Winters call for BBQ bonfire nights, moisturising face masks, candle-lit dinners, and warm, cozy sweaters. Everything sounds nice and fun till you are standing in front of your mirror, trying to frame your hair around your face and you notice small, white chunks in your hair and on your shoulders. Is that...dandruff? 

Dandruff is a particularly annoying problem that most people face all-year-round, but especially in winters. The cold, dry air zaps moisture from the skin, hair, and scalp, increasing itchiness and irritation. If not treated in time, dandruff can also lead to blocked follicles and increased hair fall. 

What is Dry Scalp?

Dry scalp is a condition that many face during the winters. If you notice small, white flakes in your hair, usually when it gets cold, you might be dealing with dandruff issues. A dry scalp can also be a result of excessive dry heat or bad diet. You might feel some sort of tightness or itchiness in the scalp that doesn't seem to go away. Unmanageable hair, a brittle crown, and flaky scalp become the norm.

 Sometimes, you will notice flakes of dead skin on your shoulders, pillows, and blankets. Dandruff and dry scalp problems can result in lifeless, frizzy hair that breaks easily. If left untreated, you may also start to lose hair. 

• Pre-Wash Hair Treatments

Before you deal with dandruff and jump into the shower, the most important thing to do is properly prep your scalp and hair. Here are two of the best ways to do this:

• Scalp Massage

Before you wash your hair, it is important to prep it, especially in the winters. With the cold winter air raising goosebumps on your arms and chilling your bones, what better time is there to get a hot oil scalp massage? 

Instead of opting for expensive oils that often don't do much for your hair, simply use 100% pure olive oil, coconut oil, or almond oil. Make sure to warm the oil up in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to burn yourself! Start by massaging the warm oil into your scalp with your finger pads. Be gentle. Not only will this moisturise the scalp and keep dryness and flakiness at bay, it will also increase blood circulation and stimulate the follicles, leading to hair growth. 

Hair Masks

Hair masks are one of the hottest trends in the beauty industry right now. However, ALWAYS read the labels and make sure that you know the ingredients used to formulate any product that you buy.

Since the cold can suck moisture out of the hair, it is important to hydrate. Did you know that some DIY hair masks work better than store-bought ones? For a super-quick hair mask, take one egg yolk and mix it with a cup of honey. Throw in some overripe bananas and mash them in the mixture. Make sure that you are left with a smooth paste. Use your hands to massage the hair mask onto your hair. Cover your head with a heat cap for 30-minutes. Follow up with your regular shower routine. 

Get Rid of Dandruff for Good

Are you sick of avoiding dark colored sweaters and hoodies because of the mess that the dandruff leaves behind? Don't worry; it is time to say goodbye to all your dandruff problems. Below are a few tips and tricks that you can follow:

1. Go for a Trim

Getting a trim once in a while is essential for hair growth, even if you are trying to keep your hair long. Split ends leave hair dry and unmanageable, making them difficult to style. What's worse is that the hair follicles tend to become even more stubborn during the winter. Dry, cold air makes the hair brittle, leading to excess breakage and frizz. Trimming your hair every four to six months will keep them healthy and beautiful. 

2. Cut Down on Shampooing

We get it- saying no to the steaming, hot water in your shower is difficult. However, that does not mean you need to shampoo your hair each time you pop into the shower. In fact, boiling hot water is terrible for your skin, especially your scalp. Wondering why? Hot water makes your hair more prone to dandruff as it causes it to flake, making your hair dry and brittle. Moreover, getting rid of the oils produced by your hair naturally will only leave it dry and unmanageable. 

3. Cover Your Crown

Have you noticed breakage in specific areas of the hair? Your hair care routine may not be to blame. While woollen caps and scarves are a necessity and quite frankly, really sweet accessories in the winter, they rub against the hair, especially pulling on delicate hair at the crown of the head or on the nape of the neck. To avoid breakage, all you need to do is sew a silk lining on the inside of your cap. Not only can a cap or scarf protect your hair from the dry weather, it can also help stretch your wash days! 

4. Never Skip the Conditioner

Conditioning your hair is as important as shampooing. While shampoo loosens the gunk on the scalp, conditioner helps clean the length of the hair while moisturising it and preventing tangles. Conditioning your hair regularly after each wash helps increase elasticity, strength, and shine. Those who have curly hair can also opt to leave-in some conditioner to replenish their curls so that the dry air does not suck out all the moisture. Always use a sealant after your shower to lock in all the moisture. 

5. Fight Static

Hair static has to be one of the most annoying things that you have to deal with in the winters. The good news is that it is avoidable. Simply ditch the brush that has plastic bristles with one that is completely natural. It is even better if you use a wooden tooth comb through your hair, especially when it is wet. If you are looking for a quick-fix, get a sheet of fabric softener and run it through your hair. Problem solved! 

Remember, hydration is key to a dandruff-free winter. What are you waiting for? Go warm up some oil for that wonderful scalp massage!