Sis, winter is coming for our crowns, and we’re talking unwanted frizz, dryness, and dreaded breakage. But fear not, curl queen! We’ve got your back (and your gorgeous coils) with 10 fire tips to keep your melanin mane thriving even when the temperature’s on the low-low.
[SEE ALSO: A Day In The Life of Ona Diaz-Santin]
Deep Condition Like Your Life Depends On It
Ditch the “wash and go” routine for now. Winter air sucks the moisture out of everything, including your curls. Treat your hair to a weekly deep conditioning sesh with a product rich in emollients like shea butter or coconut oil. Bonus points for using a hooded dryer or wrapping your head in a plastic bag for maximum steam action. Think of it as a spa day for your scalp!
Seal the Deal with Oils
Don’t let moisture escape! After deep conditioning, lock it in with a lightweight oil like argan or jojoba. Apply a pea-sized amount to damp hair, focusing on the ends, which tend to be drier. Pro tip: mix a few drops of oil with your leave-in conditioner for extra TLC for extra protection.️
Satin is Your New BFF
Swap cotton pillowcases for satin or silk ones, which reduce friction and help your curls retain their definition. It’s like giving your hair a luxurious slumber party every night.
Embrace the Power of Pre-Poo
Before shampooing, apply a pre-poo treatment with your favorite oil, serum, or hair mask. This creates a barrier, protecting your hair from the harsh chemicals in shampoos. In the same way you prep your skin for makeup, you also gotta prime those curls!
Ditch the Heat (or Be Gentle)
We know you love your heat styling tools, but winter is a great time to give your flat iron a break. Let your curls air-dry whenever possible, and if you must use heat, apply a heat protectant spray and lower the temperature setting.
Accessorize with Intention
Beanies and scarves are cute, but they can be rough on your curls. Opt for satin-lined options, or tie your hair loosely in a pineapple at the top of your head to minimize friction. You can still slay winter fashion without sacrificing your curl health.
Silk Scarf Sleep Hacks
Speaking of scarves, don’t forget to tie a silk scarf around your hair at bedtime. This helps prevent tangles and keeps your curls defined, even after tossing and turning. This silk cocoon for your hair will have you waking up looking like a queen!
Embrace Protective Styles
Winter is the perfect time to experiment with braids, twists, bantu knots, or even wigs! These styles protect your curls from the elements and give you a chance to switch up your look. It’s a fun and functional way to keep your hair safe and slayin’! ✨
Don’t Forget the Scalp
A healthy scalp means healthy hair. And a lot of the same skincare tips you’d use on your face apply. One is exfoliation. Use a gentle scalp scrub once a week to remove build-up and promote healthy hair growth.
Drink Up
Hydration is key for healthy hair, inside and out. For an internal and external glow-up, increase your water intake and consider adding a hydrating hair mask to your routine.
Remember, curls are a gift, and winter doesn’t have to be their downfall. By following these tips and listening to your hair’s needs, you can rock healthy, defined, and gorgeous curls all season long.
Bonus Tip: Remember, every curl journey is unique, so experiment and find what works best for your hair. Share your winter haircare faves in the comments below! Let’s build a community of curl queens supporting each other through the coldest months!
