It’s winter! You know what that means, cold hands, ears, and toes. But what about your natural hair? Unfortunately, winter isn’t exactly kind to our coils. The cold weather can be harsh on type 4 hair, so it’s time to switch up your routine to protect your strands during these colder months.
How Does Winter Affect Natural Hair?
Whether you love or hate the winter season, the cold weather can impact your natural hair significantly. Just as we keep chapstick on hand to fight dry lips, we also need to think about how the winter climate affects our hair.
Type 4 hair is naturally drier and more fragile than other hair types, and the cold, dry air only makes things worse. Harsh winds and low humidity can strip moisture from your hair, leaving it brittle, tangled, and prone to breakage. If you live in an area with cold winters, you’ll need to take extra care of your hair to protect it from the elements.
5 Winter Hair Care Tips for Type 4 Natural Hair
Here are five essential tips to help you protect your natural hair during the winter months and keep it healthy, moisturized, and strong.
1. Shampoo Less Often
While it’s important to keep your scalp clean, over-washing your hair in the winter can strip it of its natural oils. Shampoo, especially if it contains sulfates, removes not only dirt and buildup but also much-needed moisture. Instead, try spacing out your wash days and using a moisturizing shampoo with a conditioner to keep your hair hydrated. Remember, balance is key. Cleanse your scalp without drying out your strands.
2. Deep Condition Regularly
In the winter, deep conditioning becomes even more important. The cold weather dries out hair, and deep conditioners help replenish moisture, strengthen the strands, and improve elasticity. Incorporate a rich, hydrating deep conditioner into your routine at least once a week to give your curls the nourishment they need. Look for products that contain natural oils, butters, and proteins to protect your hair from breakage.
3. Be Mindful of Drying Fabrics (Scarves, Hats)
Layering up in winter is a must, but fabrics like wool and cotton can cause problems for your hair. These materials absorb moisture from your strands and create friction, which can lead to breakage. To avoid this, opt for satin-lined hats and scarves or wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf before putting on your outerwear. This will keep your hair protected from moisture-sucking fabrics and minimize friction.
4. Hydrate at Night
If you use a heater to stay warm in winter, you may not realize that it can dry out the air and your hair, too. The dry indoor air can strip moisture from your coils while you sleep. To combat this, moisturize your hair before bed using a leave-in conditioner or a lightweight oil. Consider wearing a satin bonnet or sleeping on a satin pillowcase to retain moisture. A humidifier in your bedroom can also help add moisture to the air, keeping your hair hydrated overnight.
5. Keep Your Ends Tucked Away
Your ends are the oldest, most fragile part of your hair, and they need extra protection in winter. The cold weather and friction from scarves and coats can lead to split ends and breakage. Protective hairstyles like braids, twists, buns, and updos can help shield your ends from the elements while reducing manipulation. Tucking your ends away prevents them from rubbing against drying fabrics and keeps them safe from the cold, dry air.
Final Thoughts
Winter can be tough on natural hair, especially for those with type 4 textures. But with the right routine, you can protect your hair from the cold and keep it moisturized and healthy. By reducing shampoo frequency, deep conditioning regularly, being mindful of fabrics, hydrating your hair at night, and keeping your ends protected, you’ll be ready to face the winter months without sacrificing the health of your hair.
