What winter weather does to red hair: tips for keeping it vibrant

As winter rolls in, it’s not just your skin that needs extra TLC; your red hair can also suffer from the season’s harsh conditions. The drop in temperature, UV and humidity can leave your strands looking dull and lifeless, making it crucial to adapt your hair care routine to combat these effects. Here’s how winter affects your gorgeous ginger locks and what you can do to maintain its vibrant colour and health during the colder months.

Does red hair get duller in winter?

Yes, it may certainly seem so! Here are three reasons why:

1. Reduced sunlight exposure: in winter, the reduction in sunlight means you’re exposed to less UV, which naturally lightens hair. This seasonal change can make red hair appear darker and less vibrant.
2. Cooler temperatures: the drop in temperature makes it harder for your hair to retain moisture, leading to dryness, brittleness, and overall dullness. This is particularly true for red hair, which is naturally more prone to dryness than other hair types.
3. Seasonal hormonal changes: increased melatonin production in winter can also influence hair pigmentation, subtly affecting your red shade to appear slightly darker.

7 tips for keeping your red hair vibrant in winter

1. Deep moisturising treatments: use a hydrating hair mask at least once a week to restore lost moisture. Look for products containing natural oils like coconut or jojoba, such as Gingerful’s Henna & Rose hair mask, which provides deep nourishment, boosts colour and helps maintain shine.
2. Gentle cleansing: switch to sulphate-free shampoos that are less harsh on your delicate red hair and scalp. Over-washing can also strip your hair of natural oils, so aim to wash your hair less frequently to preserve its natural moisture. You should find that by swapping to sulphate-free products that going longer between washes becomes easier.
3. Henna-infused products for redheads: gentle henna-infused products can help to give a little extra oomph to your red hair colour in a natural-looking way, without making it look like it’s been painted/dyed.
4. Heat protection: if you must use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from damage. Better yet, embrace natural air drying whenever possible.
5. Cold weather protection: wear a hat or scarf to protect your hair from the harsh, dry winter air. Materials like silk or satin will help to minimise friction and prevent breakage.
6. Humidifier use: consider investing in a humidifier for your home to counteract the drying effects of indoor heating. This will help keep both your hair and skin hydrated.
7. Regular trims: keep split ends at bay with regular trims every 6-8 weeks. This will help maintain the health of your hair and prevent further damage, too.

Just because it’s getting grey and dull out there, doesn’t mean your red hair has to!