Protecting Your Hair From Winter Damage

Written By: Samantha K. Paris

As the temperatures drop and the air gets drier, our skin isn't the only thing that needs a little extra love -- your hair does too! Winter air, indoor heat, and cozy hats can all leave your hair feeling dry, dull, and fragile. At Storybook Salon, we're all about keeping your hair healthy and beautiful through every season, and we've got your winter hair survival guide right here.

1. Strengthen from the Inside Out

Cold weather can make hair more prone to breakage, so this is the perfect time to focus on bond repair. In the salon, we use Redken’s Acidic Bonding Concentrate Salon Professional Treatment line to help rebuild and protect weakened bonds caused by color, heat, or environmental stress. It’s a must for keeping hair strong and resilient through winter’s ups and downs.

At home, follow up with the Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Shampoo, Conditioner, and Leave-In — this trio delivers deep repair, softness, and shine while protecting color and preventing future damage.

We also love K18, which works on a molecular level to repair keratin chains in the hair. Just one treatment can make damaged or brittle hair feel brand new again — and it continues to improve with regular use.

2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Dry air = thirsty hair. Swap out lightweight products for richer, more nourishing formulas. The Amika Hydro Rush line is a winter hero that adds deep moisture without weighing your hair down.

Pro tip: Add a weekly mask like Amika’s Soulfood or Redken’s Acidic Bonding Concentrate Intensive Treatment to give your hair an extra moisture boost.

3. Protect Before You Style

Heat styling in winter can double down on damage, so always apply a heat protectant before blow-drying or using hot tools. We carry several favorites, including:

    •    Redken Acidic Bonding Leave-In – strengthens while protecting up to 450°F.

    •    Amika Blockade Heat Defense Serum – adds shine and smoothness.

    •    Kenra Blow-Dry Spray – cuts drying time and guards against heat.

    •    Moroccanoil Perfect Defense – lightweight mist that won’t leave residue.

Even if you’re just touching up your curls or smoothing frizz, a quick mist goes a long way toward preserving your hair’s health.

4. Choose the Right Brush

Your brush matters! In winter, hair is more delicate — so skip anything that tugs or snags. We recommend:

    •    A boar bristle or mixed bristle brush for distributing natural oils and adding shine.

    •    A wet brush or detangling brush when hair is damp to prevent breakage.

    •    And always start brushing from the ends, working up to the roots.

5. Small Habits = Big Results

    •    Avoid washing too often — overwashing strips away essential oils that keep hair protected.

    •    Turn down the water temperature — hot showers may feel amazing but can dehydrate hair and scalp.

    •    Sleep on a silk pillowcase or with silk blowout rods or bonnets — it helps prevent frizz and breakage.

    •    Get regular trims — split ends can travel up the hair shaft if left unchecked.

6. Treat Yourself to a Professional Treatment

Sometimes your hair just needs a little salon TLC. Our bonding treatments, glosses, and deep conditioners can bring dry, brittle strands back to life. Ask your stylist at your next appointment which in-salon treatment is right for your hair type — whether it’s Redken’s Acidic Bonding Concentrate, K18, or a custom moisture mask.

This winter, don’t let the weather dull your shine. With the right products, treatments, and a few simple habits, you can keep your hair healthy, soft, and strong all season long.