Winter Hair, Don't Care

Winter brings all sorts of challenges for you hair. Dry air, wild winds, and going from the cold air outside to the heat inside can really do a number. And let's not forget that static cling! Following some simple steps will have your hair looking great all winter long, and you'll be saying 'Winter hair? Don't care!'

DETANGLE PRE-SHOWER

I've always had the worst tangles. If I wear my hair down I have to make sure I have a brush on hand to give it a good run-through a few times per day. Getting a brush through my hair after the shower when it's wet? Forget it. I've sent more than a few brushes and combs to the graveyard after breaking them trying to get them through my hair. Trying to brush out snarls and snags in wet hair is causing damage to the cuticle. Brush your hair prior to washing if you have tangles. It also makes for easier brushing after the shower!

TURN DOWN THE TEMP

I love hot baths and showers during the winter, but the hot water is actually striping my hair and scalp. Warm water is best to help your open up the hair cuticles, letting shampoo and conditioner penetrate better. A five second cold water rinse is recommended at the end of your shower to help seal the cuticles and boost shine.

CONDITION CORRECTLY

A nickle sized amount of conditioner is a perfect amount for most hair types and lengths. For my fine hair, I only apply conditioner to the ends. This is also best for short hair. If your hair is thick, apply from ear level down. Leave conditioner on for one minute and then rinse out.

RINSE THOROUGHLY

Spend at least one minute under the shower head to properly rinse shampoo and conditioner out of your hair. Running your fingers through your hair lets the water get to every layer.  Left over product can cause build up that dulls shine. Make sure the water runs clear before you stop rinsing.

WASH EVERYDAY

There is no harm in washing your hair everyday... unless you have oily hair. Shampooing oily hair every day can strip your scalp and make it dry, causing your glands to produce even more oil to compensate. If you don't fall into the oily hair category, shampooing your hair everyday won't dry it out if you are using the right shampoo. There are a lot of products out there, so if you're unsure what to use go with a sulfate-free shampoo. It's gentle on all hair types.

DEEP CLEAN ONCE A WEEK

Deep clean DIY! Mix a teaspoon of granulated sugar into your squeeze of shampoo and rub it into your scalp. The sugar gently exfoliates the scalp getting rid of dirt and product residue. Rinse as instructed above. A clarifying shampoo can be used one a month if you tend use use a lot of styling products. A healthy scalp is the base to great hair!

For prefect Winter skin check out Three Secrets to Incredible Skin!