Confessions of a Master Hairstylist: How to Prep Your Hair for Winter Without Losing Your Shine (or Your Mind)

❄️ Baby, It’s Cold Outside... and So Is Your Hair!

How to Prep Your Hair for Winter Without Losing Your Shine (or Your Mind)

Winter’s on the way — which means cozy sweaters, peppermint mochas, and… dry, frizzy hair that feels like it’s been through a snowstorm. The truth is, cold air outside and dry heat indoors create the perfect storm for thirsty strands and a cranky scalp.

But don’t worry — we’ve got you. Whether you’re rocking your natural curls, a protective style, or a custom unit, here’s how to keep your hair healthy, hydrated, and happy all winter long.

💧 1. Hydrate Like Your Hair Depends On It (Because It Does)

Winter air loves moisture — especially yours. So it’s time to upgrade your routine with rich, hydrating formulas. Look for products infused with plant-based oils like The Remedy, argan oil, or jojoba.

Deep conditioning weekly helps lock in hydration and adds softness back to brittle strands. For an at-home boost, try the “steam cap trick”: apply conditioner, pop on a plastic cap, and let the steam from your shower work its magic. Spa vibes + soft hair? Yes, please.

🧠 2. Show Your Scalp Some Love

Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp — and winter can make it dry, tight, and flaky. Gently massage your scalp with a nourishing oil every few days to boost circulation and hydration.

If you wear protective styles or wigs, don’t forget to cleanse your scalp with a sulfate-free shampoo every two weeks. A clean, balanced scalp = stronger, healthier hair.

🎩 3. Protect Your Crown From Fabric Friction

Wool coats, scarves, and hats are cute — until they start breaking off your ends. Wool and rough fabrics can cause friction and damage, especially around your nape and edges.

Before putting on a hat, wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf, or opt for satin-lined headwear to prevent breakage and frizz.
And when it’s bedtime, trade that cotton pillowcase for a satin or silk pillowcase. I swear by sleeping on a silk pillowcase — it’s one of those small luxuries that saves your hair and your sanity. 

🔥 4. Ease Up on the Heat

We get it — winter is blowout season. But overusing hot tools when your hair is already stressed? Recipe for breakage.
Keep your tools at moderate temps and always use a heat protectant. Bonus points for taking a break between heat styles — your strands deserve a cool-down period, too.

🌿 5. Maintain and Moisturize Under Protective Styles

Protective doesn’t mean neglecting your hair. If you’re wearing braids, wigs, or weaves, your natural hair still needs moisture and care.

Apply a lightweight oil or leave-in conditioner underneath your style to prevent dryness and breakage. If you’re rocking a custom unit, cleanse and condition it regularly — and don’t forget to let your natural hair breathe between installs.

For wig lovers, keep your unit clean, detangled, and stored properly when not in use. You can even send your unit in for professional care or a “crown revival” when it needs extra love — because healthy hair doesn’t stop at your roots.

✨ The Final Word

Your hair deserves the same cozy treatment you give yourself during the colder months. Drink your water, cover your hair with satin, and treat your scalp like the foundation it is.

Remember: Winter hair care isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what matters consistently. Hydrate, protect, and love on your crown.

Because the season might be frosty, but your hair? She’s staying moisturized, vibrant, and very much unbothered.

🛍️ Shop the Essentials

💞 Want everything mentioned in this post in one place?
I created a curated Amazon list with all my winter must-haves — from satin pillowcases to scalp-care tools.👉🏾 Shop My Winter Hair Care Essentials List Here →

(This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting good hair and good energy! 💕)