How to Take Care of Textured Hair During Winter?

1) Importance of Hydration and Nutrition in Winter

Winter puts significant stress on the hydration of curly, coily, and wavy hair due to cold temperatures, dry wind, and indoor heating.

To combat this, it’s crucial to increase the use of moisturizing treatments.

Regular application of a moisturizing cream can significantly improve hair hydration throughout the week.

Additionally, adopting the LCO method (Liquid/Cream/Oil) on a weekly basis is particularly effective, especially for high-porosity hair.

This technique helps lock in moisture and strengthens the hair fiber, preventing dehydration.

2) Choosing the Right Products

Selecting the right hair care products plays a key role in maintaining hydration and the overall health of textured hair during winter.

Opt for hydrating and nourishing products such as Haitian black castor oil, argan oil, or jojoba oil, along with shampoos, conditioners, and moisturizing hair creams that contain emollient and humectant ingredients like mango butter, honey, soybean oil, and bamboo sap extract.

These ingredients strengthen the hair fiber and help retain moisture for a longer period.

Incorporating a deep conditioning mask under a heated cap along with a moisturizing cream in your hair care routine provides deep hydration and protects against external damage.

Taking care of your scalp is just as important—healthy hair starts with a well-nourished scalp.

Consider scalp massages with nourishing oils like Haitian black castor oil or jojoba oil to stimulate blood circulation and combat dryness.

Additionally, you can create a hydrating spray to relieve itchiness and dandruff caused by dry air.

3) The Benefits of Protective Hairstyles

Protective hairstyles are essential for safeguarding curly, coily, and wavy hair during winter.

They offer several benefits:

• They help retain moisture by shielding the hair from cold and dry wind, reducing the risk of dehydration and breakage.
• They minimize daily manipulation, preventing knots and reducing hair damage.
• They give the hair a break, allowing it to regenerate while maintaining its health.
• They simplify hair care, requiring fewer styling products and heat tools, which is beneficial for hair weakened by winter conditions.

4) Examples of Winter-Appropriate Protective Hairstyles

Several protective hairstyles are particularly suited for winter:

• Braids, such as Box Braids or Twists, are popular choices.

  • Box Braids protect natural hair by wrapping it in braids, with or without extensions, creating a barrier against external elements.
  • Twists (or vanilles), available in different styles from simple to intricate, help maintain hydration and reduce hair manipulation.

• Buns (high or low) are simple yet elegant protective hairstyles that suit various styles and preferences. They shield the ends, preserve moisture, and provide a polished look.

• Double cornrows and faux locs are both stylish and practical. These hairstyles offer long-term protection, reduce tangling and breakage, and can be customized to suit your preferences.

5) Practical Tips to Minimize Hair Damage in Winter

Cover Your Hair Outdoors

To protect your curly, coily, and wavy hair from harsh winter conditions, it’s essential to cover it when going outside.

A satin or silk-lined bonnet or scarf is ideal for this purpose. These soft, smooth fabrics prevent static electricity caused by friction and weather conditions, helping to maintain the health and shine of your textured hair.

If you prefer wearing hats, choose one with a satin lining for added protection against friction and cold.

If needed, you can wear a satin bonnet underneath your winter hat to further protect your hair from rough fabric contact.

Avoid Damaging Hair Practices

Some habits can harm your hair during winter.

• Never go outside with wet hair – moisture can freeze in the hair strands, making them more fragile and prone to breakage.
• Ensure your hair is completely dry before stepping out, or wash it in the evening so it has enough time to air-dry.
• Limit the use of heat-styling tools such as blow dryers, flat irons, and curling wands, as they can be particularly damaging during this season.

Instead, opt for gentle drying methods like using a microfiber towel or a cotton t-shirt, or finishing with a diffuser when your hair is almost dry.

• Avoid tight or overly complicated hairstyles and excessive hair manipulation, as these can lead to breakage and weaken the hair fiber.
• Space out wash days and use gentle shampoos to help maintain your hair’s natural hydration.

The ends of textured hair are the most fragile and prone to breakage in winter. Trim split ends regularly to prevent further damage along the length of your hair.

Additionally, seal moisture into your ends with a nourishing oil like Haitian black castor oil after applying a moisturizing cream.

Maintain Hydration from the Inside Out

Healthy hair also comes from within. Your diet has a direct impact on the health of curly, coily, and wavy hair.

Consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals such as nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish to support hair health.

Drink plenty of water (1.5L to 2L per day) to maintain internal hydration, which reflects in your hair.

If necessary, consider taking dietary supplements to compensate for any nutritional deficiencies.

Conclusion

Protecting curly, coily, and wavy hair from the cold and dryness of winter requires a specific hair care routine.

Hydration is key—regularly using deeply moisturizing products and incorporating protective hairstyles will help maintain the health, beauty, and moisture of your textured hair throughout the winter season.