For naturally curly hair, it is very hard to obtain moisture in cooler weather. As curly hair maintenance evolves throughout the media, many influencers online, specifically on YouTube, have informed the natural hair community of a variety of ways to lock in that moisture during these most dreadful times of the year.

Taking care of hair can be a hassle for anyone, but for curly-haired people, they go through more when it comes to taking care of it. For curly hair, it doesn’t shed until it’s time for detangling.

Fall and winter can bring harm to curly hair because the cold air strips away moisture, leading to breakage, split ends and frizz. These are five ways to keep your curls nourished.

Deep condition regularly 

Deep conditioning should be a regular routine because it adds and maintains moisture in your hair. Deep conditioning should be done no more than two times a week, according to Sabrina Perkins, writer for Naturally Curly. Doing hair treatments will help prevent damage, promote elasticity and add more shine. 

Use protective hairstyles 

Any kind of protective hairstyle such as braids, twists and locs are often worn in the Black community to protect their hair from being easily damaged. These styles go far beyond aesthetics. It has history dating back to slavery. These protective hairstyles were meant to give Black women protection from high manipulation, since this is one of the causes for hair breakage, along with dryness. With protective hairstyles, it not only protects the hair but is also a beautiful style to switch up one’s look. Styles such as box braids, bantu knots and locs are beautiful hairstyles to have and they last a while, depending on the nature of the maintenance. 

Hot oil treatments

Best for stimulating hair growth, hot oil treatments allow your scalp to have nourishment. It helps increase the blood flow in the scalp, reduces dryness and strengthens hair to become healthier. For some people, hot oil treatments may support hair growth.

Protect hair at night 

It’s crucial for curly hair to stay protected at all times, even while sleeping. One of the best ways to protect curly hair before bed is to wrap it in either a satin scarf or bonnet. Cotton pillowcases will allow snagging of the hair. Protected by satin, this will allow curly hair to move around without the risk of creating split ends. For longer hair, doing a pineapple updo will keep the hair in one place.

Avoid heat 

Avoiding heat can be troublesome for most, especially during the fall and winter holidays. Many people use heat on their hair to achieve a straight look. Heat for all types of hair can be damaging, and for many people who don’t have time to consistently do their hair, it can be difficult to resist.  Low maintenance styles will go a long way, such as braids or other loose hairstyles that will save one’s curls from damage.