4 Easy Winter Hairstyles to Try This Year
Winter can be a challenging season for our hair. The cold weather, combined with dry indoor heat, can leave our locks feeling lackluster and brittle. But fear not! With the right knowledge and some easy styling techniques, you can keep your hair on its A game all winter long.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of seasonal hairstyles and provide you with a detailed guide to four hairstyles for cold weather that are both stylish and practical!
Understanding the Importance of Seasonal Hairstyles
Many people underestimate the impact that seasonal changes can have on their hair health. Winter, in particular, poses some unique challenges. The cold temperatures can cause the hair cuticles to tighten, leading to breakage. Additionally, the lack of moisture in the air can leave our hair feeling dry and brittle.
But why is it important to understand the impact of winter on our hair health? Well, during this season, our hair is exposed to extreme temperature changes. Moving from the freezing cold outdoors to the warm indoors can cause the hair to expand and contract, which can weaken the strands over time. Not to mention the lack of humidity in the air can strip our hair of moisture, leading to dryness and static.
Dr. Joe Cincotta, Color Wow Chief Chemist, says, “Humidity or moisture content of the air has a profound effect on the hair. Water molecules are very small, and when in the gaseous state in air, can easily move in or out of a hair fiber depending on the humidity levels that the hair is exposed to.
“My biggest concern regarding colder weather is the very low humidity levels in the cold air.
Therefore, when your hair is exposed to the low humidity levels found in cold air, water molecules inside the hair will migrate out of the hair shaft leaving the hair feeling and looking dry.”
So, what can you do to protect your hair during winter? Changing your hairstyle for winter is not just about staying on-trend; it's about adapting to the specific needs of your hair during this season. By opting for hairstyles that protect and nourish your hair, you can minimise winter damage and keep your locks looking healthy, hydrated and glossy.
To find out more about caring for your hair during the colder months, take a look at our guide to winter hair problems.
Prepping Your Hair for Winter Styling
Before we dive into the different winter hairstyles, it's important to take care of the foundation. By following a few essential hair care tips, you can ensure that your hair is in its best condition to withstand the harsh winter weather.
1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
It’s important to amp up your moisturising efforts to combat the winter dryness. One way to do this is to add a deep conditioner, like Money Masque, to your weekly routine for a liquid IV-like infusion in just 3 minutes. Another option is to use a leave-in conditioner, like Coconut Cocktail or Flo-etry, which provide both moisturisation and hydration to parched strands.
2. Avoid excessive heat styling, as this can further dry out your hair.
If you must use hot tools, always apply a heat protectant beforehand. Read more about how to prevent heat damage on your hair without having to give up your styling tools within our guide.
“Heat protectants found in all Color Wow Formulas (except the shampoo and Dream Filter) prevent thermal degradation of the proteins in your hair from blow drying, flat irons and curling irons. These heat protectants are an absolute must, especially for chemically-processed hair,” says Dr. Joe.
Whether you’re looking for big, voluminous hair or smooth, sleek hair, our Color Wow heat protectants have you covered.
3. Trim your hair regularly.
4. Minimise exposure to cold air.
Wearing a hat or scarf when outdoors will not only protect your hair from the elements but also help retain moisture.
4 Easy Winter Hairstyles to Wear in the Colder Months
1. Easy Braided Bun: A Winter Staple
Braids are a timeless hairstyle that are perfect for winter. Not only do they keep your hair secure and protected, but they also add an elegant touch to your overall look.
To achieve this winter hairstyle, first saturate your roots with Cult Favorite hairspray. This firm yet flexible hairspray keeps hair soft and brushable (never sticky or stiff!), making it perfect for brushing hair back into a snatched low ponytail. Secure with an elastic.
Next, apply Pop + Lock to your ponytail before braiding. Its unique oil-serum formula helps smooth down the cuticle for effortless braiding that won’t come undone with flyaways. Secure the end of the braid with a clear elastic.
Wrap the braid around the base of your ponytail and secure with a pin. Finish with a quick misting of Extra Shine Spray for a seriously glossy finish.
@colorwow.hair A main character bun moment ✨ @Joseph Maine uses Cult-Favorite Hairspray for smoothness + Pop & Lock for shine 🤩 #colorwow #sofiarichiebun #sofiarichiewedding #bridalbun #bridalhair #sofiarichiehair #bridalhairstyle ♬ Pretty (Sped Up) - MEYY
2. The Messy Bun: Perfect for Snowy Days
On those days when you just want to throw your hair up and go, the messy bun is the perfect choice. Not only does it keep your hair out of your face, but it also adds a chic and effortless vibe to your look.
To create a messy bun, split your hair down the middle. Create a high ponytail on each side. On the last loop of your ponytail, pull the hair through into a bun. Once you have two buns, cross them over on each other and pin into place.
Pull out a few face-framing pieces for a relaxed feel and spritz with Style on Steroids Texturising Spray for instant sexy texture and added volume.
3. The Voluminous Ponytail: Lowkey and glam
A big, bouncy ponytail is always a mood boost, especially in the dead of winter. Not to mention it’s perfect for any occasion.
To create a voluminous ponytail, first gather the top half of your hair into a half-up ponytail. Secure with an elastic. Then, split the bottom half of your hair into two sections and wrap them around the top of your ponytail before securing with an elastic.
Pro Tip: Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the elastic and spray with Cult Favorite to secure it in place without bobby pins. You can also tease the crown of your hair for some added volume and finish with a shine-enhancing hairspray, like Extra Shine Spray. It’s perfect for adding intense gloss without the greasy feel.
4. The Half-Up, Half-Down: Versatile and Stylish
The half-up, half-down hairstyle is a classic option for winter. It allows you to showcase both your hair and face while keeping your locks off your face.
To create this look, section your hair from ear to ear, creating a half-up ponytail at the top of your head. Secure with an elastic band. For added oomph, slide out the elastic band slightly, create a hole in the middle, then flip your ponytail through. Finish with a hairspray to keep everything in place.
@colorwow.hair @Chrisappleton1 shares his simple hair hack for extra volume...have you tried it yet?! 💕💗 #colorwow #volumehair #volumehairhack #hairhack #ponytailhack #ponytailhairstyle ♬ original sound - Color Wow Hair
Maintaining Your Winter Hairstyle
Protecting Your Hair from Winter Damage
In addition to choosing the right hairstyles for winter, it's important to take steps to protect your hair from further damage. Here are a few quick tips:
- Avoid excessive brushing or combing, as it can cause breakage, especially when your hair is wet.
- Use a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction and prevent hair breakage.
- Avoid using hot water when washing your hair, as it can strip away natural oils and exacerbate dryness.
- Deep condition your hair regularly to keep it hydrated and nourished.
- Consider using a leave-in conditioner or a protective hair serum before going outside to shield your hair from the cold air and wind.
By following these tips and incorporating these easy winter hairstyles into your routine, you can keep your hair looking healthy, hydrated and glam all season long. Remember, nourishing and protecting your hair is key to maintaining its health and beauty.
So, embrace the winter season and try out these stylish hairstyles to keep your locks looking their best!
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