Cold weather can be particularly harsh on natural hair because it tends to be more porous. The cold weather can also lead to a decreased production of sebum⎯the natural oil produced by your scalp that helps keep hair moisturized. Without adequate sebum, this is what could lead to hair damage and breakage. This is why your hair may feel more brittle and straw-like during the colder months. Also, cold weather can cause your hair to contract, making it appear shorter and less voluminous. Here's a breakdown of how cold weather affects natural hair and tips on how to manage your hair care routine in the winter.
Ways Cold Weather Can Affect Natural Hair
- Moisture Loss and Dryness⎯Cold weather causes the air to become dry, which can lead to moisture loss from the hair. This affects natural hair because this hair type tends to be more prone to dryness due to the structure of the hair shaft.
- Breakage & Split Ends⎯Cold weather weakens hair fibers, making it more prone to breakage, and split ends can also develop as a result of the dryness. If you get split ends often, you’ll need to get trims regularly to keep your hair healthy.
- Scalp Dryness & Itchiness⎯Scalp can become dry and irritated due to lack of moisture in the air, leading to itchiness and flakiness. Besides hair treatments, scalp massages can help with this to stimulate blood flow and distribute natural oils.
- Harsh Environments⎯Cold winds and low temperatures can cause damage to exposed hair, which makes it more brittle.
- Frizz and Static⎯Dry air increases static electricity, which can cause the hair to frizz and appear less defined.
(CURLfriend Simply Nandi)
Moisture Is Key For Winter Hair Care
One of the most important aspects of winter hair care is ensuring that your hair remains adequately moisturized. Moisture is the foundation of healthy hair, and during the cold months, it's essential to focus on hydration. Incorporate deep conditioning treatments into your routine to provide moisture and nourishment to your hair.
Wear Protective Hairstyles
Protective hairstyles are a great way to shield your natural hair from the cold weather while also giving it a break from daily styling. Styles such as braids, twists, and buns help reduce exposure to harsh elements and minimize manipulation to help prevent damage and breakage. When choosing a protective style, be sure that it's not too tight or restrictive because this can cause tension on your scalp and lead to hair loss. Opt for styles that allow your scalp to breathe and promote healthy hair growth. Rotate your styles regularly to prevent stress on any particular area of your scalp.
Managing natural hair in cold weather requires adjusting your hair care routine to focus on moisture retention, protection, and avoiding damage. Prioritizing hydration, protective styles, and using the right products can help minimize the adverse effects of the cold season, keeping your hair healthy, moisturized, and strong.
Here are EDEN products we recommend to help you manage the cold weather effects on your hair.
- Lavender Aloe CoWash⎯ A conditioning cleanser that doesn't strip curls and coils
- Lavender Aloe Deep Conditioner⎯ Strengthens strands and gives elasticity to coils
- Coconut Shea Hair Masque Treatment⎯ Repairs brittle hair from dry environments
