Do These Things to Protect Your Natural Hair During Winter Months

Winter and Natural Hair

Natural hair care during winter looks a lot different than that of the spring and summer months. However, many naturalistas underestimate everyday life's impact on their natural hair's health during this time of year. First, we are dealing with environmental changes that rob our natural kinks and coils of much-needed moisture. Indoor heating, windy days, and frosty temperatures can be very drying to our hair. Next, we change our wardrobe during these months, opting for sweaters, fleece pullovers, and wool coats. Our wardrobe choice can sometimes pose a danger for natural hair because our tresses can become easily entangled and snap. How can you take better care of your natural hair during winter months?  Do these four things for healthy natural hair growth.

Start with Your Scalp

It's so easy to only focus your efforts on the quality and health of your natural curls, but healthy natural hair begins with your scalp. Indoor and outdoor temperature swings can rob your hair of its moisture and wreak havoc on your scalp. There are a few actions you can take to protect your scalp while also optimizing your natural hair growth.

Essential Oils for Scalp Care during Winter Months

Don't skimp on your water intake during the winter months. Hydrate well so that your body can easily transport those vital nutrients to your scalp to promote healthy hair growth and sustain moisture. Choose moisture-rich natural hair care products and take advantage of essential oils that not only moisturize the scalp but soothe it and protect it from inflammation and irritation. Almond, Ylang-ylang, and rosemary oil are three excellent essential oils that can relieve dry scalp.

Step Up Your Deep Conditioner Game

A deep conditioner regimen is a must-have ingredient for healthy natural hair throughout the year. However, during winter months, the consistent use of a deep conditioner becomes a vital asset for protecting your hair against the season's damaging effects. At a minimum, you should aim to deep condition your hair every other week, if not every week, depending on your hair's porosity and curl pattern.

Conditioning Essential Oils 

Step up your deep conditioner game by adding conditioning essential oils to your regimen. Avocado oil is a naturally moisturizing agent that can infuse moisture and has the right blend of good fats to repair damaged hair during winter months. You can add it to your conditioner or make your own avocado hair mask treatment.

Castor oil is a fan-favorite for multiple reasons in the natural hair community. This thick essential oil acts as a potent moisture sealant, which can be extremely useful during cold winter months. It helps protect your hair's overall structure and significantly reduces the risk for those pesky split ends or breakage.

Steam Your Natural Hair

Many natural hair mavens recommend steaming your hair during winter months. Steam treatments are an excellent way to infuse moisture into your hair and help to soften hair that can feel rough and brittle during this time of year. Want to boost the results of steaming? Use essential oils.

Essential Oils for Steaming Natural Hair

It helps to strengthen hair, improving hair elasticity, and minimizing the risk for breakage. Extra virgin olive oil can help to repair any breakage issues you might be struggling to manage. Argan oil is another fantastic essential oil for breakage but also helps to seal in moisture. Eucalyptus and peppermint oils are fabulous for hair growth and can boost the health of your scalp.  

Satin Bonnets, Silk Beanies, and Scarves

Finally, do not skip out on protecting your hair overnight. Satin bonnets, silk beanies, and scarves will keep your hair from snapping and unwanted frizz, while also helping to prevent moisture loss. Cotton fabrics such as your standard pillowcase or sheet can cause tangling, hair thinning, and trigger breakage.

Let us know how these tips have helped you take better care of your hair this winter!

As always,

#KeepWinning

-Team Body Cake