As the weather begins to change, it’s important to transition your hair care routine with the seasons. In the winter, our hair can become dry and brittle because of the cold weather. But, when the temperature warms up, your hair begins to transform, entering the telogen or “shedding” stage. During this time, many people notice slight hair loss — but don’t fret! This is a totally natural, normal process, and your hair has already begun growing new hair inside the follicle.
To properly prepare your hair for the seasonal change while keeping it healthy and beautiful, follow these essential tips and integrate the use of professional hair care products to help hydrate strands and manage frizz.
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1. Get a Springtime Trim
Cold weather can often contribute to dry, split ends, so when the weather begins to warm, it’s the perfect time to rid your hair of those damaged ends with a springtime trim. If you’re looking for a fresh new look, spring is a great season to debut a new hairstyle. However, if you’re looking to keep your length, you should still consider a trim this time of year. Just let your stylist know that you only want to get rid of the damaged ends. Trimming dead ends help encourage growth, so it is particularly important in the spring.
2. Take Cooler Showers
Though it’s difficult to cool the temperature of your shower in those chilly winter months, during the spring and summer, a slightly cooler shower often feels refreshing. Hot water may feel great on our bodies, but it’s tough on our hair. Hot water can dry out hair follicles and make your strands more susceptible to breakage and other damage. During this time when your hair is slightly more fragile as it sheds its winter “coat,” you do not want to add any additional factors that could further damage your new incoming strands. You don’t need to take a cold shower — just keep the water temperature closer to lukewarm when rinsing out your hair. This will help it maintain moisture and add shine.
3. Eat a Balanced Diet
If you’re aware that your hair often begins to shed as spring approaches, it’s good to be prepared for the change and implement some habits that can encourage new growth. Eating a well-balanced diet is one of the best ways to do this. Seek out healthy foods that are nutrient-rich and high in vitamins and minerals to help strengthen your hair. Vitamin Bs assist with regrowth, while vitamins A and C can keep your scalp hydrated.
Eggs are a great food to incorporate into your diet regularly as they are high in biotin, which encourages the growth of hair and nails. Eggs, along with other dairy products and fish, are also high in vitamin A. Leafy greens are also great foods to work into your healthy diet.
4. Focus on Hydrating Your Hair
Winter can be very difficult on our hair, and while it’s essential to practice habits that hydrate us in the winter, it’s also important to continue this routine into the spring. Leave-in conditioner can help restore your hair to its healthy, springtime look. Adding a weekly or biweekly hair mask into your routine is another great way to reintroduce moisture to your strands.
5. Use Professional Hair Products to Tame Frizziness
As the cool, dry air leaves and the warmer humidity begins to return in spring, frizziness is often a pesky side effect. The best way to combat frustrating frizz is by using professional hair care products. Avoid heavy oils that can weigh down your hair and cause buildup. Look for lighter products that tame flyaways and baby hairs.
6. Avoid Too Much Heat
This is a year-round hair tip that everyone should implement. However, as the temperature rises, it becomes a little bit easy to avoid your blow dryer and hair straightener. Allowing your hair to air dry is a great way to embrace your natural look and prevent your hair from heat damage. With warmer air temps, it’s easier (and less damaging) to let your hair air dry. Look for products that can cut frizz, add volume and give structure to curly or wavy hair for a gorgeous natural look.
7. Use Shampoo More Often
If you have naturally dry hair and use a co-washing method in the winter, you may want to reintroduce shampoo into your routine. Co-washing is the practice of only washing hair with conditioner. This can be beneficial for certain hair types, but a good cleansing during the spring can work for everyone. Look for professional shampoo and avoid washing too often as it can strip the natural oils from your hair, causing breakage and dryness.
8. Explore Other Casual Hairstyles
Spring is the perfect time to test out different, more natural hairstyles. Loose ponytails, braids and updos are a great way to stay cool in the sun and embrace your natural hairstyle. Avoid ponytails that are too tight, as this can put extra stress on your hair and cause breakage.
And there you have it! Welcome the warmer seasons with a new and improved hair care routine. Your strands will thank you!