Winter in Ottawa means bring on the hot cocoa, holiday movies and festive parties.
While the holiday season brings joy, it’s hard to ignore the cold and dreary weather that comes along with this time of year. Cold weather can wreak havoc on your hair, leading to dry, tangled strands and an itchy scalp.
Looking for some expert advice on tackling these hair struggles? Check out the following tips and ask one of our stylists at Salon130 at your next appointment for their expert opinion on all your hair needs!
1. Static
Hats, scarves, hoods, oh my! Sounds like static waiting to happen.
Not only can static be minimized, but with a few simple products and strategies you can prevent it from returning in full force. Here’s a great hack to tame those unruly strands.
- Keep a box of dryer sheets in your cubicle drawer or gym bag
- Swipe a sheet over your hair once you get to work or before that holiday party and you’ll be good to go
You can also prevent static by sleeping on a silky pillowcase and avoiding towel-drying strands. Cotton-based pillowcases and towels dry out your hair, leaving it extra frizzy.
Use hydrating hair products when washing and finish off with a smoothing serum. Have curly hair? Use a diffuser attachment when blow-drying hair, which helps maintain the definition of your natural curls, rather than blowing them out of shape.
Keeping a serum or hand cream in your bag is also a must. Rub product between palms and lightly apply to ends to minimize static and frizz.
2. Dry, Damaged Ends
Cold air outdoors and dry heat inside is a brutal combination for your hair, leaving it dry and damaged. However, there are several ways to repair your ends and prevent further damage.
First, treat your hair to a rich and hydrating conditioner with each wash. Apply from the ear-level down and leave in for at least a few minutes before rinsing.
Avoid brushing wet hair, as this is when your hair is in its most delicate state. Instead, run your fingers or a wide-tooth comb carefully through your ends.
Every week or so, indulge in a deep conditioning mask with powerful healing benefits. Leave on your hair longer and rinse with cool water to lock in moisture.
Let your hair air dry whenever possible, to avoid contributing to further damage. On the other hand, going outside with wet hair can be just as bad for your hair. In a rush? Blow dry on a cool setting.
3. Dandruff
Dry, itchy scalp is a regular occurrence for most in the winter months.
But with the right combination of products and strategies you can control dandruff and reduce irritation.
If you struggle with a flaky scalp, tea tree oil products might be your best friend. Try a tea tree rich shampoo and conditioner and focus extra attention on your scalp. Massage in circular motions over entire scalp. Exfoliation is a great way to slough off dead skin cells, and stimulate new cell growth.
No matter what products you try, make sure that you consistently use one for several weeks before testing out something new, to make sure you can clearly determine which products work best for you.
Salon130 sells a number of professional hair products for every hair need and our expert stylists can help you find one that’s most tailored to your needs.
Scalp still super dehydrated? Try massaging coconut oil over the entire scalp and leaving on for a few hours before deep cleansing in the shower.
4. Tangles
Longhaired girls beware. Scarves, hats and zippers mixed with winter winds can lead to tons of tangles!
It’s worth investing in a brush specifically designed to tackle those knots. Stashing a mini brush in your bag can be a lifesaver.
There are also a number of ways to prevent knots. First, running a wide tooth comb through ends while the conditioner is still in your hair can be a great way to detangle without causing breakage.
Avoid rough towel drying, which can encourage additional tangles. Spritz your towel-dried strands with leave-in conditioner to prevent tangles as your hair dries.
Before your morning commute, style hair in a loose braid or low bun to prevent the wind from messing with it. Avoid harsh hair ties, and instead opt for soft scrunchies.
Same goes for sleeping, which can mess up your strands. Cotton pillowcases can be rough on your hair. Try out a silk pillowcase and scrunchie to be extra gentle.
5. Flat Hat Hair
Constant hat wearing can leave your hair looking flat and lack-luster. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to bring your hair back to life.
First, avoid putting on a hat while your hair is still damp. Instead, ensure hair is fully dry before leaving the house.
Apply a volumizing spray to the root and flip your hair upside down when blow drying to add extra volume.
Another great option for fine or flat hair is a hot air brush, which allows you to quickly dry and style hair at the same time, while maximizing volume at the root.
Salon130 - Your Ottawa Hair Partner in Winter and Year-Round
Whatever your winter hair struggle, we’re here to help!
Not only do the stylists at Salon130 have the knowledge to provide you expert advice on your every hair need, but the salon also sells a number of professional products specifically tailored to your hair.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment today in preparation for the intense winter to come here in Ottawa. Be sure to book soon, since the holiday season is a busy time at our salon and spots will fill up fast!
