As soon as winter rolls around, hair adopts a life of its own. If you also have dry or fine hair, the season’s cold temperatures, lack of humidity in the air, and heated indoor environments can create a force field of electricity around your head.

Static electricity occurs when negatively-charged electrons fly off an object like your hair, leaving it filled with positive charges that resist each other. The end result is unpredictable hair that just won’t lie flat.

Fortunately, there are ways to pacify static electricity and the fly-aways it causes. Here are 8 ways that can help combat static hair this winter and beyond.

1. Switch to a metal comb. When it comes to staticky, fly-away hair, plastic is not your friend. Metal is better because it is more conductive and will cause the electric charges building up in your hair to discharge, reducing the amount of static present. However, they can be rough on your hair so use them with care.
2. Use hairspray. Spritz your hairbrush with hairspray and run it through your hair from root to tip to lightly set your style in place. before leaving the house. This technique is also great for touch-ups throughout the day.
3. Add hair oil to your routine. Adding hair oil onto your hair before styling can lock in moisture and reduce frizz and flyaways. Place a drop of oil on one hand and rub it between your palms. Then, smooth down your hair with your lightly oiled hands, concentrating on the ends being sure to avoid the roots.
4. Keep a spray bottle of water handy. If you’re without hairspray or moisturizer, just use water to get your hair under control. Avoid the soaking wet look and keep a small spray bottle of water in your bag or at your desk to tame flyaways in a pinch.
5. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Make sure your shampoo and conditioner are as hydrating as possible and formulated for your hair type. Look for products that are not only nourishing, but also free from sulphates, parabens, silicones and dyes for shiny which can dry out hair.
6. Dry off with a hair towel. When hair is wet it absorbs a large amount of water and this swelling causes the outer layer, known as the cuticle, to lift up. This makes your hair particularly vulnerable to flyaways. Standard towels can be harsh and lead to breakage. Try a microfiber or jersey towel to dry your hair; they absorb the excess without drying out the hair.
7. Invest in silk pillowcases. Not only do silk or satin pillowcases add a touch of glam to your bedroom, they also protect the hair cuticle while you sleep. If you’re feeling extra glamorous or don’t want to break from your bedding aesthetic, you can also try luxe silk hair wraps.
8. Upgrade your hair dryer. Ionic hair dryers emit negatively-charged ions that attach themselves to your positively-charged hair for a neutralizing effect. This helps seal the strands’ cuticles to retain moisture and dry hair faster, minimizing damage. While pricey, they are worth the investment if you use a lot of hot styling tools on your hair.

And yet, static electricity is only a small fraction of the hair troubles many experience. If your hair is not as thick and full as it once was, or that hairline is receding more and more each day, it’s time you talk to the experts at DiStefano Hair Restoration Center. Our highly skilled and dedicated staff is experienced in the most up-to-date hair restoration techniques to help you love your hair again. Contact us to schedule your free consultation today.