[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Sweater weather is here, and boot season is just around the corner. A change in seasons should mean more than just a wardrobe transition, though. The end of summer and the start of cooler weather can leave your hair feeling dry, brittle and needing extra TLC.
Additionally, the end of summer and the beginning of fall tends to be the period that people lose more hair than usual. While experts say that
hair shedding is normal and part of our natural hair growth and hair loss cycle, it can still be upsetting to comb out a big clump in the morning. Don't panic, though. The hair you lose in October and November will return to keep you warm in the winter – and there are ways to combat losing too much hair in the fall.
Changing up your hair care routine as summer wanes can help you tackle hair dryness, loss and breakage. We spoke to Erik Emblem, owner and lead stylist at
Devana Salon in Denver, CO, for easy-to-follow tips for fall hair care that will leave you with lustrous, healthy and shiny locks.
The best autumn hair care practices
Shampoo less
During the summer, you were probably washing your hair often due to sweat, pool chlorine and outdoor activities. In the fall, Emblem says, you should reduce the frequency because washing your hair too often can strip away its natural oils. He recommends cutting back to washing your hair every two to three days or as needed to let your hair's natural oils moisturize your scalp. He recommends using
sulfate-free products to further prevent dryness since synthetic ingredients can strip hair of its body and moisture.
Moisturize more
As we move into fall, it's all about hydration. Cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels can lead to dryness and frizz. To combat this, you should switch to a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner if you're not using those already. Look for products that contain ingredients like
argan oil, shea butter or hyaluronic acid, which can help lock in moisture and keep your hair soft and smooth. Adding a weekly
deep conditioning moisture mask to your hair care routine is also a good idea.
Color and cut
If you truly had a good summer, your hair might be lighter from spending time outdoors in the sun – or highlighted from the salon for a "natural" summer look. Most likely, the hot sun and bleached hair also mean more split ends. So, as you ease into Autumn, make an appointment at your regular hair salon for a trim and, if necessary, a warmer, darker hair color: think caramel or reddish-brown. Or,
color it at home with a rich, chestnut-like color.
Scalp care
In addition to tending to your tress's split ends you should also care for your scalp. To prevent hair loss, gently massage your scalp with
coconut oil warmed between your hands to stimulate circulation and blood flow. Also, be sure to cleanse your scalp of product buildup so you're not clogging your hair follicles with a
clarifying shampoo or rinsing your hair with apple cider vinegar.
Steam clean
Another way to add moisture to your hair is to steam it. Emblem recommends simply running your sink water until it gets very hot, sticking your head over the sink, and then covering your upper body with a towel to lock in the steam. You can also enjoy spending time in a steam room or a nice hot, steamy shower for a similar effect.
Braid, don't tie
If your go-to hairstyle was a ponytail this summer, it's time to retire or your scrunchy or hair tie, or give them a rest. Pulling hair back can lead to hair breakage and scalp stress. If you want to keep your hair out of your face, change your hairstyle with braids!
Protect your hair from the heat
It's time to give your hair a break from daily heat styling. Try to cut back on blowouts, flat ironing, and curling wands during the cooler, dry months to prevent further drying out and damaging your hair, counsels Emblem. And, when you do need to apply some heat to your locks, be sure to use a heat protectant product first and dial down the heat seating to low instead of high.
Healthy diet and supplements
Remember that the health of your hair starts from the inside. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can contribute to your hair's overall strength and shine. Consider taking supplements like
biotin or omega-3 fatty acids to promote hair growth and health.
Transitioning your hair care routine from summer to fall doesn't have to be complicated. By focusing on hydration, protecting your hair from the elements, and making a few simple adjustments, you can keep your locks looking their best throughout the season. With these tips, you'll be ready to embrace the fall with healthy, beautiful hair.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator title="Featured Products" border_width="2"][vc_row_inner equal_height="yes" content_placement="middle" gap="35"][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="169129" img_size="full" alignment="center" onclick="custom_link" img_link_target="_blank" css=".vc_custom_1696267200520{padding-right: 7% !important;padding-left: 7% !important;}" link="https://www.vitacost.com/rainbow-research-henna-hair-color-and-conditioner-copper-red-copper"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="169128" img_size="full" alignment="center" onclick="custom_link" img_link_target="_blank" css=".vc_custom_1696267216889{padding-right: 7% !important;padding-left: 7% !important;}" link="https://www.vitacost.com/derma-e-styling-hair-repair-oil"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="169127" img_size="full" alignment="center" onclick="custom_link" img_link_target="_blank" css=".vc_custom_1696267232757{padding-right: 7% !important;padding-left: 7% !important;}" link="https://www.vitacost.com/giovanni-smoothing-castor-oil-leave-in-conditioner"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
