Autumn & Winter Hair Care Advice

As we wave goodbye to summer and autumn sets in, the hair and scalp are commonly impacted by the transition to colder, harsher weather.

EarthKind caught up with the UK's leading Trichologist, Eva Proudman FIT IAT, who explains some common conditions and her top tips to help look after the hair and scalp during winter. 


Long summer hair.

It's common for summer hair to become dry or damaged. Exposure to excessive environmental oxidative stress from UVR and chemical pollutants, such as chlorine in swimming pools, can impact the health and appearance of the hair.

For those with long hair, it's a good idea to have a trim to remove any leftover damage from the ends of the hair and prepare for the harsher winter weather. Use a high-quality, antioxidant-rich conditioner, such as the EarthKind Organic Oats conditioning bar, every time you wash your hair.


Dry, brittle, or frizzy hair.

The cooler winter air tends to be less humid, while harsher, windier conditions also impact the hair, leaving it more prone to becoming dry, brittle and prone to breakage. Central heating systems also reduce moisture in the air and can promote the conditions for a build-up of static electricity and frizzy hair.

Protect your hair from harsh conditions with a hat or other head coverings. Remember to use hydrating hair products such as the Elasticity Pre-Wash Treatment Bar to help keep hair fibres nourished and in good condition.


Coloured hair.

Coloured hair is always at risk of becoming dry from the chemical process of colouring. It's even more at risk during winter for the reasons above. Less sunlight can also mean lighter colours tend to fade a little quicker. 

Use nourishing shampoos, conditioners and hair treatments to maintain moisture content within the hair. EarthKind's Bergamot & Sage shampoo bar was specifically formulated for dry, damaged, or coloured hair.


Scalp health.

The winter conditions that impact our hair can also wreak havoc on the scalp, exacerbating dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and other conditions. Drier and cooler air can also make these conditions feel more uncomfortable. And while we recommend covering the hair for protection - hats and other coverings can also leave the scalp needing more attention than usual.

Washing the scalp more regularly is advised if your scalp is suffering. The Citrus Leaf bar is ideal as a safe, cleansing, frequent-use shampoo bar. For more severe conditions, my go-to trichological recommendation is always the Tony Maleedy Juniper Scalp Therapy Shampoo - a premium scalp-cleansing shampoo that balances the scalp's microbiome. 


Hair shedding.

Many notice increased hair shedding from September through to the end of November. This isn't usually hair loss - it is due to the raised levels of Vitamin D keeping more of our hair in the growing phase during the summer months. As this drops with less sunlight, the hair cycle balance returns with more shedding from September to November. 

Vitamin D supplements can help, or even better, try some specialised hair supplements to give your body everything it needs for healthy hair.


Are you worried about your hair, shedding, hair loss, or a scalp condition? Consultations with Eva Proudman are available from her clinical practice - https://www.ukhairconsultants.com/