Why Your Hair Feels Different in Winter (and What To Do About It)

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The moment winter settles in, our hair often reacts before we have a chance to. Maybe it feels a little drier, a little duller, harder to style—or maybe you’ve noticed more shedding than usual. If you’ve ever thought, “Why does my hair feel different?” during a cold snap, there’s good reason behind it. Icy air, indoor heating, and low humidity all work together to shift how your hair looks and feels.

So, it’s not just you: hair really does change in winter. Below, we’ll walk through why it happens, the signs to look for, and simple shifts that help keep your strands strong, smooth, and healthy all season long.

Here’s how winter affects your hair

Three key environmental factors team up in winter, and even if you don’t notice the shift right away, your hair certainly does. Around the ISDIN office, we hear the same stories every year: winter hair has a personality of its own.

1. Low humidity = dehydrated strands

Cold air simply doesn’t hold moisture well. As humidity drops, the cuticle (your hair’s protective outer layer) lifts slightly to compensate.

The result? More frizz, less shine, and a rougher feel. ISDIN Content Specialist Belinda Martinez notices it right away when styling: “Every winter, my hair gets frizzier and drier, even when I use the same products. It just feels like it’s losing moisture faster.”

This overall lack of humidity is what leads to increased frizz, less shine, and that brittle feeling so many of us recognize.

2. Indoor heating = scalp dryness

Upping the thermostat makes chilly days feel cozy—but your scalp may disagree. Warm, dry air pulls moisture from both your strands and your skin, which can throw your scalp’s natural oils off balance.

ISDIN Copywriting Specialist Mar Cinca feels the difference most during the workday: “With the heat on all day, my scalp gets oily so quickly. And by the end of the day, my hair feels like it’s lost all its volume.”

Itching, flaking, or a sudden shift in oil production (your scalp may actually overcompensate to combat dryness) are all normal winter reactions.

3. Cold air = harsh environment for hair

Moving between warm rooms and freezing outdoor temperatures causes the hair fiber to contract quickly. Meaning? Strands become more rigid, more fragile, and more prone to breakage.

ISDIN Design Specialist Esteban Eliceche notices it most during early-morning workouts: “When I head out in the freezing cold, my hair feels stiff. Then when I get home, I notice it breaks more easily.”

Add in wind, static, or thick winter scarves, and it all amounts to extra stress on your hair.

5 simple winter hair care tips

Now that we know what winter is up to, let’s help make your hair care routine work smarter, not harder. These simple, thoughtful shifts can help your strands stay nourished and resilient all season long.

1. Choose a scalp-friendly shampoo

A balanced scalp is the foundation of healthy-looking hair—and winter may change what your scalp needs.

• Dry or tight scalp? Choose a soothing, hydrating shampoo.
• Oily roots but dry ends? Try a balancing formula that refreshes without stripping.

Your scalp can shift seasonally, so adjusting your shampoo for the colder months can make all the difference.

Need help deciding? Browse our Scalp Care Guide.

2. Skip scalding showers (and don’t go out with wet hair)

A steamy shower may be tempting, but too hot water can leave the cuticle too open, allowing moisture to escape. Opt for warm (not piping hot) water, and try finishing with a quick cool rinse to help smooth and seal the fiber.

Something else to consider: Before heading outside (or to bed), make sure your hair is fully dry. If you use a blow dryer, apply a heat protectant, gently pat with a soft towel, and stick to medium heat.

3. Boost your routine with overnight repair

Long winter evenings set the scene for slow, intentional self-care routines—a perfect time for treatments that work while you rest. Overnight formulas help support the scalp during its natural renewal phase.

4. Take a break from heat tools and get creative with styling

Heat tools might be necessary in winter, but overdoing it can stress already vulnerable strands. Lean into effortless styles that don’t require any tools, such as:

• Simple braids
• Low buns
• Sleek ponytails
• Ribbon or robe-tie waves
• A classic fishtail braid (and the soft waves it leaves after)

They’re gentle, versatile, and help protect your hair throughout the season.

5. Add a hair supplement to your routine

If shedding feels more noticeable or your hair seems weaker than usual, supporting it internally may be the key.

Did you know? The causes of hair loss differ between men and women. Lambdapil Hair Density For Him is the ideal dietary supplement for men looking to improve the appearance of thinning hair.

Embrace the change

One last tip: A quick seasonal trim can do wonders. No need for a dramatic cut, just a light refresh to keep split ends from traveling upward. Healthy ends mean smoother hair and better results from every product in your haircare routine.

Winter may change how your hair responds to its surroundings, but a little extra care goes a long way. A few thoughtful adjustments, a little extra nourishment, and a targeted routine can help your hair look and feel its best until the sunshine returns.

And when spring arrives? Your strands will be more than ready.