Seasonal Hair Care: Adjusting Your Routine for Summer and Winter

When the seasons change, so should your hair care routine. Just like you swap out your wardrobe when it gets hot or cold, your hair needs different kinds of TLC depending on the time of year. Whether you’re battling summer frizz or winter dryness, adjusting your routine can make the difference between dull locks and vibrant, healthy hair.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the best hair care strategies for Portsmouth’s warmer and colder months—and why the shift matters.

Why Seasons Affect Your Hair

Think of your hair as an extension of your skin. It reacts to heat, cold, moisture, and dryness just the same.

• In summer, UV rays, salty air, chlorine, and sweat strip away moisture and leave hair dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
• In winter, cold winds and indoor heating cause dehydration, static, and dullness, often making your scalp itchy or flaky.

Each season brings its own set of challenges—but luckily, there are easy ways to adapt.

Summer Hair Care Tips

Hydrate Like You Mean It:
Use a sulfate-free moisturizing shampoo and follow up with a deep conditioner once a week. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or shea butter to lock in hydration.

Protect from UV and Heat:
Wear a hat during peak sun hours or use a UV-protectant spray. If you're styling with heat tools, a thermal protectant is a must to prevent damage.

Rinse After Swimming:
Saltwater and chlorine are harsh on hair. Rinse with clean water immediately after swimming and use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove buildup.

Tame the Frizz:
Humidity can turn smooth hair into a puffball. A lightweight leave-in conditioner or anti-frizz serum can help you keep control without weighing your hair down.

Winter Hair Care Tips

Switch to Heavier Products:
Trade your light summer formulas for richer creams and oils. Look for argan oil, jojoba oil, or keratin-based treatments to nourish dry strands.

Avoid Overwashing:
Shampooing too often in winter strips your scalp of natural oils. Try washing every 2-3 days and opt for dry shampoo in between if needed.

Keep the Heat Low:
It’s tempting to take hot showers and blast the blow dryer—but both can zap moisture from your hair. Use lukewarm water and lower the temperature on your heat tools.



Combat Static:
Add a leave-in conditioner or anti-static spray to your routine. Sleeping on a satin pillowcase can also help reduce frizz and breakage.

A Local Touch: Get Expert Help in Portsmouth

No matter the season, sometimes your hair just needs a professional refresh. Portsmouth locals looking for personalized care can search for a “mobile stylist near me” or book an appointment with trusted studios like Redhead Studio, known for its customized salon services that help clients transition beautifully through the seasons.

A skilled stylist can trim away summer damage, suggest products suited for your hair type, and even offer protective styles for colder months. Whether you're prepping for beach season or braving chilly winds, having a local pro in your corner makes all the difference.

Case Study: From Frizz to Fabulous

One Portsmouth resident, Amanda T., struggled with year-round hair issues—dryness in the winter, frizz in the summer. After a visit to Redhead Studio and following a stylist-recommended seasonal routine, her hair transformed. “My hair used to be a constant battle,” she said. “Now it actually listens to me. I get compliments all the time!”

Wrap-Up: Your Hair Deserves a Seasonal Check-In

Your hair faces a lot throughout the year. By adjusting your routine with each season, you give it the tools to thrive—not just survive.

Here’s what to do next:

• Check your current products—are they right for the season?
• Schedule a seasonal trim and style consultation with a trusted hair stylist.
• Make hydration your hair’s best friend, year-round.

Your hair goes through the seasons, too—don’t leave it out in the cold.