By Dr.Shruti Kakar -Aesthetic Dermatologist & Dermatosurgeon, Expert Consultant, Vatika,
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
As we all get back to work and settle into the routine of the new year, one thing is for sure: your hair needs to look its best to match the season. The colder weather, combined with the dry indoor air from heating, can lead to dry, frizzy, and lackluster hair. The good news? You don’t need to battle the winter elements—just a little extra care can keep your hair looking lush all season long.
1. Oil Your Way to Winter-Ready Hair
Time to give your hair the ultimate hydration sesh! Remember when your mom swore by oiling your hair? Turns out, she was onto something genius. Enter Hair Slugging—TikTok’s trending haircare hack. The idea? Drench your strands in natural oils before bedtime, let the magic happen overnight, and wake up to nourished, silky tresses.
The secret is finding the perfect oil blend for your hair type and massaging it into your scalp to boost circulation while locking in moisture. Bonus points if you use warm oil—it absorbs better and feels like a spa treatment at home.
Expert Tip: Wrap your oiled-up hair in a soft cloth or scarf before you hit the pillow. This not only enhances absorption but keeps your sheets safe from oil drama. Winter hair, sorted! There are plenty of new oil variants designed for specific needs. For instance, rich in oleic acid, Vatika’s new Avocado Hair Oil deeply moisturizes your hair from root to tip, giving it the nourishment it craves during colder months.
2. Choose the Right Oil Cocktail
Finding the perfect hair oil is like finding the perfect coffee shop—it’s all about the right blend! Your hair type plays a big role in how effective an oil will be, so it’s worth getting it right. Different oils contain nutrients that target specific hair concerns, so picking the right mix makes all the difference. For instance, lightweight oils like argan or jojoba can be better for fine hair, while thicker, curly manes thrive with richer oils.
Expert Recommendation: Embrace a custom blend. Vatika’s enriched hair oil comes with the power natural ingredients which Provide Nourishment, Moisturization And Protection For Healthy Hair. For dull and dry locks that need a little taming, try Vatika Almond hair oil which is a mix of almond oil with sesame and coconut oil, which deeply moisturizes, adds shine, and keeps frizz under control. If your hair is finer and you want some lift, a blend with oils like coconut and castor can help create volume and bounce. You’ll be amazed at how much healthier your hair feels when it’s getting exactly what it needs!
3. Consistency is Key to Gorgeous Locks
Beautiful hair isn’t an overnight thing; it’s all about finding a routine and sticking to it. A simple yet consistent routine of weekly oiling, washing, and conditioning can keep your hair looking its best. Adding a hair mask every couple of weeks gives an extra boost of nutrients that your hair will love. Keep it simple and steady, and you’ll see the payoff.
Expert Recommendation: Create a weekly “spa night” ritual for your hair. This can include a relaxing oil massage, a good hair wash, and conditioning. Then, once every two weeks, treat yourself to a rich hair mask to add even more moisture. Your hair will reward you with that silky, healthy look.
4. Hold Back on Overwashing
Washing your hair daily during summer is one thing, but in winter, it’s better to dial it back. Overwashing strips the scalp of its natural oils, which are essential in winter when the air is naturally drier. Plus, winter humidity is lower, so your hair retains less moisture, making it more prone to damage if washed too often.
Expert Recommendation: Wash your hair only when necessary! Instead of setting a rigid schedule, check your scalp and hair. If it still feels fresh and not too oily, skip the wash. Your hair’s natural oils will help keep it softer and shinier, which is exactly what you need during winter’s drying months.
5. Temperature Check
Nothing says ‘winter cozy’ like a hot shower, very hot water can be harsh on your hair. Hot water strips moisture from hair, leaving it dry and brittle.
Expert Recommendation: Rinse your hair with lukewarm water and finish with a cool rinse to seal in moisture and shine. Your hair will thank you, even if it’s a little chillier than usual!
6. Sleep Over Your Hair (Literally!)
Leaving the house with wet hair in winter? Absolutely not. Walking outside with wet hair can cause it to freeze, making it brittle and susceptible to breakage. Wet hair is far more vulnerable to breakage in the cold air. Instead, set yourself up for success with a smart pre-bedtime routine. Wash your hair earlier in the day, let it air dry, and then go to sleep with dry hair.
Expert Recommendation: Set up a cozy pre-bedtime routine. Apply your preferred oil, wash it out, let it air dry, and then sleep with dry hair. Overnight, your scalp’s natural oils work magic, adding softness and reducing frizz. You’ll wake up with softer, shinier locks.
Armed with these tips, you’re ready to face the winter with confidence—and with hair that’s just as ready for the new season. Say goodbye to dull, dry strands and hello to winter-proof, gorgeous hair!