7 Hair-Care Tips To Combat Seasonal Hairfall

 As the seasons change, so does the quality of one’s hair. The different challenges that come with this are dryness, brittleness, and the most dreaded - seasonal hair fall. Losing a few extra strands during the transition is normal, but by taking some preventive measures one can minimize hair loss and enable them to stay voluminous.

Here are seven effective and simple tips to combat seasonal hair fall and maintain healthy, beautiful hair throughout the year.

• Essential Oil Scalp Massages - A soothing scalp massage is not only calming but also helps in reducing hair fall. Using essential oils made of rosemary, lavender and peppermint, amongst others, can stimulate blood flow to the follicles, thus promoting hair growth and improving scalp health. Spending a few minutes every week to gently massage warm oil into the scalp can nourish the hair roots and keep it hydrated.
• Use A Satin Or Silk Pillowcase – A person’s hair endures a lot of friction as they toss and turn in their sleep. Cotton tends to pull on the hair strands and causes breakage, thus increasing fall. Swapping for a satin or silk pillowcase will help to reduce friction as well as prevent moisture loss from hair, reducing the likelihood of brittle breaks and giving it a smooth, healthy look.
• Protect Hair from Sudden Temperature Changes - Extreme weather conditions—such as stepping directly from the cold into a heated indoor setting—could weaken hair strands, thereby making them fall off easily. Wearing a scarf or hat when going outdoors can prevent hair from getting dry by the strong winds and cold air. While staying indoors, using a mild heating system to prevent dryness of the hair and scalp can be very helpful.
• Avoid UV Exposure - Even during colder months, UV rays can damage the hair by breaking down their structure and causing dryness. To avoid these damages caused by excessive exposure to sunlight, using a wide-brimmed hat or hair products that have built-in UV protection helps. This is another layer of care that strengthens one’s hair and prevents shedding.
• Sleeping with a Humidifier On - Cold weather often brings in dry air that dehydrates the hair and the scalp. Sleeping with a humidifier on, helps restore hydration into the air, keeping the scalp moisturized and preventing hair breakage. It is considered to be one of the easiest and simplest ways to deal with seasonal dryness while minimizing hair fall.
• Refrain from Heat Styling - Heat styling tools such as straighteners and curlers can further damage an already stressed hair affected by seasonal changes. Opting for natural hairstyles and hot-free styling can significantly minimize damage. If one must use heat, it is important to remember that they should always apply a heat protectant spray to reduce harm.
• Avoid Colouring – It is advised to avoid bleaching and colouring hair during the winter or dry seasons, as it can cause excessive dryness of hair and lead to shedding.

Seasonal hair loss is temporary and can be easily managed. Implementing these seven easy yet effective tips in the hair care routine can protect the beautiful locks from harsh conditions that come with changing weather. These strategies will make one’s hair shine, making it look healthy and lustrous all year round.

Dr. Priyanka Kuri, Consultant – Dermatology, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru