Ways to care for hair in winter

Let’s face it, we all want the perfect, flawless hair look that our favorite stars like Nancy Ajram, Yasmine Sabry, and Nadine Njeim flaunt with ease. But with endless options and a barrage of recommendations, you may feel overwhelmed. Where do we even start? Before you make drastic decisions (like cutting off all your hair – please don’t do that!), why not start with some simple at-home treatments? Dr. Shruti Kakkar, a cosmetic dermatologist, gives you her best at-home hair care tips to help you get healthy, Instagram-ready hair all year round.

Shampoo: The first step towards a good hair care routine
The basics of any great hair care routine start with the right shampoo. Harsh shampoos that contain strong chemicals or sulfates can strip your scalp and hair of natural oils, leaving your strands dry, brittle, and vulnerable to damage. To maintain a healthy scalp and strong, shiny hair, start your routine with a shampoo that is gentle on both the scalp and hair.

How to use:
When choosing a shampoo, look for formulas labeled “sulfate-free” or “for sensitive scalp.” Sulfates, commonly found in most shampoos, are surfactants that create lather, but they may also strip away the very important oils that keep your hair moisturized and protected. By using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo, your hair will thank you by staying hydrated, soft and shiny!
Using conditioner after shampoo is a necessity that cannot be ignored
How many of us remember to use conditioner regularly after washing our hair? It may seem like a timeless extra step, right? Well, not quite. Shampoo cleans your hair, but it also opens the hair pores and removes moisture. Here comes the role of balm to compensate for lost moisture and close pores.

How to use:
After washing the hair, gently squeeze out the excess water. Apply conditioner mainly to the ends, where the hair is driest. Avoid applying it directly to the scalp, especially if your hair is fine or oily. Leave the conditioner on for at least 3-5 minutes to allow it to penetrate and moisturize the hair.

Advice for professionals:
For curly or frizzy hair, the conditioner that is left on the hair is considered a radical change. Apply to damp hair from roots to ends to create defined curls and reduce frizz.
Hot oil treatment after shampoo: A home hair care day
You’ve probably heard about the benefits of hot oil treatments, but they’re nothing new. But have you tried a hot oil treatment after showering? Shampoo can strip your hair of its natural oils, so it’s important to replenish it immediately.

How to use:

Apply a generous amount of oil to freshly washed hair. Gently massage the oil into your scalp, then distribute it to the ends. Wrap your hair with a warm towel for 15-20 minutes. The warmth helps open the hair pores, allowing nourishing ingredients to penetrate deeply. After 20 minutes, rinse your hair well to get healthy and radiant hair.

Hair care according to its type: There is no solution that suits everyone
Choosing the perfect oil is like choosing your favorite café, it’s all about the right blend! Your hair type determines the effectiveness of certain oils, so achieving the perfect balance is key.

How do you mix oils?

For thick hair that is prone to frizz: Mix almond oil with sesame and coconut oil. This mixture will deeply moisturize the hair and add wonderful shine.

For fine hair: Try a mixture of coconut oil, castor oil, and henna. This will give you volume and density.

Perfect hair when you wake up

You may have seen TikTok clips of women wrapping their hair with silk scarves before bed. It’s not just a fashion statement! This simple step helps prevent breakage caused by friction, reduces frizz, and retains moisture.

How to use:

Before bed, apply a small amount of argan oil, coconut oil, or light conditioner. Gently comb your hair to distribute the product evenly. Wrap your hair with a silk scarf or wear a silk headdress.

Hair care secrets

Avoid hot water: Hot water is an enemy to the hair, as it removes natural oils. Use warm or cold water to maintain hair shine.
Follow a balanced diet: Nourish your hair from the inside by eating foods rich in protein, iron, and omega-3 acids.
Give your hair a break: Limiting the use of heat styling tools improves the health of your hair.
Finally, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get perfect hair. With a little time and care, you can achieve healthy, shiny hair at home. (seventh day)