Don’t Let Hair Static Ruin Your Life This Winter

'Tis the season for spiked cider, oversized sweaters, and uncontrollable static. The winter chill has hit many areas of the country, leaving ice, cold, snow, and lots of static in its wake. Just as the summer months promise humidity that often leads to frizzy hair, winter weather practically guarantees a hefty dose of static — which creates an entirely different set of hair issues.

The bone-dry winter climate means less moisture is in the air, and static electricity at its peak. If you're looking for a sleek, polished 'do, you probably won't be thrilled when you wind up with hair that's standing on end! And, that bedhead-chic style you were going for? It'll probably look more messy than anything you were envisioning. Here are my top-four tips for dealing with uncontrollable static and keeping your hair looking the way you want it.

Bump Up The Moisture Make sure to use a hydrating mask once or twice a week. My go-to product is Kerastase’s Masque Elixir Ultime. This nourishing oil treatment, which infuses strands with strength and shine, is perfect for all hair types. Hydration is key any time of year, but it's especially essential during the cold, dry winter months.

One easy way of preserving your natural moisture is to make sure you don’t over do it with the shampoo. Both your hair and scalp are drier during winter, so you don’t have to shampoo nas frequently as you do in the humid, summer months when your scalp tends to build up oil quickly. In general, the more frequently you shampoo, the faster your hair will appear oily.

I recommend shampooing only two to three times a week for thick, coarse hair and three to four times for thin, fine hair. Instead of reaching for the shampoo when you're in the shower, grab the conditioner and apply generously to the ends. This will give you the clean sensation without actually shampooing. Spacing out your shampoo sessions may seem unnatural at first, but it should start to feel normal after just two weeks of changing your routine. By extending the time between washes, your strands will feel and look noticeably shinier and healthier!

Go For The Static Guard Keep travel-sized static guard and dryer sheets in your purse to reduce static while you’re on the go. You can even spray your hairbrush with static guard before you use it. This obvious trick is easy to dismiss as an old wives' tale, but it’s a quick fix that actually works!

Bring On The Oil Jojoba oil is a fantastic moisturizing product that works for both skin and hair to combat winter dryness. Since your sebaceous glands produce less oil during the winter, incorporating a dime-sized amount of jojoba oil into your hair regimen is a great way to supplement moisture in your skin and hair. To keep hair controlled, simply apply it from the mid-shaft to the ends. Using a small amount will actually revive strands, keeping them sleek and static-free.

Before the cold weather turns your hair into an unattractive mess, commit these tips to memory. You'll walk around all day with a head of hair that looks just like it did when you left the house.