The onset of winter signifies not only the festive season and various celebrations but also poses challenges for hair health, particularly for those with dry hair. The cold air, commonly linked to winter, tends to strip moisture from your locks. Adequate moisture is crucial; without it, hair can become lacklustre, dry, and frizzy. Neglecting dry hair can lead to brittleness, making it prone to breakage. While the cold and low humidity contributes to these issues, there are effective strategies to enhance hair vitality during winter. Let us explore methods to encourage hair growth in this season.

Does winter have adverse effects on hair?

Winter can be very harsh on hair because of the cold weather and reduced humidity.

• "Dry air is always characteristic of winter; it dries the natural moisture of the hair, making it brittle and causing hair to break off easily," says dermatologist Dr Shifa Yadav.
• The scalp dries up and becomes flaky which can lead to dandruff and an itchy scalp.
• Indoor heating also accelerates the rate of dryness, which weans down the hair shaft, making it easy to split ends.
• Wearing hats or scarves made of wool may lead to static electricity, tangling, and hair damage.

Winter may affect your hair. Image courtesy: Freepik

Does winter affect your hair growth?

Cold weather does not entirely halt hair growth, but some people may be affected by it.

• "When it is cold, the blood circulation to the scalp may decrease due to constricted blood vessels that happen because of the low temperature," shares the expert. This limited circulation may impede the delivery of necessary nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles, which often slows down hair growth.
• There is less sunlight during wintertime, which reduces the levels of vitamin D, known for promoting the stimulation of follicles and the hair growth cycle. This vitamin is involved in hair follicle growth, so when the body does not have enough levels of vitamin D, hair growth may be affected, as per research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2021. Adults should have 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day, according to the UK's National Health Service.
• The scalp may also deteriorate from dryness and flakiness due to cold air and indoor heating.

What are the ways to promote hair growth in winter?

1. Try scalp massage

Regular scalp massages facilitate the effective delivery of nutrients to hair follicles. Dr. Yadav states, "Optimized blood flow to the scalp enhances hair growth." A study conducted in 2016 and published in ePlasty revealed that participants experienced increased hair thickness 24 weeks after initiating scalp massages. To encourage hair growth during the winter months, massage your scalp with your fingertips in circular motions for approximately 10 minutes each day or several times a week.

2. Employ moisturizing oils  

Natural remedies such as coconut oil, castor oil, and argan oil are excellent for combating dryness in the winter. According to experts, "Utilizing moisturizing oils can enhance hair growth during winter by minimizing breakage and imparting shine and health to the hair while shielding it from cold, dry air." Warm the oil and gently massage it into your scalp and hair. Allow it to sit for at least one hour before washing it out with a mild shampoo to support hair growth in winter.

3. Maintain a healthy diet  

The choices you make regarding your diet can significantly impact your hair health. Experts indicate that "Nutrients such as biotin, zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids contribute to stronger hair, support growth, and help prevent breakage." A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil could promote hair growth. Incorporate biotin-rich foods like eggs, almonds, and avocados; zinc-rich options such as spinach and red meat; and omega-3 sources like fish, chia seeds, and walnuts into your daily meals.

4. Hair serums

Minoxidil-based hair serums can combat hair loss by stimulating hair follicles and enhancing blood circulation. "The hair serums can be used to increase hair density, and promote faster hair growth in winter," says the expert. Use them directly on a small thinning spot or patches where hair is bald and continue using it for a few months, to see notable differences.

5. Supplements

Poor hair health is often connected to nutritional deficiencies. "In addition to a healthy diet, you can also have supplements such as vitamin D, B-complex vitamins, and collagen," says the expert. These provide essential nutrients to hair follicles, and encourage robust hair growth in winter. But consult an expert before introducing supplements into your daily routine.

Choose the right shampoo to promote hair growth in winter. Image courtesy: Freepik

6. Ketoconazole shampoo

This antifungal shampoo effectively addresses dandruff while alleviating scalp inflammation that can hinder hair growth during the winter months. Dr. Yadav states, "It alleviates itching, calms inflammation, and fosters a healthy scalp environment conducive to hair growth." It is recommended to apply the ketoconazole shampoo two to three times weekly, gently massaging it into the scalp and allowing it to sit for several minutes before rinsing.

7. Laser Therapy  

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) employs laser technology to activate dormant hair follicles, enhancing their function by promoting improved blood circulation and cellular regeneration. Research published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery in 2021 indicates that this treatment may encourage hair growth in individuals experiencing hair loss.

8. Avoid Washing Hair with Hot Water  

During winter, the temptation to wash hair and body with very hot water may arise. However, it is advisable to refrain from this practice, as hot water strips the scalp and hair of natural oils, leading to dryness, breakage, and fragile strands. Experts recommend using lukewarm water to minimize damage, reduce hair breakage, and maintain the overall health of hair.

9. Address Inflammatory Disorders  

Individuals with conditions such as psoriasis should exercise caution, as severe flare-ups are more prevalent in autumn and winter, according to research published in the Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology journal in 2021. "This condition can lead to inflammation that compromises hair follicles, hindering their growth," notes the expert. Therefore, managing psoriasis can help reduce inflammation, prevent hair thinning, and create a healthy scalp environment. Treatment options may include medicated shampoos, corticosteroids, or light therapy to alleviate inflammation and support hair growth during the winter months.

10. Moisture control

Humidifiers play a crucial role in maintaining optimal moisture levels within indoor environments. According to experts, these devices are particularly essential during the cold winter months when lower temperatures lead to decreased atmospheric moisture, resulting in dryness and irritation. Utilizing humidifiers can help mitigate scalp dryness and flakiness, thereby fostering a conducive environment for hair growth during winter. Once a humidifier is installed in your bedroom or living area, it is advisable to maintain humidity levels between 30 to 50 per cent to effectively hydrate your scalp and encourage hair growth throughout the winter season.

Deep conditioning is vital for maintaining healthy hair; however, applying conditioner directly to the roots can lead to clogged hair follicles, hindering hair growth. Experts recommend focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of the hair to prevent breakage, enhance shine, and nourish the strands. After washing your hair with shampoo, apply a DIY deep conditioner or a commercially available product exclusively to the mid-lengths and ends.

The cold air can adversely impact your hair, resulting in dryness and brittleness. Nevertheless, it is possible to support hair growth during the winter months. Incorporating scalp massages and deep conditioning into your winter hair care regimen is essential for optimal results.

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