While regular use of a leave-in conditioner or a hair mask is almost always a great idea regardless of season, it is especially important during the cold winter months. A leave-in conditioner can help provide more long-lasting moisture for regular to slightly dry hair types when used on a weekly basis, while those with more dry, brittle hair would benefit from a more heavy-duty hair mask. Again, once a week is the goal, though you’re welcome to upgrade to twice a week if your hair is especially prone to dryness.

Wash Hair Less

Regardless of your hair type, you’re going to wash your hair just a little bit less during the winter. Hair-washing strips the hair of its natural oils, hence the need to immediately follow shampoo with a moisturizing conditioner. However, during the winter your hair may be extra susceptible to dryness and breakage, and your normal washing routine just might be a bit much for your hair. Try to add an extra day or two between washes during the winter time for best results.

Use a Humidifier

One of the main reasons that the colder winter air causes our hair so much grief is that cold air carries less moisture than warm hair, which means that the air becomes much less humid. As a result, the moisture in your hair begins to compensate for the lack of moisture in the air by leeching from the cuticle, leading to moisture loss and breakage. A great way to combat this is by installing a humidifier in areas like your bedroom and office, which will help keep the moisture levels even and your hair in tip top shape.

Trim Hair More Frequently

For those with a tendency to develop split ends and broken hair strands, you’ll find that this annoying occurrence will only become more common during the winter. To keep your hair looking its best, you’ll want to get your hair trimmed much more frequently as to remove those pesky split ends.