Last week, I was walking around in a t-shirt and having lunch al fresco. This week, I’m sporting Canada Goose and ordering Seamless. Winter has definitely made an appearance and you know what that means — hair problems!
As a stylist, I see my clients’ hair through every season. And I can tell you for certain that if your hair takes a turn for the worse come November, you are not alone. Thanks to the cold, dry air, to say nothing of the breakage-causing hats, hair-tangling scarves and static-inducing polyester puffers and parkas, winter is by far the most difficult time for the hair and scalp.
Here is a round-up of the five winter hair problems I see most frequently and how to solve them:
#1 DRY HAIR AND SCALP
The lack of humidity in the air can be seen on your hair just as much as on your complexion, making dry, breakage-prone hair one of the biggest problems this time of year.
This is actually a big reason why I formulated my line with Norwegian cloudberry extract, a powerful antioxidant with the miraculous ability to thrive in Norway’s harsh climate. Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, the extract works wonders on dull, dry strands crying out for added moisture.
If dry hair and scalp are a problem, I recommend mild, gentle and moisturizing products, such as the René Fris Cleanser and Conditioner and the René Fris Styling Cream. This type of combination will ensure that you do not strip your hair and scalp of moisture so that your style looks healthy and glossy.
#2 MATTED HAIR AND TANGLES
If you’re like most people, you’ve probably already begun to notice some tangling and matted hair. The knots are usually due to wool scarves and winter coats that are rough on your cuticle.
To combat the tangles, brush them out with a 100 percent boar bristle brush. And be gentle. Hold your hair just above the tangle and go easy on those knots so as not to sustain unnecessary hair loss and breakage.
Dry indoor air can also contribute to tangles, so consider investing in a humidifier for your bedroom. And definitely get a silk or satin pillow case to reduce the friction that regular pillow cases create while you sleep.
#3 FLAT, LIMP HAIR
You don’t have to be part of the “big hair, don’t care” crowd to wish for added volume in winter. Straight and sleek styles are one thing; flat and limp, quite another. The look can drag the face down and make us appear older than our years. No thanks!
My solve is the René Fris Thickening Cleanser and Conditioner. I cannot emphasize enough how much volume the formula adds. It will literally double the size of the hair shaft, giving a flattering lift at the root and all-over fullness and body, no matter the season.
#4 STATIC FLYWAYS
Nobody wants their hair to look like they just stuck their finger in a light socket. And yet, it can take static hours to subside after a brush with one of those polyester puffers.
My solution is twofold. First, avoid letting your hair rub against the inside of these jackets by pulling it into a pony tail or a bun. Second, if possible, bring a tube of my Styling Cream along and apply it to your hair when you arrive at your destination. Just a small amount will go a long way towards taming static and replenishing your hair’s moisture balance for a glossy, polished and naturally beautiful finish.
#5 BREAKAGE
While summertime is a perfect opportunity to let your hair dry naturally in the great outdoors, the same cannot be said for winter. In fact, leaving your house with damp hair is one of the primary causes of breakage.
To put a stop to breakage all together, make sure to make an appointment with your stylist for a pre-season trim. Then keep your hair away from the elements by pulling it into a bun or an updo.
My favorite technique for sidestepping breakage is also one I recommend for tangled and matted hair — a silk or satin pillow case. It’s an absolute hair saver!
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