Top Hair Treatments for Winter
The winter months are known to wreak havoc on our hair. The combination of cold temperatures outside and dry heat inside can lead to split ends and breakage. As temperatures start to dip, normally-healthy hair may need a pick-me-up. Dry or damaged hair could use a boost of moisture. Hair treatments are a simple, effective way of improving your hair’s strength, moisture and health.
Healthy hair is naturally buoyant and surprisingly strong. But let’s say your hair is damaged. Or, you’d like a boost of moisture to revitalize the look and feel of your hair. In that case, a hair treatment to improve strength is for you.
Read on for a list of the top hair treatments for damaged or healthy hair:
Table of Contents
Leave-In Conditioner
Many people don’t realize that hair is significantly more prone to breakage when it’s wet. That’s why brushing your hair when it’s wet, rubbing it with a towel, sleeping on a rough pillowcase or blow drying it can all contribute to damage.
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Leave-in conditioners are a great option for adding a layer of protection when you step out of the shower. Not only do they help shield your hair from potential damage, but they can also boost moisture and leave your hair smoother and shinier. Leave-in conditioners are often a great first step if you want to improve moisture and protect your hair when it’s already healthy.
Olaplex
Olaplex is a salon favorite and cult classic among many customers Rather than smoothing the surface of hair, the three-step treatment actually helps to fight against hair breakage.
The product works at the molecular level, locating and repairing broken bonds, rather than at the surface of the hair follicle. Olaplex can be used at the salon to prevent breakage during the coloring process, or they offer a range of at-home products to repair damaged hair.
Protein Hair Treatments
Protein treatments are a group of hair products that contain absorbable proteins that strengthen your hair. They’re a great way to add body and life back to limp or damaged tresses.
These treatments use magnesium and modified proteins. They penetrate each strand and repair it by filling in the gaps between cuticles. They’re known for adding volume, but they’re also a great solution for hair breakage. Protein treatments come in a variety of forms. Not only shampoo and conditioner sets, but also leave-in products, and even masks.
Just because you have dry hair doesn’t mean you need a protein treatment, though. Protein treatments are best for porous hair. This means hair that’s been damaged from “bleaching, over-chlorination from the pool, or permanent chemical hair treatments like relaxing or perming.” If you have dry hair, try switching to a richer conditioner.
If you do need a protein treatment, also make sure not to overdo it! When you add too much protein to your hair, it can feel coated, dry and brittle. In most cases, protein treatments should be used once a week at most, but your hair technician will know what’s best for you.
Oils to Revitalize Healthy Hair
In addition to olive oil, there are a few other types of oil in your pantry that are great for moisturizing your hair. But, before you reach for the condiments, check with your favorite hair provider to see if using household oils will benefit you.
If you’re ready to look into oils, here’s some options: Avocado oil is a great source of vitamins B and E, which is great for adding moisture and shine. And coconut oil is the oil that’s been shown to best-penetrate hair. Simply warm your chosen oil up, apply it to the sections of your hair you want to condition, and wrap your hair up. You can even leave them in overnight and shampoo and condition your hair the next morning.
Rice Water Rinse
Strange but true! Rice has starch, amino acids, vitamins B and E, and minerals. They’re all great for the health and texture of your hair. Popular for centuries in Japan, China and Southeast Asia, a rice rinse can help detangle and smooth hair, improve shine and make hair stronger, according to Medical News Today.
Next time you make rice, hold onto the water you cooked it with for a rice rinse. After you’ve shampooed, simply pour the rice water onto your hair. Then, massage it into your scalp. After 20 minutes, rinse your hair with warm water and enjoy the results!
Ready to take better care of your hair for the winter? Check below for hair services around the country. But if you don’t see your city, don’t worry. If you head to Booksy, you’ll find a full marketplace of pro top-rated stylists.