5 Ways to Winterize Your Running Hair Routine

By Jasmine Nesi, Co-founder and COO, RUNGRL

If you live in an area with harsh winter weather, you’re no stranger to the very real effect that snow, ice, harsh winds and a decreased about of sun and humidity can have on your hair. Cooler and drier weather can do a number on your hair’s luster, its bounce back and overall “act right”.

As an active runner and group fitness instructor, RUNGRL co-founder Jasmine keeps moisture a priority for her hair, even when sporting a protective style. Photo: Jasmine Nesi

But that doesn’t mean you have to avoid running in winter weather. A little cold weather doesn’t stop the running show and neither should your hair. It simply means you should be prepared to care for it a bit differently; show it some extra love. Here are five ways to take your winter hair routine up a notch.

Wash hair less often in winter.

When the air is dry and hair is more fragile, it’s even more important to space out your washes. Sweat already dries out your hair, so you don’t want to overwash on top of that. Minimize shampoo to once a week at most for natural girls and be sure to use a sulfate-free shampoo. Use tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar to refresh the hair between washes. Don’t forget to deep condition once a week as well. If your hair is very dry, try cutting shampoos back to twice monthly, with co-washing in between.

MOISTURE. MOISTURE. MOISTURE.

During the winter, I go heavy on the creams, as opposed to the gels and serums that I use more often in warmer weather. I also leave my conditioner in after the wash (no rinsing!). Look for hydrating ingredients in all hair products or as an add-in to your overall routine. I love Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask and TGIN Miracle Repairx Protective Leave-In Conditioner for my conditioners and Jane Carter Solutions Curl Defining Cream for good definition.

Argan oil, vitamin E, Aloe, shea butter and, my personal fave, jojoba oil, all help top replenish thirsty hair as well.

Scalp care is LIFE.

Dry scalp and dandruff problems? Winter dryness can make it even worse. Naturallycurly.com recommends blending jojoba and tea tree oil in equal parts to treat dry scalp: “Mix a quarter to half dollar-sized amount of jojoba oil into your palms with 2 drops of tea tree oil. Spread evenly between your palms and then massage into the scalp.” Try this before your next shampoo or as an overnight treatment before cleansing to keep dry scalp at bay.

Winterize your running hair accessories.

On your next run, use hair wraps, headbands, or scarves to protect against the elements and preserve your ‘do. Be picky about your hair ties and headbands. Your hair is more susceptible to breakage in the drier weather. Whether you want to hold your edges in place or preserve a full press, these accessories can help:

Grace Eleyae Satin-lined caps protect hair from the elements without the abrasiveness of cotton or wool, which can contribute to hair breakage.

GymWrap by Nicole Ari Parker has long been an active-girl favorite.

BunzeeBands Adjustable Length Hairbands work great for controlling natural hair and styling your poof.

Swirly Curly Scrunchies hold even the thickest hair with satin-covered protection.

Have a go-to “bad hair day” look.

For most women, Wash-and-Go styles are a “no go” in the winter. You can’t leave the house or gym with damp hair when it’s 30 degrees out. That’s why having a go-to, quick-saver hairdo is a must for those days when hair isn’t acting right or it’s worn out from running and sweat. Whether it’s a bun, braids, a pineapple or a pony, having a go-to style will save you the stress of feeling like you have to do a full hair session after every run or workout. Just be sure not to keep your hair in the same bun, puff or top knot for too long to avoid hair loss or breakage.

Now that you’ve got the tools, don’t let your hair (or the weather) stop you from getting your fitness on. Have some winter running haircare tips of your own? Be sure to share them in the comments below!
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Note: Items in this post are based on the author’s own recommendations. Some links in this post are affiliate links and RUNGRL may receive compensation for your engagement with them. See full terms of use for details.