A little chill has hit the air and many naturals are already revamping their hair regimens and trying to figure out what to do with their natural hair this winter. It’s no secret that the winter months can be harsh on kinky hair so, figuring out your options and what precautions should you take this winter will ensure your natural hair won’t suffer a setback.
Here are some tips (ya’ll know I love a list) on how to maintain a healthy hair regimen in the winter months:
- Sealing: This is number 1 on my list and the most important precaution to me. Sealing in the moisture is so important in the Winter when the winds can strip away every ounce of moisture you thought you had. This is the time to use heavy oils and butters such as: shea butter, mango butter, olive oil, and jojoba oil. These oils can feel a bit heavy in the summer months but, are perfect for the colder weather. Moisturize your hair with a dependable leave-in conditioner and seal thoroughly with an oil or butter.
- Protective Styling: I’m not a big fan of protective styles (mainly b/c I am style challenged) but, keeping your ends tucked and away from the winds, helps them retain moisture. While some naturals can wear their out with no problems, many can not so pay attention to your hair and style accordingly. Buns, wigs, twists, and updos are great hairstyles for the Winter months.
- Humectants: It’s best to use glycerin, honey, and other humectants sparingly during the winter. With the air being dry their is no water for the humectants to attract with can leave you with dry, brittle hair. So, if you have products in your rotations that are high in humectants you might want to save these products for the summer months.
The best advice I can give is to listen to your hair, make sure you’re moisturizing often and sealing in the moisture well. If you’re used moisturizing your hair once a week (like me) then you may have to up it to 2-3 times a week and that’s okay.
Baby your hair and keep it protected from the dry air and harsh winds.
Oh and if you have a TWA, since most of you probably can’t protective style, try co-washing. This way your putting moisture to your curls everyday and as much as possible to help your hair handle to dry air.
Hope this helps!
