Cold weather like the -10 we get in Minnesota can wreak havoc on your hair and skin. Here are some quick tips to keep you from getting dry and scaly.
Let's shower:
I know it feels good to take a hot shower when it's so cold, but it dehydrates your skin and hair. Try to keep the shower at a medium temperature. Use a moisturizing body wash. No drying soaps!
Use hydrating or moisturizing shampoos and conditioners and try not to shampoo everyday. Using just conditioner is completely acceptable! The Surface hair line by Wayne Grund and Moroccan Oil are my product recommendations for keeping beautifully hydrated hair and skin during winter.
The Bassu Hydrating line by Surface is perfect for anyone needing extra moisture. If you find you are getting an itchy scalp due to the cold temps, use the Surface Awaken Therapeutic line. It's not only for fine/thinning hair, it helps with an array of scalp conditions including dandruff and psoriasis! Wash your whole body with the Awaken Therapeutic shampoo if your skin is dry and itchy also. If you already are dealing with damage and need some rescue, the Trinity Strengthening line is what you seek.
After the shower:
I recommend Moroccan Oil on your hair after a shower to help protect it from styling damage and freezing temps. Don't just stop there, I have found that using Moroccan Oil on your skin is moisture magic! Slather it all over your body right after you get out of the shower! Follow up with your favorite facial moisturizer, thus giving extra protection to your face, as it's hard to keep Jack Frost from nipping at your nose. I use the Repechage hydrating moisturizer. It's for sensitive skin which is an extra bonus. Don't forget to use moisturizer on your lips, followed by a lip balm. Your esthetician is your most valuable resource to recommend the perfect skin care products for your skin type. I recommend Frankie McDaniel of Frankie's Skin Care, operating at Petite Spa, if you live in or around the St. Cloud, MN area.
Using a leave-in conditioner on your hair before you blow dry will help protect your hair not only from the blow dryer but from the elements as well. Surface's Trinity Protein Repair Tonic is my recommendation, and it smells fantastic!
Make sure you dry your hair completely before stepping out into frigid temps. Your hair can freeze, which can cause damage. Wear a scarf and hat to protect it even when it's completely dry. Seeing your salon professional for deep conditioning/restorative treatments is a great way to get your hair back to healthy and to keep it that way throughout the year.
