Combat hair’s seasonal static and lack of volume with the right conditioner

We often focus on the dehydrated, chapped or ashy effects cold winters have on our skin, shrugging off the equally prominent side effects our hair suffers as an unavoidable evil. But locks don’t necessarily have to be flat and full of static. As Michael Forrey, creative director for Sassoon Salon New York Downtown, offers, “if you have the knowledge, tools and a great haircut, anyone can keep their hair looking great, no matter the season.” Because the winter air is dry, hair becomes parched as well. And then indoor heating further zaps any remaining moisture.

But dry hair—like dry skin—isn’t the only complaint come snowfall; breakage and split ends are caused by brittle, thirsty hair, and of course, there’s static (a critical threat to those with finely textured hair) and frizz to deal with. One of Forrey’s lifesavers is conditioning treatments, either in the salon or at home. “One of my favorite in-salon options is the Kerastase range—customized for specific hair types and prescribed according to what your hair is lacking—which can then be complemented by their at-home conditioning masques, such as the Chroma Reflect Masque.”

Fighting static comes down to “using the right products that maintain moisture in the hair,” says Forrey. And while one definitely shouldn’t venture outdoors with wet locks, winter is a great time to take a break from daily blowouts. He strongly suggests using a thermal heat protectant when blow-drying (like Kerastase Nectar Thermique or Sebastian Taming Elixir), “as this type of product will not only moisturize hair, but keep it shiny.” For curly tresses, try Sebastian Whipped Crème and the leave-in Kerastase Crème Oleo-Curl conditioner.

But there’s still lack of volume to contend with, which Forrey suggests combating with the help of lines such as Kerastase Volumactive. And when styling in frigid temperatures, Forrey turns to Davines Melu Serum Mellow Split Ends Repairing Sealing Serum, since it adds nutrients and moisture and is suitable to any hair type. The four steps to perfectly healthy winter hair, says Forrey, are regular haircuts, shampoo and conditioners tailored to hair type, in-salon and at-home conditioning, and ultra-moisturizing, protective products. After all, “products are your best friends during these winter months.”