Treat Your Tresses

Southern Living, Jan 2008 by Barnes, Allison

Make your mane the main attraction this season.

When it comes to keeping your locks in great shape during cold weather, there are some basic practices that will help combat the effects of Old Man Winter. Here are our favorites.

Grand Strands

A lack of nutrients in your diet or other health issues can result in tiredlooking tresses. Although there are no quick fixes for lasting effects, adding B vitamins (such as B-12) and 50 grams per day of protein (including nuts, cheese, and meats) to your diet can slowly but surely fortify your follicles.

Be Fair to Your Hair

Common winter woes are static and dryness, which can cause split ends and breakage. Deep-condition once a week to strengthen your hair's overall resilience. Make sure your hair is completely dry before going into cold temperatures and harsh winds. -ALLISON BARNES

A Hairy Tale

Flat irons, curling irons, straightening combs, coloring, and perms can take a toll. Keep your hair happy with these tips from Zoe Draelos, MD, a member of our Healthy Living Editorial Advisory Board.

* Panthenol is a key conditioner. It absorbs water and helps moisturize dry hair. Try Kiehl's Leave-In Hair Conditioner with Panthenol and Coconut oil ($17, www. kiehls.com).

* During winter months, reduce the number of times you wash your hair each week, unless you work in a dirty environment or if oil production is abundant. Try two to three times per week for Caucasian hair, four to five times per week for Asian hair, and once a week for African American hair.

* For African American hair, try moisturizers containing dimethicone, a silicone oil. It is lighter than the vegetable oils sometimes used and makes hair smooth and shiny.

* Quaternary conditioning agents, such as those in two-in-one shampoos and conditioners, neutralize the negative charge in hair shafts, smooth cuticles, and decrease static electricity.

healthy benefits

* Taking care of your locks now is an excellent investment in the future because hair grows more slowly during the winter months than during summer.

* Healthy-looking hair improves your presentation in social, cultural, and religious settings. It's also a great boost to self-esteem.