Discover the Ultimate Hair Transformation
5 November 2024
Five Ways to Take Care of Your Hair This Winter
Why do we get dry hair in winter?
Winter can be harsh on your hair. The cold outdoor air combined with indoor heating strips away moisture, leading to issues like dryness, dullness, and even breakage.
For South African beauty enthusiasts, the mid-year winter months can mean low humidity and static-prone air, which spell trouble for hair health. The result? Frizzy, brittle strands and a scalp that might feel dry or itchy. To keep your locks luscious through the chilly season, it’s crucial to adapt your haircare routine. This means pampering your tresses with extra hydration, protection, and nourishment. High-quality products like Joico – known for delivering the “joi of healthy hair” – can make all the difference in maintaining hydrated, resilient hair even when temperatures drop.
In fact, at Hair Couture Salon, Tiffany Sansom believes that healthy hair’s vitality and brilliance can transform your look, which is why she has chosen Joico as her trusted house brand (JOICO - Hair Couture Salon). Let’s dive into five effective ways to take care of your hair this winter, using tips and product recommendations that will keep your mane glowing all season long.
1. Hydration is Key
Lock in Moisture:
Winter’s dry air literally sucks the moisture out of your hair, leaving it parched. Cold winds outside and heaters inside create a desert-like environment for your tresses – it’s not just your skin that turns dry in winter; your hair follicles can end up feeling parched too. This lack of humidity makes hair dry, brittle, and prone to static. You might notice more flyaways when wearing your favourite beanie or scarf because when there’s no moisture in the hair, friction from winter clothing creates static electricity (Brrr! 5 Ways to Winterise Your Hair – Joico). The first step to combat these issues is boosting hydration at every step of your routine.
Use Rich, Hydrating Products:
Swap in a super-moisturising shampoo and conditioner to replenish lost hydration. Joico’s Moisture Recovery line is tailor-made for this. The Moisture Recovery Shampoo is formulated for dry to extremely dry hair, delivering intense hydration that transforms “parched, unruly locks into soft, manageable strands. Follow up with Moisture Recovery Conditioner to seal in that moisture. For an extra dose of hydration, treat your hair to Joico’s Moisture Recovery Treatment Balm once or twice a week. This 5-minute treatment is an “ultimate hydration boost” for coarse, dry hair –formulated with murumuru, olive, and shea butters to deeply nourish and even reduce breakage by up to 80%. According to Joico’s own winter haircare experts, a rich hydrating treatment is key for taming winter frizz and static: “Moisture Recovery Treatment Balm provides deep hydration to thirsty hair, while maximising strength and shine” (Brrr! 5 Ways to Winterize Your Hair – Joico).
If your hair is fine and gets weighed down easily, you can opt for a lighter hydrator like Joico’s HydraSplash range, which delivers 24-hour moisture without heaviness (Brrr! 5 Ways to Winterize Your Hair – Joico). The bottom line is to drench those dry strands with moisture at every opportunity. Well-hydrated hair is softer, shinier, and far less likely to break – exactly what you need during winter.
2. Protect Your Hair from Heat Styling
Beware of Winter Heat Damage: When it’s chilly, you probably rely more on blow-dryers and hot tools – after all, no one likes stepping out with a wet head on a cold Johannesburg morning. But excessive heat styling in winter can wreak havoc on your hair’s moisture levels. In fact, if you’re “relying on your blow-dryer because you can’t bear cold air on a wet head,” it could be contributing to parched hair that’s prone to split ends and breakage (Brrr! 5 Ways to Winterize Your Hair – Joico). Heated indoor air plus hot styling tools = double trouble for your strands. To prevent dryness and damage, it’s important to shield your hair from the heat.
Use a Thermal Protectant:
Before you pick up that hairdryer or flat iron, arm your hair with a heat protectant spray. A hero product for this is Joico’s Heat Hero Glossing Thermal Protector. As soon as you spritz this “brilliant hair guardian” on your hair, it forms an invisible shield against the “thermal assault of blow-dryers, flat irons, and other damaging heat-styling tools” (Heat Hero – Joico). Heat Hero is clinically proven to protect hair from temperatures up to 232°C (450°F) and even helps reduce the appearance of split ends (Heat Hero – Joico). It’s a lightweight, non-sticky spray that not only defends your hair but also adds a glossy shine as a bonus. By using a product like this, you’re essentially putting a winter coat on your hair strands – a protective layer that keeps the heat from sapping away all the moisture and protein. Joico’s Heat Hero was even recognised as a 2022 award-winner for “Best Heat Protectant,” so you know it’s a must-have in your arsenal. Spray it on each section of dry hair before using hot tools, and you can style with much less guilt (and damage).
Joico Heat Hero Thermal Protector shields your hair from hot tools while adding shine – a winter must for heat styling protection.
Heat Styling Alternatives:
Even with a great heat protectant, it’s wise to give your hair some breaks from high heat. Whenever possible, let your hair air-dry partially before finishing with a dryer, or try heatless styling techniques overnight (like braids for waves, or rollers for curls). Embrace styles that don’t require daily heat – for example, a sleek ponytail, bun, or heat-free curls. On days you do heat-style, use the lowest effective temperature setting. And remember, tools like ionic hairdryers can dry your hair faster, reducing the heat exposure time. Small changes like these can significantly lower the cumulative heat stress on your hair during winter. By combining limited heat use with a product like Heat Hero, you’ll keep your mane much healthier and happier despite the cold weather.
3. Deep Conditioning is a Must
Replenish and Repair Weekly:
Cold weather doesn’t just dry out hair; it can also make existing damage worse. Hair that’s already color-treated, chemically processed, or a bit brittle will suffer more in winter, leading to frizz and breakage. That’s why deep conditioning is non-negotiable in the colder months. A rich hair mask or reconstructor used once a week can inject much-needed moisture and repair into your strands, preventing winter from turning minor dryness into major damage. Think of deep conditioning as giving your hair a nourishing “meal” to strengthen it from the inside out. minor dryness into major damage. Think of deep conditioning as giving your hair a nourishing “meal” to strengthen it from the inside out.
Bring in the Big Guns – Joico K-PAK Reconstructor:
One of Joico’s most famous treatments is the K-PAK Deep-Penetrating Reconstructor, and it’s a winter haircare saviour. This protein-packed mask is a “powerful solution for repairing damaged hair” – it uses Joico’s exclusive Keratin Protein technology to rebuild and fortify weak, brittle strands (K-PAK Reconstructor 150ml - Hair Couture Salon). In just 5 minutes, it helps restore your hair’s natural strength and shine. If your hair is feeling straw-like or looks dull and frazzled after weeks of dry weather, slather on the K-PAK Reconstructor to visibly revitalize it. It’s especially beneficial for dry, damaged, or chemically treated hair that needs some love. Follow the instructions (apply to damp hair after shampooing, leave for 5 minutes, then rinse) and enjoy softer, stronger hair that can better withstand winter stresses. Joico also offers other great masks – for instance, the Defy Damage Protective Masque is a quick 5-minute treatment that infuses hair with bond-strengthening ingredients to fight dehydration and breakage. Whichever you choose, make it a weekly ritual. As Joico’s team puts it, after a deep treatment, hair becomes “visibly healthy, shiny, soft, and supple” – even after the very first use
Salon Treatments for Extra Care:
For an even deeper boost, consider visiting a professional for in-salon conditioning treatments. A stylist has access to intensive treatments (and the know-how to apply them) that can dramatically improve your hair’s condition. At Hair Couture Salon, for example, they offer specialized Joico treatments like the Defy Damage Hair Treatment and multi-phase repair treatments (Home - Hair Couture Salon). The Four Phase Hair Treatment – a popular Joico K-PAK in-salon service – can rebuild broken hair bonds and hydrate at levels that at-home products alone might not achieve. Treating yourself to a salon hair therapy session once or twice in winter (in addition to your at-home deep conditioning) can keep your hair ultra-strong and moisturised. Plus, a professional stylist can analyse what your particular hair needs – whether it’s more protein, more moisture, or a balance of both – and use the appropriate Joico products accordingly. Don’t let winter win: a combination of at-home masks and occasional salon treatments will ensure your hair stays in peak condition all season.
4. Scalp Care Matters
Healthy Scalp, Healthy Hair:
It’s easy to focus on the hair strands and forget the scalp – but the truth is, great hair begins at the roots. Think of your scalp like the soil in a garden: “Poor soil will directly affect the well-being of the plants,” as one dermatologist explained (Healthy Scalp: Definition, Benefits of Healthy Scalp, How to Treat It). If your scalp is dry, flaky, or clogged with product buildup, your hair can’t grow its best. Winter can be tough on scalps too – the dry air and hot showers might leave your scalp feeling tight or itchy, and wearing hats frequently can lead to oil buildup or sweat on the scalp. So giving your scalp some TLC in winter is just as important as conditioning your lengths.
Exfoliate and Detox:
One way to care for your scalp is by gently exfoliating and clarifying to remove any buildup (from dry skin or heavy products). Joico has introduced a Defy Damage Detox Shampoo that’s perfect for this purpose. This clarifying shampoo “dives deep to leave hair and scalp feeling clean while being gentle on color” (Defy Damage Detox Shampoo - Paramount Beauty). Using a detox shampoo once a week can whisk away impurities like hard water minerals, excess oil, and styling residue that regular shampoos might miss. The result is a fresh, balanced scalp that can breathe – and hair that isn’t weighed down at the roots. For an even more targeted approach, you might try Joico’s Scalp Detox treatments if available, or a scalp scrub from a trusted brand. Massage it in to boost circulation (which brings more nutrients to your hair follicles) and rinse away to reveal a healthier scalp.
Keep the Scalp Hydrated and Nourished:
Don’t confuse clarifying with stripping – you still want to maintain moisture in your scalp. If you’re dealing with itchiness or flakiness, look for a soothing scalp serum or oil. Joico’s Defy Damage line includes products that help protect the scalp and hair from environmental stressors, keeping the foundation of your hair healthy. Also, avoid washing your hair with very hot water, as this can dry out your scalp. Use lukewarm water and finish with a cool rinse to seal the hair cuticles and invigorate your scalp. Remember, “a healthy scalp leads to healthy hair” (Healthy Scalp: Definition, Benefits of Healthy Scalp, How to Treat It), so by taking care of it, you’re ensuring better growth, strength, and shine in the long run. (For more expert tips on scalp and hair care, you can check out Joico’s Pro Blog, where professional stylists share their secrets to keeping hair in top shape.)
5. Trim and Maintain Your Hair
Regular Trims to Prevent Winter Woes:
It might seem counterintuitive to cut your hair when you’re trying to grow it out or keep it long for warmth, but regular trims are actually your hair’s best friend. Trimming off the split ends and frayed bits ensures that damage doesn’t travel up the hair shaft. If split ends are left unattended, they can continue splitting higher, causing breakage and an overall frizzy, unhealthy look. By getting a small trim (even just 1cm) every 6-8 weeks, you nip that damage in the bud. Regular trims help remove the damaged ends, preventing further breakage and ensuring your hair remains strong and healthy (Why Regular Trims Are Key for Healthy Hair - Bishops Cuts/Color). This is especially important in winter, when hair is more brittle – think of it as pruning a plant so it can grow better.
Professional Maintenance:
While DIY trims or asking a friend to cut your hair might be tempting, it’s best to entrust your winter trims to a professional hair stylist. A skilled stylist will know exactly how much to trim to eliminate damage while preserving length, and can also assess your hair’s overall condition. (It’s also a great opportunity to ask for personalised winter care advice!). It’s as simple as searching for a qualified “hair stylist near me” to find a pro who can give you a fresh cut. If you’re in the Gauteng area, you might consider Hair Couture Salon – their expert stylists (led by Tiffany) are adept at crafting healthy hairstyles and can recommend Joico treatments during your visit. At Hair Couture, you’re not just getting a trim; you’re getting a boutique salon experience with a focus on hair health. Regular appointments with a trusted stylist will keep your ends in check and your style looking sharp. Plus, during a winter salon visit, you can treat yourself to those nourishing Joico masks or even a Defy Damage in-salon treatment we mentioned, doubling up on the care for your hair.
Don’t Skip Maintenance:
Aside from trims, maintain your hair by continuing to brush gently (to distribute natural oils), not skipping conditioner (even if you’re in a hurry), and avoiding super tight hairstyles that might cause tension breakage on fragile winter hair. Little maintenance habits go a long way. For instance, using a silk or satin pillowcase can reduce friction while you sleep, minimising morning tangles and frizz. Also, if you’re wearing woolen hats, consider lining them with silk/satin to prevent snagging your hair. All these small steps, combined with your regular trims, ensure that your hair doesn’t just survive winter – it thrives.
Winter doesn’t have to be the season of bad hair days
Winter doesn’t have to be the season of bad hair days. By following these five winter hair care strategies, you can keep your mane looking and feeling fabulous even when the weather isn’t. To recap: hydrate your hair religiously to combat dryness, protect it from heat styling, indulge in deep conditioning treatments weekly, give your scalp the attention it deserves, and trim regularly to stop damage in its tracks. Each step plays a role in preserving your hair’s moisture, strength, and shine. And throughout all these steps, the common thread is quality – using high-quality, proven products like Joico ensures you’re truly nourishing your hair with every wash, mask, or spray. Investing in your haircare routine with salon-grade products pays off in the form of softer, stronger, more beautiful hair.
This winter, treat your hair with the same love you’d give your skin in the dry season. Joico’s range, from the Moisture Recovery hydrators to the K-PAK reconstructor to the Defy Damage line, is formulated to tackle exactly these cold-weather concerns. They’ve got the science of healthy hair down to an art, so you can trust your precious locks with them. South African beauty enthusiasts, you have the advantage of accessing these products easily – and even getting professional guidance – through Hair Couture Salon. The team at Hair Couture is passionate about healthy hair and can help you pick the perfect Joico regimen for your needs. Ready to transform your winter hair care? Give your hair the gift of nourishment and protection. Shop Joico’s products at Hair Couture Salon’s online store to equip yourself with the best-in-class hair care for winter: Joico Products at Hair Couture Salon. Here’s to healthy, hydrated hair all winter long – because no matter the season, you deserve hair that makes you feel confident and gorgeous!
