Exploring the enchanting winter landscape can easily make you overlook the toll it takes on your hair. But don’t worry—natural hair care solutions are here! Follow these winter hair care tips to maintain your stylish look throughout the season.
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Winter Challenges
During colder months, the combination of wind, chilly air, and UV rays bouncing off snow outdoors, along with indoor heating and static electricity, can lead to dry, brittle, and damaged hair. Thankfully, natural hair care is here to rescue your hair during these frosty adventures.
Step 1: Shampooing
For Her
Opt for a gentle shampoo that cleanses without stripping essential oils, especially if you have dry hair. Look for products enriched with proteins and vitamins for healthier hair.
For Him
Men typically have oilier scalps, often resulting in greasy hair, so it’s wise to select a shampoo designed for oily hair types, incorporating powerful natural ingredients like tea tree and mint.
Step 2: Conditioning
For Her
Always use conditioner through winter! Revitalize your hair’s moisture and shine with conditioners enriched with nourishing oils from nuts and fruits.
For Him
Men should also incorporate conditioner into their routine. Choose a lightweight formula to avoid weighing your hair down. Those with longer hair should condition after each shampooing; those with shorter styles might condition less frequently.
Step 3: Styling
For Her
Many women subject their hair to heat styling—from blow-drying to using curling or straightening irons. Always apply a heat-protectant before using these tools. Reducing heat exposure is key: consider using hairdryers over irons, and let your hair air dry whenever possible. Consult with your stylist for a haircut that complements your natural texture, allowing for effortless air drying.
For Him
Styling is essential for completing an entire look and defining identity. Here are some suggestions:
Rethink your hair part. A middle part can round the face, while a side part can highlight your jawline and cheekbones.
Use hair products. Hair products aren’t just for women! Plenty of natural formulations exist to enhance texture and shine while keeping men’s hairstyles intact.
Be adventurous. Embrace longer styles like ponytails, man buns, or braids—growing your hair out can be rewarding!
Select Natural Products
Conventional hair care products can contain numerous harmful ingredients. Here are some to avoid:
- Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) are unnecessary foaming agents that may also be toxic to marine life.
- Diethanolamine (DEA) can cause irritation and may react to form cancer-causing compounds.
- “Fragrance” is a vague term for a mixture that could include harmful ingredients.
- Parabens serve as preservatives but can interfere with hormone function.
- Silicones can offer shine and softness but may be toxic and accumulate in the body.
Seek healthier alternatives at natural health retailers.
Perfecting Your Movember ’Stache
Grooming your Movember moustache and beard is a meticulous process. Here are some helpful tips:
- Be patient; it may take weeks for your hair to grow long enough for trimming.
- Shampoo and condition your facial hair just as you would for the hair on your head.
- When trimming your moustache, ensure excellent lighting and use proper barber scissors. Consider investing in a beard trimmer with adjustable length settings. Wet your hair and comb through it before trimming.
- Avoid the “neckbeard” look; grow your beard until it’s two finger widths above your Adam’s apple, angling it in a smooth “U” shape toward each ear.
- Look for natural moustache wax at well-stocked health retailers to keep longer styles in place.
And remember, supporting the cause is vital—don’t forget to donate! ca.movember.com/donate
Simple DIY Beard Oil
Keep your beard soft and touchable with this natural DIY beard oil recipe from Erin Jornitz of East Avery Handmades.
- Select a carrier oil. Numerous carrier oils can moisturize hair and skin. Consider options like avocado, sweet almond, coconut, argan, and grapeseed oil. Each oil has unique properties; for instance, argan oil is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, ideal for sensitive skin. Choose oils based on your specific needs.
- Pick your essential oil. The choice of essential oil is a matter of personal preference. Popular combinations include tea tree and cedarwood, or lemon and eucalyptus.
- Choose a storage bottle. Use a dark glass bottle to protect the oil from sunlight, preventing oxidation. A 1 oz (30 mL) bottle with a dropper is ideal.
- Mix your ingredients. Fill the bottle mostly with carrier oil, then add around 10 drops of essential oil.
If DIY isn’t your style, you can also find ready-made natural beard oils for purchase.