Wearing a hat can be especially annoying in the winter – your hair tends to get tangled under the hat and your scalp starts to sweat. However, it is very important for the health of your hair, as cold temperatures and wind can make your hair dry and brittle. Here are some tips on how to wear a hat in the winter so that your hair stays beautiful under the hat.
There are several reasons why you should definitely wear a hat in winter:
Cold and wind dry out your hair
In winter, hair tends to be brittle, but cold air and strong winds make it even more so, stripping moisture from your hair and making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
Temperature swings damage your hair
When you go from a cold outside to a warm inside, stress builds up in your hair and scalp, which can lead to hair breakage and frizz. If you go straight from the outside to the store in the winter, for example, the temperature change won’t have as noticeable an effect on your scalp as it would without a hat.
Scalp protection
Cold air constricts blood vessels in your scalp, which can temporarily reduce blood flow to your hair roots. A hat helps keep your scalp warm and supports normal hair growth.
A hat protects your hair from moisture and snow
Snow and cold moisture can damage your hair fibers, especially when your hair freezes in sub-zero temperatures.
Hair gets tangled under a hat mainly due to friction and dry air, but this can be prevented. Here are some tips on how to avoid it:
Before wearing a hat:
- Lightly moisturize your hair – use conditioner, hair oil or moisturizing spray (especially on the ends). Dry, unmoisturized hair is the most prone to tangling.
- Detangle your hair – Hair in a hat will tangle even more under a hat, so it’s a good idea to comb it out first.
- Avoid hairspray before a hat – hairspray makes your hair stiff and encourages tangling.
How to choose the right hat:
- Choose a hat with a smooth lining – silk or satin are best, as rough wool directly against your hair will cause frizz.
- The hat should not be too tight – excessive pressure and friction will make your hair tangle more.
- Choose a hood + thin hat instead of a beanie – this will create even less friction in your hair.
Hairstyles that stay on better under a hat
- Low braid or pigtails
- Low bun
- Put your hair in a hat, don’t leave it open
After taking the hat off:
- Do not brush dry and frizzy hair with force, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb instead.
- A drop of oil or serum will instantly calm your hair.
- To combat static electricity, apply moisturizing spray or moisturizing cream to your palms (a very small amount!) and smooth it over your hair.
Additional tips:
- Wear a silk scarf under your hat – the perfect solution if you don’t plan on replacing your hat.
- Get your hair cut regularly – split ends will be easier to style.
- Apply a moisturizing mask once a week
