat styling

Avoid excessive heat styling during the winter months as it can further dry out your hair. Heat from styling tools like flat irons and curling wands strips your hair of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness and breakage. If you must use heat styling, always apply a heat protectant spray and use the lowest temperature setting to minimize damage.

Deep condition regularly

Deep conditioning treatments provide intense hydration and nourishment to your hair, combating winter dryness. Use a deep conditioner once a week or as needed to restore moisture and strengthen your strands. For added hydration, cover your hair with a shower cap or warm towel while the deep conditioner works its magic.

Protect your hair from the cold

Covering your hair with hats, scarves, or other head coverings is vital to protect it from the harsh cold weather. Choose hats made of gentle fabrics like silk or satin to minimize friction and static. Ensure your head covering is loose enough to allow for proper circulation and avoid trapping moisture, which can lead to mold or scalp issues.

Trim regularly

Regular trims are essential for maintaining healthy hair, regardless of the season. Trimming your hair every 6-8 weeks helps to eliminate split ends and prevent further damage. By getting rid of the damaged ends, you can keep your hair healthy and prevent the cold weather from exacerbating any existing issues.

is it bad to keep your hair uncovered in the very cold

4 More Tips to Protect Hair from Cold in Winter

Protecting your hair from the cold in winter is crucial to maintain its health and prevent damage. Here are some effective ways to protect your hair from the cold weather during winter:

Avoid wet hair

Ensure your hair is dry before going outside to prevent it from freezing and becoming more susceptible to breakage. If you need to wash your hair, do it earlier in the day to allow enough time for it to dry completely before facing the cold weather.

Protect your hair while sleeping

Wrap your hair in a silk scarf or wear a satin bonnet to protect it from drying out overnight. Consider using a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction and help retain moisture.

Limit washing

Frequent washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and vulnerable to damage in the cold weather. Space out your wash days and use dry shampoo or other hair-refreshing products in between.

Use protective styles

Consider wearing protective hairstyles like braids, buns, or twists to shield your hair from the cold weather elements. These styles tuck your ends away and minimize exposure, reducing breakage and frizz.

By following these tips, you can effectively protect your hair from the cold weather and maintain its health and beauty throughout the winter season.

How to Protect Hair from Cold for Black Hair

Black hair requires specific care and protection to combat the effects of cold weather. Besides the tips above, here are a few more tips that might be extra helpful for extra curly hair and help to protect black hair from the cold.

Choose gentle fabrics: When wearing hats or scarves, opt for those made of silk or satin. These fabrics minimize friction and help retain moisture in your hair.
Avoid over-washing: Black hair tends to be dry, so over-washing can strip away natural oils. Limit washing to once or twice a week and use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that provide moisture and hydration.
Oil treatments: Regularly apply natural oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil to your hair and scalp. These oils help to seal in moisture and keep your hair hydrated.
Protect your ends: Black hair is more prone to dryness and breakage at the ends. Keep your ends moisturized and protected by sealing them with oil or using products specifically formulated to target split ends.

Winter Hair Care Tips for Fine Hair

Fine hair requires special care during the winter months to prevent damage and maintain volume. Here are some winter hair care tips for fine hair:

Use a volumizing styling products

Fine hair tends to lack volume, and cold weather can make it appear flat. Use a volumizing styling product, such as a push powder, to add body and lift to your hair.

Avoid heavy styling products

Heavy styling products can weigh down fine hair, making it look even flatter, such as gel, heavy hairspray, or deep conditioners too often. Opt for lightweight products that provide hold and control without sacrificing volume.

Dry shampoo for volume

Dry shampoo can be a lifesaver for fine hair in winter. It helps to absorb excess oil at the roots and adds volume and texture. Apply dry shampoo sparingly to avoid buildup and distribute it evenly.

Protect your hair from the cold

Wear a hat or scarf to shield your hair from the cold winds and prevent moisture loss. Choose hats or scarves made of gentle fabrics to minimize friction and static.

Use a wide-tooth comb

Fine hair is more prone to breakage and tangling. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently remove knots and prevent unnecessary damage.

3 Pack Durable Wide Tooth Detangling Combs for $5.99

Deep condition carefully

Deep conditioning can provide much-needed moisture to fine hair, but be cautious with the amount and application. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the roots to prevent weighing down your hair. If applied too often it can begin to buildup and weigh the hair down.

Experiment with updos and other hairstyles

Fine hair can benefit from updos and hairstyles that add volume and texture. Consider trying hairstyles like loose buns, half-up styles, or braids to give your hair a fuller appearance.

By implementing these winter hair care tips, you can protect and maintain the health and volume of your fine hair during the cold weather months.

how to protect hair from cold weather for black hair

Best Winter Hair Care Products

Taking care of your hair during the winter requires the use of high-quality products that address the specific needs created by the cold weather. Here are some of the best winter hair care products to protect and nourish your hair:

Moisturizing shampoo and conditioner

Look for shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for dry or damaged hair. These products are designed to add moisture and hydration to your hair, combating the dryness caused by cold weather.

SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo and Conditioner is an excellent option for moisturizing and restoring dry, damaged hair.

Shea Moisture Moisture Retention Shampoo & Conditioner Bundle 13oz Each for $18.98

Deep conditioning treatment

A weekly deep conditioning treatment is crucial for keeping your hair hydrated and nourished during the winter.

The SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Hair Mask is a highly effective treatment that helps repair, restore, and moisturize dry hair.

SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Hair Mask 11.5oz for $11.97

Leave-in conditioner

A leave-in conditioner provides extra moisture and protection, helping to combat dryness and frizz.

The It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product is a cult favorite that moisturizes, detangles, and adds shine without weighing the hair down.

It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product 4oz for $15.99

Original Sprout Tahitian Non-Greasy Hair Oil 4oz for $24.41

Heat protectant spray

If you must use heat styling tools during winter, a heat protectant spray is essential to guard against damage.

The ghd Heat Protect Spray offers heat protection up to 450°F and helps to reduce breakage and split ends.

ghd Bodyguard Heat Protectant Spray 4oz for $25

Dry shampoo

Dry shampoo is a must-have for refreshing your hair without frequent washing.

Batiste Dry Shampoo is a popular choice that absorbs excess oil, adds volume, and extends the time between washes.

Batiste Dry Shampoo Original 5.7oz for $9.02

Hair oil

Nourishing hair oils can provide intense hydration and help combat dryness and frizz.

The Moroccan Oil Treatment Original is a versatile oil that nourishes, strengthens, and adds shine to all hair types.

Moroccan Oil Treatment Original 3.4oz for $45.60

Anti-frizz serum

Cold weather can lead to increased frizz and static electricity. An anti-frizz serum, such as the John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum, helps to tame frizz and flyaways, leaving your hair smooth and manageable.

John Freida Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum 1.6oz for $9.96

Silk or satin pillowcase

Using a silk or satin pillowcase reduces friction and helps to retain moisture in your hair overnight. The Slip Silk Pillowcase is made of high-quality silk and is gentle on your hair and skin.

Bedsure Satin Pillowcases For Hair and Skin – 2 Pack For $8.99

Investing in these best winter hair care products ensures that your hair receives the necessary nourishment and protection to withstand the harsh conditions of the cold weather.

19 Ways to Protect Hair from Cold Weather – Naturally, with Products, & for All Hair Types