Frizzy, fluffy, and hat-hair prone? Follow these five expert-approved steps to keep unruly strands in check and maintain smooth, sleek hair all winter
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When it comes to seasonal frizz, we often reminisce about the humidity of summer making our hair stand on end. However, it’s crucial to remember that winter brings its own set of complex hair challenges. Fluctuations in temperature — from damp and humid to cold and dry — can leave hair more unmanageable than ever.
“Cold air contains less moisture, which makes hair more prone to being static and dry,” explains hairstylist Cim Mahony, whose clients include everyone from supermodel Kate Moss to HRH Queen Mary of Denmark. “The lack of sweat and natural oils on our scalps during this time of year can also cause baby hair to frizz at the roots and hairline.” For women with Afro hair, this can be even more pronounced, as the hair’s coiled structure means it takes longer for natural oils to travel from the scalp to the ends.
As we step gingerly into the cooler months, we round up the five things we all should know about taming frizz in winter:
Brush from root to tip
When detangling your hair, don’t shy away from brushing out of fear of creating static. “Use a Mason Pearson brush on dry hair every night,” advises Mahony. “The wild boar bristles gently massage the scalp and distribute natural oils, helping to combat frizz.”
Make sure your hair is hydrated
A key factor behind increased frizz is a distinct lack of moisture. To combat this, Mahony suggests a two-pronged approach. “As the first step in your sleek strand routine, mix a little oil into your shampoo during washes, as hair needs extra nourishment and weight to fight frizz,” he recommends. “Then, at night, comb a leave-in conditioner through the mid-lengths and ends – my favourite is Less Is More’s Lavender Smooth Balm, enriched with softening mallow extract and coconut oils.”
Smooth styling
Leave it to Dyson to create a smoothing attachment for their Supersonic hair dryer, designed specifically to combat flyaway strands. The aptly named Flyaway attachment has gained cult status for its unique curved design, which directs airflow to create what the brand calls the ‘Coanda effect’—a phenomenon that attracts and lifts longer hairs to the surface while pushing flyaways neatly out of sight.
Take it to the bedroom
Take this as your sign to invest in a silk pillowcase. Unlike rougher cotton options, these luxurious products are gentler on the hair cuticle, reducing friction when you move during the night. “Silk pillowcases also help preserve your hair’s moisture while you sleep,” notes Mahony, highlighting that silk is far less absorbent than cotton or synthetic fibers. His top pick? The decadent designs from The Beauty Sleeper.
Smart supplementing
When it comes to hair aesthetics, what’s happening internally is just as important as external care. “Hair health starts from within, and in winter, it’s crucial to supplement your diet with oils rich in fatty acids,” says Mahony. “I personally take liquid omega-3 and add a splash of avocado oil to my morning smoothie.” Supporting this, a study found that women taking a fish oil supplement experienced significantly increased hair growth and reduced hair loss.
How else can I beat frizz this winter?
Another essential step to keeping frizz at bay this winter is making sure you’re layering your hair care products correctly. If you’re unsure how to do this, take a look at our ultimate guide to maximise the effectiveness of your routine.