4 Tips for Healthy Winter Hair

When I received my assignment for this month’s Life Well Lived post, I had a mini-panic attack. I’m a black girl with locs (dreadlocks are what they are most commonly known as), which is an entirely different hair style than many of the people who might read this site. I had to draw tips from many different people, my friends, acquaintances, and a few beauty experts. Here are four tips that will work on all hair types.

1. No More Wet Hair
In winter, dry your hair before you leave the house! It really pays to get up half an hour earlier to blow dry your hair, or a couple hours to let your hair air dry. Of course, the time will depend on the length and thickness of your hair. And it’ll definitely be worth it to avoid the sneeze and snot fits you’ll have for days after. (I realize that the whole world isn’t an icebox during winter. If you can take a dip in the pool at this very moment, you can safely disregard this information.)

2. Protective Styles
Try wearing styles that don’t need much maintenance. You might be tempted to run your fingers through your hair and comb your hair throughout the day. Leave your hair alone! The extra manipulation can cause an increase in shedding as well as those annoying split ends. Styles like the top knot and fishtail braid will keep you from being tempted to finger-comb.

3. Hot Oil Treatments
Grab a single-use bottle at the beauty supply store, or grab some Extra Virgin Olive Oil from the cupboard. It will help heal your hair from daily wear and tear. Apply directly to damp hair, and put on a plastic cap and/or a hot towel. Hello, hair repair!

4. Deep Condition
Add some oils to your favorite conditioner, or purchase a dedicated hair treatment. Restore your hair of the nutrients that it loses in brisk temperatures. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and let your hair be pampered.

Please share your best winter hair care tips. I would love to hear your ideas, in the event that a friend wants some advice, or if I’m on assignment again!

Erin Bailey is Founder & Editor-In-Chief of Scandalous Beauty: "The Urban Beauty Blog"

Be sure to enter the Life Well Lived Moments Sweepstakes for a chance to win $250!