The change in the weather rings in the festive season along with its many parties and events.  Unfortunately it is also the most damaging season for your hair.  Although it is easy to blame the damp, blustery weather for our hair problems it’s not just being outside that can harm your locks. The combination of central heating and the cold weather robs your hair of it’s moisture making it more prone to split ends and frizzing static.  But do you have to wait until your hair suffers before you do something about it?

The best course of action is to take preventative measures before the damage sets in.  It’s time to visit your hairdresser and get a good cut and colour. 

Moisturise
Apply a daily conditioner to the middle and ends of your hair. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to buy Gliss or Vidal Sassoon, there are some good conditioners available including the Mercadona own brand products.  If you don’t want to have to wash your hair every day look for conditioners or masks that you can leave in – look for “Sin Aclarado” (without rinsing).  There is no need to apply a conditioner direct to the hair roots as the scalp’s oil glands will take care of them.

Once a week use a more intensive treatment like a hot oil or apply your normal conditioner and wrap your hair in a towel or plastic bag for 10 minutes before rinsing out.

Don’t Heat it Up
Try to limit your use of the hair dryer and heated rollers.  The extreme heat will dry out your hair even more making it more prone to be flyaway.  To help fight the frizz use a couple of drops of a silicone-based serum while styling.

Cover It Up?
You may be tempted to cover your hair up when it is suffering from exposure and of course wearing a hat when it is cold will help to keep you warm however it will result in greasy, limp hair.  If you must wear a hat make sure it is not too tight and wash it (or get it dry cleaned) regularly.

Check your diet
Don't give in to excessive sweet and stodgy comfort foods, which increase the production of grease in your skin and hair, instead increase your intake of dairy, oily fish, chicken, cereals, fresh fruit, green vegetables, wholewheat pasta, brown rice and pulses.

Drink more
To keep your hair looking healthy you need to drink eight glasses of water every day.  Although it is easy to remember to do this in the summer we know that you are more inclined to want a nice warm cup of coffee in the winter. However if you bear in mind that coffee, tea and alcohol all have a dehydrating effect you might want to consider a caffeine/alcohol free alternative such as herbal or fruit tea.

If you follow these simple tips you can turn your hair dull, lifeless, unmanageable tresses into your crowning glory this winter.