Winter in New Orleans is no joke—damp, cold air outside and drying indoor heat can leave your hair and scalp feeling parched. But with a few intentional changes to your routine, you can keep your hair healthy, hydrated, and thriving all season. Here are our top winter hair care tips, plus some expert-approved product recommendations and a little insider wisdom from our salon team.
1. Drink More Water (and Try Sticky Water!)
Hair health starts from within, and staying hydrated is key. But let’s be real—drinking plain water in the winter can feel like a chore. That’s where Anna’s trick comes in: she swears by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a pinch of pink Himalayan salt to her water. It’s a quick way to boost electrolytes, improve hydration, and add a little flavor to keep things interesting. She calls it “sticky water,” and it’s a game-changer.
Pro Tip: Start your day with a glass of sticky water and notice the difference it makes for your scalp and skin over time.
2. Wash Your Hair a Little More Frequently
In winter, your scalp tends to produce less oil, which means buildup can sit longer on your skin and clog hair follicles. Washing slightly more often than usual (not daily!) helps keep your scalp balanced and sets the stage for better hydration.
Pro Tip: Use lukewarm water and follow with Aloetherapy Moisture Mist to lock in hydration after you step out of the shower.
3. Dry Your Hair Completely Before Going Outside
Heading out with damp hair in winter? Not a good idea. Wet hair is more vulnerable to environmental damage and can freeze in particularly cold weather, leading to breakage. Blow-drying your hair fully is your best bet to prevent this.
Pro Tip: Use a heat protectant, like a few drops of Beautifying Serum, before blow-drying. It shields your hair from heat damage and leaves it with a luminous shine.
4. Exfoliate Your Scalp Weekly
Dry scalp and flakes can be especially pesky during the winter. Incorporating a gentle exfoliation into your routine removes buildup and improves scalp circulation.
Pro Tip: Apply the Exfoliating Treatment to wet hair before shampooing. Massage it into your scalp for a refreshing detox that leaves your scalp cool and your hair feeling clean.
5. Deep Condition Every Fifth Wash
Moisture is everything during winter. A deep conditioning treatment can help replenish lost hydration, strengthen your hair, and soothe your scalp.
Pro Tip: After shampooing, use the Urgent Repair Revitalizing Treatment. Leave it on for at least 5 minutes—or longer for an at-home spa vibe!
6. Tame Frizz and Static
With winter’s dry air and wardrobe staples like scarves and hats, static and frizz can become daily struggles. The solution? Smoothing products that lock in moisture and protect against friction.
Pro Tip: Apply Pure Polish to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair to create a smoothing barrier that also prevents breakage.
7. Spritz for Midday Hydration
Even if your hair feels dry in between washes, resist the urge to overload it with heavy oils or butters. Instead, reach for a lightweight hydrating mist to refresh your locks and scalp.
Pro Tip: Keep Aloetherapy Moisture Mist in your bag and spritz as needed throughout the day. Bonus: it smells amazing!
8. Protect Your Hair from the Elements
Between unpredictable New Orleans rain and breezy winter evenings, it’s a good idea to shield your hair from the elements.
Pro Tip: Invest in a Satin Lined Beanie to keep your style intact during Mardi Gras parades or any unexpected drizzle.
9. Schedule a Salon Scalp Treatment
Sometimes, at-home care isn’t enough, and that’s where our in-salon treatments shine. Our Peppermint Oil Dry Scalp Treatment is specially designed to tackle winter dryness, soothe irritation, and leave your scalp feeling refreshed.
Pro Tip: Book a scalp treatment as part of your next appointment to give your hair and scalp the extra care they deserve.
10. Stay Consistent and Show Yourself Some Love
Winter can feel like a season of constant adjustment, but your hair care doesn’t have to be complicated. Build a routine that works for you, stay hydrated (hello, sticky water!), and don’t forget to celebrate small wins—like a good hair day in January.
Let’s keep your hair and scalp healthy all winter long! Ready to book an appointment or stock up on your favorite products? We’re here to help. wickedhues.com
