It’s (almost) the most wonderful time of year! 

While the holiday season presents feel-good opportunities to celebrate with loved ones, the chilly weather that comes with it can also bring its own set of challenges for your hair.

“The colder temperatures often lead to dry air, which increases the need for moisture for your hair, skin, and scalp,” says Amber Thorne, K18’s Director of Education, Design, and Development. “Aggressors to hair health during winter can include prolonged exposure to cold air, wind, and even the sun. For those who relish the invigorating outdoor chill, it's easy to overlook that UV rays continue to wreak havoc on your tresses throughout the season.” 

No matter your hair type, Thorne suggests making a few simple adjustments to your routine to keep your hair healthy this season. Keep reading for her expert-approved guide and must-try tricks:

Hair problems, solved

Problem: Tired, dry, thirsty hair

Solution: Replenish lost moisture with K18 DAMAGE SHIELD pH Protective Shampoo and K18 DAMAGE SHIELD Protective Conditioner. The shampoo helps reduce frizz, tangles, and promotes shine, while the conditioner protects hair from damage for up to 3 days–making it ideal for those who love experimenting with their hair during special occasions.

Problem: Heat styling due to back-to-back holiday parties

Solution: “High temperatures can weaken the hair structure, making it more susceptible to breakage and split ends over time,” says Thorne. She recommends prepping your hair with K18 Leave-In Molecular Hair Mask, which works on the molecular level to immediately reverse hair damage, leading to stronger, softer, smoother, bouncier hair in just 4 minutes.* 

Problem: Succumbing your hair to hot and cold temps

Solution: “Cold air holds less moisture, which can lead to dry, brittle hair,” says Thorne. “Indoor heating further exacerbates this by stripping away moisture.” She recommends using the K18 Molecular Repair Oil, a weightless oil that strengthens hair and provides 24-hour frizz control.*

Problem: Wearing too-tight hairstyles

Solution: Opting for high ponytails and top knots on a regular basis makes hair susceptible to breakage and split ends over time, shares Thorne, who cites K18 Leave-In Molecular Hair Mask as optimal pre-wash prep and “for extra hydration and protection.”

Problem: Chemically treating your hair in time for the new year

Solution: New hair, new you! If you’re undergoing chemical treatments—like dyeing your hair—at the salon, ask for K18 REPAIR to “maintain hair health,” says Thorne of the 2-step salon-exclusive damage repair service that protects, strengthens, and preserves hair health through lightener, color, chemical services, and heat.*

Practical tips to consider

Outside of making K18 a consistent part of your hair care routine, Thorne offers a handful of practical tips to help you protect your hair this season:

• Stay hydrated: Make water your best friend every day to ensure your body and hair are properly hydrated, from the inside out.  

• Eat your nutrients: Nothing beats enjoying a balanced diet rich in vitamins, good fats, and minerals for hair health. Consider adding spinach, salmon, and avocados to your menu.

• Limit heat styling: Taking a break from tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling wands is key. “But if you do use heat,” says Thorne, “Apply a heat protectant like K18 Molecular Repair Oil to shield your hair.”

• Use a humidifier: Adding moisture into the air with a humidifier can benefit your skin and hair health.

• Invest in accessories: Reduce friction and static with silk- or satin-lined hats. The same is true for headbands, ear muffs, and any other hair-hugging accessories.