Hair + Beauty

Tips for Redheads Fighting Cold Weather Hair Concerns 

Don't Let the Cold Get Your Red Hair Down!

Transitioning from one season to the next often means change is in the air. We swap our wardrobes and home decor and change things in our routines. Skincare is a big focus when fall and winter roll around because our skin needs more moisture and nourishment to stay bright and glowing in the cold. Did you know you should also adjust your hair care when the seasons change? Here’s everything you need to know: 

During the colder months, a few standard concerns you might not know are being caused, or made worse, by the weather. Frizz, dandruff, breakage, and overall shine can all be impacted by a drop in temperature. Here is what you can do about them:

1. Frizz

During the summer months, frizz is super common in redheads. This is because most redheads have some wave or curl to their hair and overall coarser hair. Summer frizz is often caused by heat and humidity, but it can be just as much of a problem in the fall and winter. Cold weather frizz is usually a result of dryness in the hair. 

Tips:

  • Redheads can combat frizz in colder months by using moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, followed by a leave-in conditioner for added hydration.
  • Applying a lightweight anti-frizz serum or hair oil to damp hair can help smooth the strands.
  • Minimize heat styling, use a heat protectant when necessary, and dry your hair with a microfiber towel to reduce friction.
  • Finish with a cold water rinse to seal the cuticle and enhance shine.
  • Regular trims can prevent split ends, and sleeping on silk or satin pillowcases reduces friction.
  • Consider protective hairstyles like braids on windy days to keep your red locks frizz-free all winter!

2. Dandruff

Seasonal scalp dryness is common, even in those who don’t suffer from dandruff or scalp dryness year-round. Seasonal dryness can occur all over the head or in patches. Try a dandruff shampoo or other anti-dandruff products, or use a spot treatment. Redheads on our team have had great luck with products containing apple cider vinegar!

Tips:

  • Use a moisturizing shampoo with soothing ingredients like tea tree oil or aloe vera.
  • Incorporating scalp treatments with salicylic acid or coal tar can help, along with washing hair regularly—about 2-3 times a week—to maintain cleanliness without stripping natural oils.
  • A nourishing conditioner should be applied mainly to the ends, and gentle scalp exfoliation can remove dead skin cells.
  • A humidifier can combat dry indoor air, while a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and staying hydrated supports scalp health.
  • Additionally, it’s important to avoid irritants like alcohol-based products, and if dandruff persists, consulting a dermatologist for tailored solutions is advisable.

3. Breakage

The cold, dry air can make split ends and breakage worse. While you can’t heal the damage, you can use hydrating products to help reduce the appearance of it. The best thing to do? Get a trim! Cutting off the split ends will prevent the breakage from spreading and make your hair healthier. 

Tips:

  • For added moisture, use hydrating shampoos and conditioners with ingredients like keratin and argan oil, along with deep conditioning treatments once a week.
  • Gently patting hair dry with a microfiber towel instead of rubbing it and minimizing heat styling while using heat protectants when necessary can also help.
  • Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on hair and schedule regular trims to eliminate split ends.
  • Opt for silk or satin pillowcases and hair ties to reduce friction.
  • Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping hair strong and healthy during winter.

4. Adding Shine

After a summer in the sun, you might notice your hair feeling dull. This may be because of UV damage but also due to dryness. You can apply a gloss to keep your red hair vibrant and gorgeous. If you don’t want to alter the color in any way, opt for a shine shampoo or a clear gloss.

Tips:

  • Use color-safe shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair.
  • Washing hair with lukewarm or cool water helps prevent moisture and color loss.
  • Limiting heat styling and always using a heat protectant when necessary can prevent further dullness.
  • Glossing treatments, whether professional or at home, can enhance shine,
  • A balanced diet rich in vitamins like vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids and plenty of water supports healthy hair.
  • Regular trims to remove split ends and avoid harsh sulfate-based products also help keep red hair vibrant throughout winter.

Rock it like a Redhead!

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