It’s official: today is the first day of Fall! For lovers of pumpkin-spiced lattes, the changing of leaf colors, and Halloween, this is welcomed news. However, for those whose hair responds dramatically to the seasonal weather change, this news is cause for alarm. After adjusting to months of warm summer air, the sudden temperature drop can send some hair types into a tailspin. Thankfully, we’ve included some important tips to prepare your hair for the Fall season!
Fall Hair Tip #1: Trim Your Hair ASAP
When it comes to split ends, few things are more effective than just simply getting your hair trimmed, as you are literally cutting off the split ends completely and letting thicker, healthier sections of hair take its place. The tips of our hair tend to be the driest, and it is here where the sudden change in temperature will be most evident. While your ends may look hydrated and intact now, it is very likely that the Fall weather could cause a sudden bout of split ends and frizz. Stay one step ahead by getting your hair trimmed as soon as possible!
Fall Hair Tip #2: Increase Hair Mask Frequency
Along the same lines as Tip #1, the key here is to stay ahead of the weather-induced dryness. Even if you only need to use a hair mask once-a-week or every-other-week, you’ll want to increase the frequency of your masking to mitigate any potential moisture loss when the temperature begins to dip. While it may seem like overkill now, your hair will thank you later when its full of moisture and hydration in the cold Autumn months!
Fall Tip #3: Switch Your Shampoo and Conditioner
For many, there seems to be a commonly accepted myth that shampoo and conditioner suddenly “stops working” on your hair after a few months. The truth is that your hair’s needs can change dramatically depending on the weather, and thus a lightweight conditioner might not work as well when the weather is colder, and the air is drier. If you know your hair is susceptible to dryness, switch up your shampoo and conditioner for a more rich, moisturizing duo.
Fall Tip #4: Avoid Hot Showers
One of the most common causes of hair damage is excessive washing of the hair with overly hot water, as the hot temperatures weaken the hair fiber and damage the outer cuticle layer. Because the drop in temperature also comes with lower humidity in the air, the hair can easily lose moisture, thus weakening its overall structure. The result? Hair that is even more prone to damage from hot water than usual. To prevent this, simply turn the temperature down in the shower, ideally somewhere in the “lukewarm” range.
