7 Common Winter Hair Problems and how to Fix Them

Winter brings with it cosy fireplaces, warm layers, hot chocolates and...dry hair. That’s right, along with the many upsides of winter, the cold season can wreak havoc on your strands. With less moisture in the air and the heating switched on, your hair and scalp will begin to dry out, which can cause issues like static frizz, split ends and dull-looking locks. Well, put aside your winter hair woes; it’s time for some hair rehab! Stick with us, and we’ll show you how to combat those pesky winter problems with a few clever hair hacks that will stop damage in its tracks.

Dry, itchy scalp

The problem: It’s super important to look after your scalp at this time of year. Between cold air and dry heat coming from radiators, there’s a serious lack of moisture in the air. This is not a good combo and can lead to your scalp feeling like a desert landscape. As your scalp dries out, it’s common to feel it tightening, and it might even become itchy which, if you’re prone to dandruff, is not good news.

The fix: Just like you moisturise your skin, you need to moisturise your scalp. After all, it’s the starting point of your hair, so you need to take good care of it! You can put moisture back in by choosing the right shampoo and conditioner. Avoid shampoos with sulphates as they can strip the hair of its natural oils. Instead, look for products that target dry scalps and use them regularly. You can also apply an oil or serum to help replenish moisture directly to the scalp. If your scalp feels itchy, choose a product with anti-inflammatory properties such as tea tree or lavender. To apply, use your fingers or a cotton tip, then massage through the scalp. This is best done at night as the serum will have plenty of time to set in while you sleep.

Static frizz

The problem: When temperatures drop, the dry, chilly air can make your air susceptible to an electric charge, causing it to stand up and starting looking a little crazy! This can be made worse if you’re wearing any sort of wool or cashmere sweater.

The fix: Just like before, the answer is moisture. You need to keep as much moisture in your hair as possible, so it’s less affected by the dry air. Try switching your regular shampoo to a more hydrating version and treat your hair to a leave-in conditioner a couple of times a week. You should also lay off styling tools and fashion a few heatless styles instead. Try a low braid finished with a gorgeous Scunci Top Knot Headband for a cute ‘90s look, or have some fun with a bobble braid using our colourful No Damage Elastics. To prevent static in the first place, you can try sleeping on a silk pillowcase or using a flyaway serum to smooth your strands. 

Hat hair

The problem: As the weather cools, we can hardly wait to put our cute beanies on, but the aftermath of hat hair is less fun. While they keep you warm and save time on styling in the morning, hats encourage limp, shapeless hair and can even cause breakage.The fix: You don’t need to stop wearing hats to combat flat hair. When you take your hat off, try flipping your hair upside down and giving it a bit of a ruffle to revive it. When you get home, use a leave-in conditioner to hydrate the hair and lock in moisture. If you’re blow-drying your hair before leaving the house, wait until it’s completely cool before putting your hat on to avoid it falling flat. If you’re short on time, try braiding your hair instead and tie it off with a cute elastic. 

Dry strands

The problem: By now, you’re probably noticing a trend; cold temperatures take a toll on your hair! Just like with the scalp, a drop in temperature and moisture levels can cause your hair to become dry, brittle and start to feel a bit like straw. 

The fix: The first thing to do is slow down on your hot styling tool usage. Using heat will only add to the problem, so give your hair a break and start practising a few new heatless looks. If you have to use heat, make sure to spray your hair with a quality protectant first.

The next thing you can do is restore some of the moisture with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner, followed by a deeply hydrating hair mask once or twice per week. Look for clean, sulphate and paraben-free formulas with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and aloe vera. Tight hairstyles like ponytails and buns can cause your hair to break while it’s so dry, so try wearing your hair down or in a loose braid instead. You can keep the hair off your face with a stylish headband. 

Styling woes

The problem: While you back away from the heat tools and battle with hat hair, you may find yourself in somewhat of a styling rut. But, winter is, in fact, the best time of year to get creative with your locks. There’s no summer humidity, no sweaty strands, and if you don’t love your ‘do, you can just cover it with a beanie! 

The fix: You’re suffering from a classic case of boredom. It’s time to stop scraping your hair back and have a little more fun. One of our favourite winter looks is an effortless messy topknot. Not only is it a chance to wear your favourite scrunchie, but it’s super easy to create. Simply pull your hair into a high half-pony, leaving the rest of your hair down, and tie off. 

Space buns are back, and they’re totally in! The ultimate ‘90s hairstyle meets fun festival vibe is popping up all over the place, and it’s the perfect ‘do to spice up your winter. To create, split your hair into two equal sections and tie them into identical ponytails at the top of your head. Then, one at a time, wrap the length of hair around the base of your ponytail and secure it with bobby pins. Spritz with a little hairspray, and you’re done!  

Split ends

The problem: Blowdryer-induced split ends and flyaways are a direct result of dehydration and damage. Though this can happen at any time of year, the lack of humidity in winter means your hair is more likely to dry out and become brittle.

The fix: It’s no surprise that the first thing you’ll need to do is reduce how often you use heat styling tools to try and prevent further damage from occurring. You should also invest in some quality hair elastics to combat breakage when tying your hair up. If it’s already too late and you have split ends, then you’ll need your hairstylist to give them a snip.  

Tangles

The problem: Scarves, thick jumpers and collared jackets feel great, but they aren’t so good for your hair. The hair gets caught and knotted up in all the layers, while the extra static means you’re dealing with a tangled, matted mess by the end of the day. 

The fix: The simplest fix is either wearing your hair in a high ponytail or styling it into a side braid to keep it out of harm’s way. You can also apply a pump of leave-in conditioner to help keep your hair smooth and glossy for longer. To work through the knots, apply conditioner while in the shower, leave for a couple of minutes, then comb it through using a wide-tooth shower comb. 

For more inspiration on the latest in hairstyles, tips and how-tos, check out our latest blogs and video tutorials. Become your very best hairstylist at home with Scunci hair tools and accessories.

U got this

Love Scunci xx

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At Scunci, we understand better than anyone that uncovering fun, new ways to style your hair can be hard. Instead of throwing your hair back with a hair elastic in your same old plain Jane bun, why not shop our range of Scunci scrunchies, hair brushes, and other hair accessories in Australia for something new? 

Not all hair styling tools and accessories are created equal. That’s why at Scunci, we’re committed to providing you with an array of options for your unique hair needs and goals. Plus, using proper styling tools like hair brushes or hair combs can help you achieve the style you want while keeping your hair healthy and vibrant.

Find your nearest store to buy Scunci hair combs, scrunchies, elastic hair ties, girls’ headbands and accessories in Australia and contact our team if you have any questions.

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