How to Make Dull Winter Hair Shiny Again

The cute coats and cold weather accessories are fun, but have you ever noticed that once winter’s chill creeps in your hair is suddenly flat and lifeless? It’s par for the frigid course, but we’re here to tell you that you don’t have to forfeit your shiny strands until spring. We asked celebrity stylists why hair is notoriously dull in the colder months—seriously, what gives?—and for an escape plan that actually works. Turns out it’s not so hard to revive dull winter hair after all. 

Why Is Hair Dull in Winter? 

Dull winter hair is caused by a combination of factors all conspiring against your ability to achieve shiny hair. 

“First, cold weather can strip moisture from both the hair and scalp, leaving hair dry and brittle,” explains Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermatology Circle Clinic in New York City. “Another factor is the use of heating devices that can dry hair. Additionally, scalp conditions such as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis can worsen in winter, causing the hair to appear unhealthy.” 

Some additional subtle causes of dull winter hair is showering more frequently (we know, the hot water feels *so good*), hats that create friction and frizz, and environmental pollutants that tend to hover lower in the air due to temperature inversions. 

How to Revive Dull Winter Hair 

Winter is notoriously rough on your hair, but with the right care you can revive your strands and keep them looking healthy all season long. From switching to hydrating products to giving your scalp some TLC, follow these expert-proven tips to bring your hair back to life during the colder months. 

Switch to a Hydrating and Conditioning Regimen 

You switch up your skin care routine in the winter, and it makes sense to do the same for your hair. This looks like switching to a hydrating shampoo and conditioner, working in a deep conditioning treatment, and using nourishing styling products that promote hydration and shine. 

“A good moisturizing shampoo and conditioner can make a significant difference. I also recommend incorporating a weekly hair mask or oil treatment to deeply nourish the hair and smooth the cuticle, which helps lock in moisture and boost shine,” advises Ross Kopelman, MD, a hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration. 

Nurture Your Scalp

Along with nourishing your strands with more hydrating and conditioning ingredients, make sure to give your scalp some TLC, too. Using a gentle scrub can help remove product buildup and exfoliate dead skin cells that may clog hair follicles, which affects the scalp’s ability to maintain a healthy oil balance. This also enhances the absorption of any treatments or oils you apply. A well-maintained scalp is the literal foundation for strong, shiny, and healthy hair in winter. 

Reduce Your Washing Frequency 

Depending on your hair type and local climate, you may not need to wash your hair as frequently in winter. “With less oil and sweat production during the winter months typically, as well as with the drier conditions, you may find that you do not need to shampoo and wash your hair and scalp as frequently as you might in the more humid summer months,” explains Christina Han, MD, FRCPC, a board certified dermatologist at XYON Health.

Don’t Go Outside with Wet Hair 

You can get away with leaving the house with damp hair in the warmer months, but this is a no-go in winter. Dr. Kazlouskaya says that this can cause your hair to literally break off or cause significant damage. When water in the hair freezes in cold temperatures, it expands, causing the hair strands to become brittle and more prone to breakage. This weakens the hair structure and can increase frizz. 

Be Mindful of Friction

Those cute winter hats just might be taking a toll on your hair health. “One thing people often overlook is how much friction can damage the hair,” Dr. Kopelman says. “I advise switching from wool hats to ones lined with silk or satin to help minimize breakage and static. It’s such a small change but makes a big difference.” You can also sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction while you sleep.