Spring is approaching and our hair is feeling the effects of a long drawn out winter. The dry heat of our homes coupled with our tendency to rely more on blow dryers during this time of year results in dull lifeless hair that craves attention. Here are some important steps on how to get shiny hair, and how to make even gray hair smooth and shiny before spring arrives.

What Causes Hair Damage In The Winter?

Most of us are familiar with the sun’s harsh effects on our hair every spring and summer. But winter weather can be just as damaging! For example, dry air can damage the hair’s cuticle by lifting it and letting moisture escape. This definitely explains why many women experience breakage and frizz during the colder winter months. 

In addition to losing moisture when it’s chilly, high winter winds can also damage hair, causing snags and tangles. And when you go to brush and de-tangle your hair, even more breakage occurs. 

Unfortunately, it’s even worse for color-treated hair. Just like unprotected sun exposure, the harsh winter weather can also cause color-treated hair to lose shine and vibrancy. 

And our least favorite winter hair situation? Static. We’re all familiar with the frizzy, static-filled mess we encounter after removing our favorite sweater or coat. Thanks to the dry, cold air, our hair is definitely crying out for some TLC.

How to Get Shiny Hair

Whether you prefer organic solutions or luxury brands, focusing on a moisturizing regime will help control static, rehydrate thirsty locks, and add shine to your hair. Here are a few brands that we’re especially loving at the moment.

For The All-Natural Enthusiast: Avocados

Avocados are one of nature’s best conditioners. This fruit is full of vitamins and oils that are great for adding strength, moisture, and shine. Adding avocado to your hair can also promote hair growth by stimulating the scalp and can even help prevent dandruff! 

Avocado Hair Mask Recipes

1. Starting with the ends and working up to the scalp, apply a mashed up or blended avocado to freshly cleaned, damp hair. Cover your hair with a shower cap for 15-20 minutes and then rinse out thoroughly. Condition as usual.
2. If you’re experiencing very dry hair, mix together one tablespoon of avocado oil, one teaspoon of olive oil, a half tablespoon of raw honey, and one egg. Cover the hair completely and leave in for approximately 10 minutes then rinse. Shampoo and condition as normal.

For Lady Luxe: Bumble & Bumble Products

Bumble and Bumble is a great product line that offers a hair care system for complete hydration. Try the daily Quenching Shampoo and Quenching Conditioner, along with Overnight Damage Repair Hair Mask that will seal in the moisture and shine. The series is ideal for relieving our hair from the winter doldrums. And yes, it will even help hydrate gray hair.

For The Savvy Shopper: Kerastase

Found in fine salons across the country, the Kerastase Nutritive Masquintense 6.8 oz Hair Thick Mask is guaranteed to replenish the moisture and luster our hair is lacking. Available for fine or thick hair, this concentrated treatment can be used weekly or after each shampoo to make hair feel and look its best. It even works to restore shine and moisture to gray hair! 

What To Remember

Winter weather can be just as damaging to hair as excess sun in the warmer months. So be sure and take necessary steps to show your hair some extra TLC when it’s cold outside. That means investing in a silk pillowcase, opting for silks and avoiding synthetic fabrics (carriers of static electricity), and investing in an extra-hydrating hair product. Following these tips will surely result in your softest, shiniest hair yet! 

Related Article: Whether you’re sprouting a little bit of salt with your pepper or you’re covered in snow, here’s what to know before you visit a pro to color your gray hair.