True/false: the effects of cold weather on your hair

Hair that is greasier due to the cold, a hairdryer boycott and more damage-prone locks than in summer... We've sorted the truth from the lies to show you how to take care of your locks this winter.

Hair is more damage-prone in winter: True and False!

This is true, as the onset of cold weather subjects hair to damaging factors such as rapid changes in temperature, a lack of humidity in the air (which dries out the hair fibre) and your hair rubbing against your clothes. Yet, it is not true that the hair is more damage-prone during this period. In summer, prolonged exposure to the sun or sea air dries out and weakens your hair just as much.

Hair can be greasier due to the cold: True

If you often wear a hat, that is. Covering your head stops your roots from breathing and your scalp sweats more, stimulating sebum production. Hence your hair can be greasy by the end of the day. Instead of always wearing a hat, swap it for a stylish turban from time to time.

You should cut down on how often you wash your hair: False

Neither in winter nor summer should you change how often you wash your hair. This routine is essential for cleansing it of impurities such as build-up from styling products, dust and excess sebum. Opt for a gentle formulation and finish by applying a mask suited to your hair type.

Using a hairdryer in winter not recommended: True and False

The heat from a heated appliance combined with the cold temperatures outside can bring about a rapid change in temperature which will weaken your hair. However, you can get around this problem by turning down the temperature setting on your straighteners, curling tongs or hairdryer. Besides applying a thermo-protective serum beforehand, drying your hair on a cool or gently warm setting reduces the risk of a rapid change in temperature. But be aware that going out with wet hair is really not recommended, as it may break the hair fibre.

Hair can freeze: True

Subject to extreme temperatures, your locks can actually freeze... If they are wet and left to air dry. A phenomenon tested by some of the inhabitants of Whitehorse (a city in north-western Canada) who swim in water between 36 and 42°C every year and leave their hair to dry in the fresh air... Below are the winners of the Hair Freezing Contest 2015.