When it comes to post-winter care, our locks are one of the first that need some TLC. From split ends to dryness and lack of shine and colour luminosity, our strands are all longing for a spring revival.
But why does our hair cop such a beating in winter? You may associate hair damage coming out the warmer months, but Kao Australia channel strategy and education associate director, Rita Marcon told us winter can take just the same damaging toll on our locks.
"Though we typically associate summer with hair damage thanks to sun, sea and chlorine in abundance, winter can present equally challenging circumstances for our hair health," Marcon said.
"Temperature fluctuations, humidity and exposure to UV affects our hair health all year round. Protection and hydration should be our mantra in summer, while in winter we should be focused on maintaining moisture and repairing damage and dryness."
Willomina Woollahra co-owner and director, Christopher Hunter, also shared with BD that, "When we go from summer to winter we generally spend more time in climate controlled areas. This can dry both your hair and skin out and without proper care can cause damage. Alternately spring and summer see us spending more time in the great outdoors."
So, what's the best way to restore hair this spring? Well, make masks your friend!
"To restore winter weary hair, apply a little extra TLC by switching out your regular conditioner for a nourishing hair mask instead," said Marcon.
"You can also boost hair hydration with leave in formulas designed to nourish and repair, without weighing hair down. After winter is also the perfect time to check in on your hair health, addressing damage, weakness and split ends with high tech bond boosting formulas."
Now it's important to remember that some hair types are more prone to breakage which the cooler weather can wreak havoc on, so if this is you, your hair may need some extra lovin'.
"Fine hair is more delicate and therefore naturally more prone to breakage. However, mechanical stress such as the regular use of hot tools, and chemical stress such as lightening and colouring, can also render any hair type more fragile, said Marcon.
"The quality of your home haircare range plays a vital role in maintaining strong and healthy hair too."
Hunter agreed, adding "Artificially lightened Hair is most prone to breakage. Poor at-home care can be a major factor in this," he said.
Because at-home haircare is such an important element in keeping your hair in tip-top shape, we have rounded up the below essentials to add to your routine. Keep these handy this season, and your hair will thank you for it.
Goldwell DUALSENSES Bond Pro range
"The Goldwell Dualsenses Bond Pro range strengthens weak or fragile hair, whether its caused by everyday wear and tear or from mechanical and chemical stresses," said Marcon.
"Peptides and amino acids penetrate into the hair cortex, targeting the damaged areas. Compounds of red and brown algae extracts form ionic and hydrogen bonds, embedding these peptides in the inner cortex and making the hair fiber stronger and more resilient."
"Put simply, the Inter-Amino-Bond-Builder fortifies the hair from the inside out by forming new ionic and hydrogen bonds, delivering instant strength and resilience. Best of all, it’s suitable for all hair types - including fine hair," she shared.
Schwarzkopf got2b Guardian Angel Heat Protection Spray
This blow dry spray protects hair against styling heat up to 220 degrees celsius. Spray generously through towel-dried hair. Blow-dry hair as usual and if desired, use straighteners or curling tongs to achieve the ultimate, hot style.
GROW Longer Stronger Anti-Breakage Hair Mask
This intensive treatment is formulated with amino acids and key actives to help strengthen hair deep from within. It also protects the hair surface, preventing damage and breakage caused by environmental stress, chemical treatments or over styling. Enriched with aloe vera, jojoba, and avocado oil for to nourish and hydrate leaving beautifully shiny hair.
Formulated with shea butter, this shampoo is boosted with the super-quenching power of betaine which improves the condition of hair by up to 43% after 1 treatment. FK Restore™ Functional Keratin® penetrates to deeply hydrate, protecting scalp and hair to reduce breakage and frizziness. Enriched with vitamin E, argan and jojoba oil to strengthen, smooth and shine hair.
muk Spa Argan Oil Repair Treatment
This light, absorbent oil is ideal for thicker hair. Formulated to protect the hair from blow-drying, hair irons, chlorine, saltwater and sun exposure. To apply, use prior to styling, after shampooing and conditioning hair; towel dry and apply a few drops to the hands, and spread evenly through the hair.
ghd’s first hot brush tames and smoothes dry hair quickly and effortlessly, making it perfect for second day styling. The ceramic technology with ioniser heats the brush uniformly to the optimum 185 degrees celsius styling temperature for healthier looking hair. The ioniser restores balance back in the hair to eliminate frizz so that hair is perfectly smooth and glossy. The combination of high density shorter bristles and longer bristles allow large sections to be styled with salon smooth natural movement.
Schwarzkopf Taft Mega Styling Gel, Maximum Hold
The combination of ultra-strong fixing agents and pro-vitamin B5 provide long-lasting hold, leaving hair soft and shiny, while the UV filter helps protect hair. The gel contains no alcohol and will not dry hair out. The non-sticky formula is easy to brush out and leaves no residue. Work a small amount between fingertips or palms, apply to wet or dry hair and style as desired.
John Frieda Hydrate & Recharge Deep Soak Masque
Quench thirsty, lifeless hair with an intensive surge of moisture. Infused with nutrient rich drops containing monoi oil and keratin, this hair mask for dry hair deeply nourishes dry, brittle strands for touchably soft, silky hair that moves with you.
Provoke Touch of Silver Toning Treatment Mask
Brightens colour while moisturising hair at the same time with this toning treatment mask. It contains salon-strength violet pigment to actively neutralise brassy tones and hydrating Aquaplex™ system to nourish for visibly brighter hair in just one wash. This luxurious mask instantly tones for radiant colour, whilst transforming tresses that are damaged and over-processed to leave hair feeling soft, healthy and hydrated.
Sisley Paris HAIR Rituel by Sisley - Soothing Rebalancing Cure
Imbalance of the scalp can irritate it and leave it uncomfortable. The soothing rebalancing ritual contains alpha-bisabolol of natural origin, which helps soothe the scalp and stop feelings of discomfort. From the first application, the scalp feels fresher and soothed. After a few weeks, the scalp is increasingly rebalanced. Continued results and benefits may be seen for up to 3 months after completing the program.
Schwarzkopf Extra Care Keratin Strength Hairspray
Not your regular hairspray, this offering provides 24-hour hold while caring for the hair. Featuring a unique hair care formula that includes keratin hair filler to thicken and strengthen hair. Also contains an UV filter, offering protection from the sun, wind and humidity. Offers visibly fuller hair. Non-sticky. Can be brushed out of the hair with ease.
