For many of us, the Winter season brings cold temperatures that impact more than our wardrobe. We’re talking about symptoms like dull skin and dry hair. So, we turned to our experts for help. Here are a few tips to get you through the cold Winter months.

DON’T BE PARCHED

During this time of year, it’s easy to drink more coffee and wine and less water. It’s not easy to drink 8 glasses a day, so try to drink at least one glass of water for every cup of coffee, glass of wine or cocktail you have in a day. This helps to counteract the dehydrating effects of these beverages while achieving your water drinking goals. 

TEA TIME

We always drink more tea in the fall and winter. Green Tea has some of the most powerful antioxidants for not only your skin but your entire body. And Camomile Tea can serve double duty not only as a refreshment but eye compresses too. Just steep 2 tea bags for about 5 minutes. Wring them out a bit. Pop them in the fridge for 15-20 minutes and then apply to your eyes for 10 minutes. This help with puffiness and dry eyes. 

FLAKES AND NOT THE SNOWY KIND

Not in a I don’t show up kind of way but in a dry, ashy way. It starts with the body so try to use more moisturizing body washes, body creams and oils. Also, try to limit the hot showers. It’s hard when it’s cold but after 20 minutes, you’re not doing your skin any favors. And, also put moisturizer on damp skin. You will be amazed at the difference.

Lets not forget the scalp which can get flaky. When it comes to the scalp pay attention to dryness as well as dandruff which is beyond dryness and caused by a fungus. Ketoconazole is the most recommended remedy and can be found in Nizoral Shampoo. A natural alternative is Tea tree oil as well. Make your own hot oil treatment by combining a couple of tablespoons of jojoba oil and 10 drops of tea tree oil. Place it in a glass or plastic bottle. (Check your beauty supply store). Warm it up by sitting it in a warm bowl of water. DO NOT MICROWAVE! Then apply to scalp. Let it sit for up to 30 minutes and rinse. Flake Free. 

Finally, don’t forget to schedule a routine facial (at lease quarterly). You will notice the positive impacts of professional care and pampering right away. Your skin will thank you with a glow!

At Home - To address the impacts of moisture loss during the cold season, Ashleigh recommends the following, some of which can be done at home:

·      A good old fashion oil treatment is always good.

Oil treatments can be done at home by first washing the hair once to remove build-up, then towel dry and dousing the hair with extra virgin olive oil, covering with a shower cap and letting the hair sit with the cap on for 30 minutes or 15 minutes under a hooded hair dryer and then shampooing to remove the excess oil and condition.  This process can be done every 3 weeks.

Cleansing conditioners work wonders.

Somewhat like a co-wash but with more cleansing properties. Imagine your best deep conditioner and shampoo all mixed in one. It’s low in suds production and high in hydration which is great to infuse more moisture during cold months.

Salon Treatments

For salon moisture enriching and strengthening treatments, Ashleigh offers the following to clients:

o   Protein treatments to restore the bonds of hair and strengthen hair for a healthy foundation can be done every 6 to 8 weeks

o   The Milbone treatment for intense moisture, which is a 5-step process can also be done every 6 to 8 weeks. It works on a cellular level, going beneath the cuticle to work inside out providing amazing results. The treatment gives an uber level of moisture to the hair subsequently providing defined curls as well as a smooth and shiny finish. It is great following a color treatment or to simply treat dry hair.

Winter Wear

Don’t forget to choose the right hats and scarves in your efforts to maintain hair health during Winter.

o   Either wear a silk scarf under your Winter hat to keep hair moisturized or purchase a silk or satin lined hat. Ashleigh and September Set recommend http://www.graceeleyae.com

o   Wear a 100% cashmere hat to prevent hair breakage

o   Wear a 100% cashmere scarf to prevent hair breakage around the nape of the neck