Cold Weather Is Coming: Switch Up Your Hair's Moisture Routine
The mornings are getting cooler, and soon the heat will be running inside. A lot of us notice our hair feels drier this time of year, even when we have not changed a thing. Cold, dry air outside and heated air inside both pull at moisture. The fix is not a whole new shelf. It is a small switch in how you layer what you already use.
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Start with water
Moisture starts with water. On damp hair, or after a light mist of water, smooth in a water-based leave-in like Camille Rose Herbal Tea Seal and Soften Leave-In. Work in sections so every part of your hair gets some, especially the ends.
Add a little oil
Next, a small amount of oil on the length and ends. Black Castor Miracle Sealing Oil is made for this step. A few drops go a long way. You want soft, not greasy.
Seal with a butter
This is the switch. In warmer months a light cream may be enough. When it gets colder, many people like a richer butter on top, such as Camille Rose Curlaide Moisture Butter. Start with a small amount and add only if your hair still feels dry. This liquid, oil, cream order is often called the LOC method. Some people prefer liquid, cream, then oil. Try both and see what your hair likes.
Give wash day a richer conditioner
On wash day, swap your usual conditioner for something more hydrating for a few weeks, like SheaMoisture Manuka Honey and Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration. Follow the label for how long to leave it on. Rinse, then go right into your leave-in while your hair is still damp.
Tuck your ends
Your ends are the oldest part of your hair and the first to dry out and snag on coats and scarves. Low-manipulation styles like twists, buns, or braids that keep the ends tucked away help a lot this time of year. Keep them loose at the edges.
Watch your hats and scarves
Wool and rough knits can rub and snag. Look for a hat with a soft lining, or wear a satin scarf or bonnet underneath when you can.
Bonnet up at night
Cotton pillowcases can pull moisture from your hair while you sleep. Cover up with a satin bonnet like the Magic Ribbon Bonnet every night.
Go easy on heat
Hair that is already dry from the weather does not need extra heat on top. If you do use a blow dryer or flat iron, use a heat protectant and the lowest setting that works. Some people also run a humidifier in the bedroom during the coldest months.
Find more moisture and wash-day products in Hair Care.
Cold weather hair checklist
- Water-based leave-in on damp hair
- A few drops of oil on the length and ends
- A richer butter to seal
- A more hydrating conditioner on wash day
- Ends tucked in a low-manipulation style
- Soft-lined hat or satin under your knit
- Bonnet every night
- Less heat, and protectant when you use it
FAQ
Does cold weather really dry out natural hair?
A lot of people notice their hair feels drier in fall and winter. Cold air outside and heat running inside can both pull moisture from your hair. Pay attention to how your own hair feels and adjust.
What is the LOC method?
It stands for liquid, oil, cream. You start with water or a water-based leave-in, add a little oil, then finish with a cream or butter to help hold the moisture in. Some people switch the order to liquid, cream, oil. Try both and see what your hair likes.
Should I use heavier products in winter?
Many people do switch to a thicker cream or butter in colder months. Use a small amount and build up. Too much product can weigh hair down or cause buildup.
Can wool hats and scarves damage my hair?
Rough fabrics can rub and snag your ends. Keep your ends tucked into a protective style, and look for a hat with a soft lining or wear a satin bonnet or scarf underneath.
Questions? Email info@leadblacks.com or call or text (470) 646-9473.
