As we trade in sun-soaked days for cooler weather, it’s important to adjust your hair care routine accordingly. Just as heat and humidity can lead to frizz, the crisp autumn air can be tough on your crown too. Learn how to combat this with our ultimate curly hair guide for fall!
The effects of Cooler weather on Curly Hair
You might wonder why it’s so important to switch up your curl routine during the fall and winter months. Well, as the temperature drops, so does the moisture in the air. In warm, humid weather, your hair can draw in moisture from the environment, which helps keep your curls hydrated. But during fall and winter, the opposite happens—moisture is pulled out of your curls and into the atmosphere. This can leave your hair feeling drier and more brittle than usual. Since curly hair is naturally prone to dryness, it’s crucial to compensate by incorporating more hydrating products and practices into your routine.
Another important factor to consider is the impact of winter caps, scarves, and even certain sweaters on your hair. These fabrics can rub against your strands, causing additional dryness and breakage. That’s why having a solid winter hair care routine is essential. In this post, we’ll share our top tips for keeping your curls nourished and protected this fall.
Fall Hair Care 101
Use Hydrating Cleansers During Winter: When the temperature drops, it’s time to switch out your usual cleanser for a hydrating one like our Curl Renew Shampoo. This gentle cleanser not only cleanses but also hydrates your crown without stripping away its natural oils. The key is to maximize moisture as much as possible, so your hair can withstand the harsh winter air. This simple change will help keep your curls soft, bouncy, and damage-free all season long.
Deep Condition More Often: Deep conditioning is a must year-round, but during fall and winter, it’s crucial to step up your routine. Treat your curls to more frequent or longer deep conditioning sessions with Unconditional Love to lock in moisture and keep your hair resilient against the cold, dry weather.
Don’t Skip the Leave-In: While you might skip leave-in conditioner during the warmer months, it’s essential not to miss this step in winter. The extra hydration provided by a leave-in conditioner is vital for helping your curls thrive in the harsh, dry air.
Seal in Moisture: As temperatures drop, sealing in moisture becomes even more important. Reach for richer products like butters, pomades and oils to create a protective barrier against the cold. Pay special attention to your ends—they’re the most fragile and dry part of your hair, so protecting them will help prevent breakage and maintain your length.
Don’t Forget to Clarify: While using a moisturizing shampoo weekly is great for keeping your hair hydrated, it’s also important to clarify your crown. Occasional use of a chelating or clarifying shampoo, such as Curl Renaissance, helps remove any product buildup that may accumulate as you switch to heavier, more moisturizing products for fall. This is especially important if you’re using more oils and butters to seal in moisture. Clarifying once a month gives your hair a fresh start, ensuring your curls stay bouncy and full of life.
Use Products with Humectants: Humectants are your best friend when it comes to maintaining moisture in the colder months. These ingredients attract and retain moisture, helping to keep your curls hydrated despite the dry air. If you’re looking for the perfect winter styler, try our Hold It Right There! It will not only define your curls but it is packed with amazing humectants that will help keep your strands hydrated even during colder months.
Wear Protective styles: Protective styles are a fantastic way to safeguard your curls from the harsh fall and winter elements. Braids, twists, and buns not only minimize manipulation, reducing the risk of breakage, but they also help protect your ends from the cold, dry air. These styles help maintain moisture and length, making them essential for fall hair care. Remember to moisturize your hair before styling and choose styles that aren’t too tight, as excessive tension can cause damage. Incorporating protective styles into your routine will help your curls thrive, even in the coldest months.
Use Silk-Lined Winter Accesories: As you bundle up for the colder weather, don't forget to protect your curls from the friction caused by wool hats, scarves, and coats. Opt for silk or satin-lined winter accessories, which are much gentler on your hair. Silk and satin help retain moisture and reduce friction, ensuring that your curls stay smooth and healthy. You can even line your existing winter hats and scarves with silk or satin fabric to give your gorgeous crown the extra protection it needs!
Fall doesn’t have to mean frizzy, dry curls. By adjusting your hair care routine to include more moisture, protection, and gentle handling, you can keep your curls looking their best all season long. Now you can embrace the changing weather with confidence, knowing that your crown will remain healthy, hydrated, and stunning no matter how cold it gets!
