Winter Hair: How to Beat Dryness and Static

Sephora
Winter Hair: How to Beat Dryness and Static

WINTER HAIR: HOW TO BEAT DRYNESS AND STATIC

Is there anything worse than taking your woolly hat off after a long commute and finding your hair sticking up in every direction? From static and flyaways to ends that feel drier by the day, winter hair can be a lot to deal with.

But you don't need to hibernate until spring. Once you know what's causing it, it's much easier to manage, so here are our top fixes and products we're reaching for.

Why does my hair go static in winter?

Hair goes static when it’s colder because the air is dry, so the charge that builds up has nowhere to escape to. Hats, scarves and jumpers rubbing against it add to that charge, and because the strands all carry the same charge, they push away from each other.

It's actually the opposite of summer frizz. In summer, humid air makes hair swell, but in winter it's the dry air that causes the problem (for all your summer fixes, take a look at our guide to stop hair frizz in humid conditions).

Synthetic fabrics like acrylic and polyester make static worse too, so that cosy new scarf you’ve just picked up might be part of the problem. Don’t forget to check the fabric, as cute as your outfit might be!

Why is my hair dry in winter?

There are a few reasons your hair might feel a little drier in winter. First, the contrast between the outside air and warm air indoors can be felt not only by you but also by your hair. It pulls moisture from your lengths, leaving them feeling slightly brittle. And it’s not just the weather. During this season, you might also find yourself blow-drying more than usual (because who wants to leave the house with wet hair in December?), which can make your ends rougher. It could also be your choice of brush; make sure to swap plastic ones with a boar-bristle one. It’s much softer and kinder to your hair in the winter - your strands will thank us later.

Hair top tip: When you're buying a new hat, look for wool, cotton or cashmere, or one with a silk or satin lining. This will help to keep your hair looking smoother when you get home.

What is the best winter hair routine?

The best winter hair routine is all about keeping moisture in, which means washing less often, turning the water down and always using a heat protectant.

Two or three washes a week suits most hair during this time, as daily shampooing strips natural oils. Keep the water lukewarm (we know it’s so tempting to turn it up on a freezing morning before work), condition your mid-lengths and ends, and swap your conditioner for a mask once a week.

Once you're out of the shower, gently squeeze your hair with a microfibre towel instead of rubbing it, then mist on a leave-in and heat protectant. Dry on a medium heat with the hairdryer pointing down your hair, and finish with a few drops of oil on your ends.

What are the best products for winter hair?

The best winter hair products depend on what your hair needs most, whether that's extra hydration, calmer flyaways, heat protection or some much-needed TLC for your scalp. We’ve got the treatment to shower every hair type with love.

For dryness

GISOU Honey Gloss Ceramide Therapy Hair Mask: this is best for rough, thirsty lengths. With Mirsalehi Honey and Ceramides, this mask gives intense hydration, strength and glossy shine without weighing your hair down. Swap it in for your conditioner on a Sunday evening.

Or if your dry hair needs overnight care, then Kérastase Nutritive 8H Magic Night Serum is your new go-to. Smooth this serum onto dry or damp hair before bed and let it get to work while you sleep - dreamy. The finish is light and non-greasy, so you won’t get accidental oil on your pillow!

For static and flyaways

If your ends are looking slightly worse for wear, GISOU Honey Infused Hair Oil is a great and easy finishing touch. With Mirsalehi Honey, it helps to support frizz and bring back hydration. You only need a few drops through your ends after styling.

For flyaways that show up halfway through the day, Kérastase Elixir Ultime L'Huile Originale Hair Oil is one to keep in your bag. It can give up to four days of smoothing action and heat protection up to 230°C. With Camellia and Argan Oil, this hair oil is handy for a full day at the office.

Color Wow Money Mist has moisture and shine in one step. This leave-in conditioner strengthens and smoothes frizz. Mist it all over your clean, damp hair after washing. It’s all you need in one!

For damage and repair

Do you blow-dry or straighten your hair every day? The K18 Biomimetic Hairscience HeatBounce Conditioning Heat Protectant is ideal for you. This leave-in detangles, softens and shields hair up to 232°C. Brush it through towel-dried hair before styling, leaving a glazed shine.

How do I stop hat hair?

To stop hat hair, make sure your hair is completely dry before your hat goes on. Nobody wants flat or crumpled hair at an evening dinner, after you spent time styling it. But if it's too late and you were rushing for the train, the K18 AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray works on dry hair between washes. Spray it at the roots, give your hair a scrunch, and your volume is so back!

By Sephora UK Haircare Editorial Team

Writers and experts

Updated: 22 October 2026