Winter is here, and if you’re like me, the thought of stepping outside with natural hair feels like a challenge. Dry, cold air outside and blasting heat indoors—it’s a recipe for thirsty, brittle curls. You might find yourself reaching for all the moisturizers, but by noon, it’s like your hair absorbed nothing at all. I’ve been there too, watching my hair break off as fast as it grows.

Last winter, though, I decided enough was enough. I tried some new techniques and trusted products, and the results amazed me. Not only did my curls stay hydrated, but I also saw real growth through the winter. Here’s the winter hair routine that saved my curls, so you can keep yours soft, moisturized, and growing strong too!

1. Deep Conditioning with Heat: The Winter Essential

2. Moisture Sandwiching

Forget the LOC method. Try the “Moisture Sandwich” instead. This involves layering products that hydrate and seal in moisture in a way that lasts. Start with a water-based leave-in conditioner, followed by a hydrating serum with glycerin or hyaluronic acid, and finish with a lightweight cream or oil. This method traps moisture more effectively and keeps your hair from drying out between wash days. I love Amika’s Hyaluronic Acid line and Mizani’s 23 Miracle Milk line for this technique.

3. Low-Manipulation and Protective Styling

Winter is the perfect time to go easy on your hair with low-manipulation styles. I like to stick with styles that last at least a week, like chunky twists, braids, or low buns. These styles reduce daily handling, which minimizes breakage. Protective styles also keep your ends tucked away from the cold, giving them a chance to grow without the risk of snapping or drying out. Use a lightweight cream like Mizani Miracle 23 Leave-In that adds hydration without weighing down your curls.

4. A Humidifier at Night (Game Changer!)

5. Hair Steamer for Intense Hydration

5. Switch to Silk or Satin Accessories

Wool hats and scarves look cute but can be brutal on curls, causing friction and breakage. Wearing a satin or silk scarf under your hat creates a barrier, letting your hair retain moisture and preventing breakage. Switching to a silk pillowcase is another great way to keep your hair from drying out as you sleep. My favorite silk pillow is a mulberry one get it HERE.

6. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Moisture starts from within! Drink plenty of water and aim to include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and biotin in your diet. These nutrients help your hair stay strong and hydrated from the inside out. I also recommend taking a daily supplement like Ritual Vitamins where you can customize the specific nutrients you want based on what your body needs if you feel like your diet might be lacking in certain essentials.

Final Thoughts

By adding these steps to your winter routine, you could see less dryness and more growth—even in the coldest months. Winter doesn’t have to be a season of brittle hair and breakage. With a little extra care, your curls can look and feel their best all season long. Let’s make this winter the year our curls flourish.

Stay warm and keep those curls thriving!