How the change of season affects your hair

Cooler weather is what we’ve been waiting for after these hot summer months! And although the cool Autumn breezes and less fiery sun may be more enjoyable, what does it mean for our hair? The change of season, specifically to Autumn, often means drier, colder air, which can definitely have its effects on our skin and, of course, hair.

But not to worry, we’ve got you and your hair covered! Read on to find out the effects the change of season can have on your hair and how to combat them.

What does the change of season do?

Breakage caused by cold, dry air

Certain elements, like the cold winds and drier air that come with the change of season from Autumn to Winter, can often damage your hair strands. The cortex, or centre of your hair, is protected by a layer of cells called the cuticle. When your cuticle is exposed to an excessive amount of heat (from heat styling) or cold (from winds or crisp dry air) it can start to break, which in turn leaves your cortex (and entire hair strand) vulnerable to breakage and split ends.

Lack of moisture & growth

During the change of season (leading into the chillier months), the colder temperatures can also cause your hair’s cuticles to tighten up and as mentioned previous cause some breakage… Sadly, this means makes it trickier for your strands to retain and get the moisture they need — which results in your hair feeling slightly dryer, having dandruff and not growing (majorly meh).

How to help your hair?

1. Keep hair hydrated

The best advice we have to tackle the change of season head-on is to hydrate your hair as much as possible. Just like your body, your hair needs water too – so drink plenty of it! Another must-try is moisturising haircare products. Wash your hair with nourishing products and make sure to throw in a moisturising hair treatment at least once a week.

To give your hair some added nourishment during the change of season, we’d recommend the Dove Advanced Hair Series Oxygen Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner.

And for that extra moisture boost, the Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Treatment Mask is packed with natural ingredients to deep condition your hair.

2. Brush & massage your scalp

Another top tip to help your hair through the change of season is regularly brushing and massaging your scalp. Take a couple of minutes each day to gently brush or massage your scalp. Although it may sound simple, doing this daily will help increase the blood flow and relieve tension on your scalp. And a happier, healthier scalp means hair growth!

3. Smooth your cuticles

Cuticle care is a must! To smooth and protect your hair’s cuticles, we recommend also adding some protective products to your change of season haircare regime.

Gently comb through some leave-in conditioner when you’re on the go to protect your strands from any colder, harsh breezes. We suggest the TONI&GUY Leave-In Conditioner.

If it’s starting to get a bit colder out and you want to dry your hair before leaving the house, always remember to use a heat protectant. The TRESemmé Heat Defence Spray is a must-have protectant to use before heat styling or using a blow dryer.

4. Get enough vitamin D

The change of season to Autumn means fewer bright, sunny days — which often means our bodies are receiving less vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for healthy skin and hair. It nourishes your body and is specifically known to help with hair growth. We’d suggest getting your hands on a good supplement or eating lots of vitamin D enriched food like fish, eggs and certain cereals.