Winter Hair Rituals for Mountain Living
preventative measures to keep your skin & hair healthy in ski season
Between freezing temperatures, constant friction from toques and helmets, and long days on the hill, hair is made to endure a lot. Add wind, sweat, and repeated temperature changes—from chairlift to lodge to car—and it’s no surprise winter is when many of us notice breakage, dullness, or scalp discomfort.
Care in winter starts with understanding the cause and effect, and a simple routine to be proactive.
Hats, Helmets, and Friction
Ski helmets and toques or winter hats create consistent pressure and friction at the hairline, nape, and crown. Over time, this can lead to breakage, static, and flattened shape.
Care practices we recommend:
Start with smooth, hydrated hair—dry hair can be brittle and tends to break more easily under friction
Use a leave-in conditioning product before heading out to reduce static and abrasion. Ask your stylist to recommend the perfect one for your hair type & needs
Opt for loose braids or low buns rather than tight ponytails
Silk or satin-lined hats make a noticeable difference if these are available to you
Cold Air and Moisture Loss
Cold outdoor air combined with indoor heating strips moisture from hair, skin and scalp. This often shows up as dullness, flyaways, itchiness, or flakes.
Support moisture by:
Switching to a hydrating shampoo and conditioner during winter
Speak to one of our skin care specialists to see if a cream based cleanser is a good option for your skin during these months
Reducing overwashing, especially after ski days. Opt for a co-wash or just use a scalp brush to give your scalp some love in-between washes
Incorporating a weekly hydration mask (hair & skin) or bond-supporting treatment (hair)
Applying scalp, skin & hair care intentionally to meet your needs
Sweat + Cold = Scalp & Skin Imbalance
Skiing and snowboarding mean sweat, even in freezing temperatures. When sweat dries quickly under a helmet, it can disrupt the scalp’s balance.
A balanced approach includes:
Gentle cleansing after heavy activity days
Avoiding harsh clarifying products too frequently
Supporting the skin and scalp barriers with calming, nourishing formulas. Scalp products are so advanced now and there is no one size fits all. Talk with your stylist if you have any concerns so you can receive a customized recommendation
Always remember that sunscreen
Winter Care Is About Longevity
Winter hair care isn’t about perfection—it’s about preserving integrity so hair emerges healthy in spring. Thoughtful routines, small adjustments, and strategic in-salon treatments make a meaningful difference.
If you ski, ride, tour, or spend long days outside, your hair needs care that works as hard as you do.
