Winter Curls: How to Keep Your Curls Healthy during the season

Winter in the Okanagan is stunning, but your curls might not agree. Between the extremely dry air, cold temperatures, and hard mineral-rich water, curls can become dehydrated, dull, and frizzy faster than in other climates. 

The good news? With a little extra care and a winter-specific routine, your curls can stay soft, bouncy, and beautifully hydrated all season long. 

Replenish Moisture at Every Step

The Okanagan’s winter air has very low humidity, meaning moisture evaporates from your curls quickly. 

Choose a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. Use conditioners rich in aloe for example, or humectants (like glycerin). Apply a leave-in conditioner every wash day to create a moisture base that lasts. 

Treat Your Hair Weekly, Especially Because of Hard Water

Hard water is full of minerals like calcium and magnesium that stick to the hair shaft, making curls feel dry, dull, and coated. In winter, the problem doubles. 

A weekly deep conditioner to restore softness and elasticity. 

A monthly clarifying treatment or hard-water removal treatment to break down mineral buildup. 

If possible, use a shower filter, it can make a huge difference in moisture retention. 

It’s okay to Layer Moisture

In a dry climate, moisture needs reinforcement. Layering products creates a protective “cocoon” around each curl. 

Try this order: 

Leave-in conditioner, lightweight curl cream, gel or foam.

This prevents winter air from pulling water out of your curls too quickly. If your hair is fine/low density, you can skip the curl cream and make sure to get a creamy leave in conditioner.

Humidity Boost Inside Your Home 

Indoor heating in the Okanagan is extremely drying for both your skin and your curls. 

Add moisture back into the air!! Run a humidifier at night or around the house, your curls and your skin will drink it up. 

Sleep with a satin or silk bonnet/pillowcase to reduce friction and breakage. 

Protect Your Curls Outside 

Cold wind can cause cuticle roughness and breakage. 

Wear satin-lined beanies to shield your curls from friction. 

For very cold days, add a little extra curl cream to refresh, if you need to, before heading out. 

Use protective styles like low buns, twists, or braids to keep ends safe if you are spending a long time outside skiing,  playing with the snow.

Don’t Neglect Your Scalp 

Dry climate = dry scalp. 

Keep your scalp happy: Use hydrating shampoos that don’t strip oils. Try gentle scalp massages when washing your hair and conditioning to soothe dryness. 

Trim Winter Breakage Early 

Harsh weather + hard water can make split ends show up faster. Getting a light trim keeps curls healthy, defined, and prevents dry ends from creeping upward. 

The Okanagan winter can be tough on curls, dry air, cold winds, and mineral-heavy water all play a role. But with the right routine, your curls can stay moisturized, hydrated, and beautifully defined all season long. 

Focus on moisture-rich products, buildup removal, scalp care, and protection from the elements, and your curls will thrive, even in the driest months. 

If you have any questions, comment below. Also, you can email me at curlsbyaris@hotmail.com or follow me on Instagram @curlsbyaris