The Dermatologist-Approved Winter Routine For Healthy Grey Hair

The silver crown is no longer an ageist marker, but has become an elegant trend in the beauty industry. Grey hair, whether a few strands or a full, shimmering mane, carries a quiet confidence. However, during winter, this naturally drier, pigment-less hair faces a formidable challenge from cold, dry air and harsh indoor heating.

According to experts, understanding the unique needs of your silver strands is the secret to maintaining their soft, vibrant sheen throughout the season. We consulted leading dermatologists, Dr Shifa Yadav, Consultant, Dermatology, Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram, Dr Rohit Kothari, Consultant Dermatologist at DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri, Pune, and Dr Sheena Kapoor, Consultant, Dermatology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Indore, to curate the definitive guide to take care of your grey hair during colder months.

Why Winter is the Enemy for Grey Hair

Grey hair lacks melanin—the pigment that provides colour and often, natural protection. This makes the strands inherently drier and coarser.

Dr Yadav notes that winter exacerbates this: "The cold and dry air takes moisture out of the hair and scalp. Winter makes grey hair even more brittle, frizzy, and rough." This lack of humidity weakens the hair shaft, increasing static, split ends, and damage.

Dr Kothari adds that the dry air and indoor heating can even cause a dull, yellowish tone in silver hair, requiring targeted care.

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The Winter Ritual For Healthy Grey Hair

To ensure your grey hair looks healthy and elegant, adopt this seven-step routine focused on intense hydration and protection:

1. Hydrate Deeply and Consistently

"To keep your hair from getting dry, use moisturising shampoos and conditioners that add moisture," advises Dr Yadav. Follow up with a weekly nourishing deep conditioning mask to replenish lost hydration.

2. Banish the Brass

Dr Kothari recommends incorporating a specific product to maintain colour purity: "Use a purple or blue toning shampoo 1-2 times a week to neutralise any yellow tones that can be caused by the environment or lack of moisture."

3. Guard Against the Elements

"Wear a scarf or hat to shield hair from cold winds and dry air outdoors," suggests Dr Kothari. This physical barrier prevents the elements from stripping moisture and causing breakage.

4. Mind the Water Temperature

Dr. Kapoor highlights gentle cleansing: "Keep shower duration under five minutes to maintain the scalp barrier. Avoid extremes of temperature: do not use very hot or very cold water; use normal room-temperature water."

5. Minimise Heat and Chemical Stress

Grey hair is sensitive to heat. Always use a heat protectant spray before any styling. Furthermore, Dr Kapoor cautions against frequent colouring or harsh chemical treatments that can weaken the already vulnerable strands. When washing, Dr Kapoor advises, "After washing, do not use hair dryers and always air-dry your hair."

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6. Embrace Oil and Shine

To combat frizz and add brilliance, "Apply light oils such as coconut or argan oil," recommends Dr Kapoor. She adds that applying oil for half an hour every 15–20 days before a hair wash, especially in winter, to nourish the hair, is essential.

7. Trim and Nourish from Within

Get regular trims every 6-8 weeks to snip off split ends and keep the look fresh. Crucially, Dr Yadav stresses diet: "Consume a diet rich in iron, protein, and Vitamin B12." Nutritional deficiencies in copper or zinc can accelerate greying, so support your hair health from the inside out.

Grey hair is often thinner and weaker, craving consistent moisture and gentle treatment. Dr Yadav advises using products specifically made for dry or mature hair that contain UV-protective serums, as grey hair is more sensitive to sunlight.

Dr Kapoor's final advice resonates with an ethos of gentle, informed care: "The most important thing is to always consult your dermatologist and avoid experimenting with home remedies,. maintaining the scalp barrier is essential." With the right habits and hydration, your silver strands can maintain their strength, shine, and undeniable elegance all winter season.

Image courtesy: Freepik

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