As temperatures drop and radiators click on, your skin isn’t the only thing that feels drier – your hair and scalp suffer, too. Central heating creates a warm but moisture-sapping environment that can leave your hair feeling brittle, frizzy and lacklustre.
At Hair + Me, we see a noticeable increase in people reporting dryness, itchiness and increased shedding during the colder months. But with the right knowledge (and a few small tweaks to your routine), you can protect your hair’s hydration – from root to tip.
1. How central heating affects your hair and scalp
While cosy homes are a winter essential, the dry, warm air from central heating systems draws moisture out of the air – and your hair.
Here’s what happens:
Moisture imbalance: Heated indoor air causes your scalp and hair to lose water, leading to dryness and dullness.
Weakened barrier: A dehydrated scalp becomes more prone to irritation and flaking, which can impact hair follicles and hair growth.
Increased breakage: Lack of moisture makes hair less elastic, which can break more easily when brushed or styled.
Frizz and static: Dry air + synthetic clothing = hair that stands on end.
Think of it like your hair’s version of “winter skin” – tight, dehydrated and in need of extra care.
2. Signs your hair is dehydrated (not just dry)
It’s easy to confuse dryness with dehydration, but here’s how to spot the difference:
Dry hair lacks oils – it feels rough or coarse.
Dehydrated hair lacks water – it feels limp, lifeless and frizzy.
Central heating typically causes dehydration, not oil imbalance. You might notice:
Dullness and lack of shine
Hair that tangles or breaks easily
Tight, itchy or flaky scalp
Frizz that no amount of oil seems to fix
3. How to protect your hair from central heating damage
a. Hydrate from the inside out
Just like your skin, your hair relies on hydration from the inside. Drink plenty of water and eat water-rich foods (like cucumber, berries and leafy greens).
Boost hydration with nutrients that support hair structure – omega-3s, zinc, biotin and vitamin D – all of which can help fortify your hair during drier months.
b. Humidify your space
A humidifier adds moisture back into the air, countering the drying effects of radiators and heated air. Even a small desktop version can help maintain your scalp’s natural balance – especially if you work from home or spend long hours indoors.
c. Use a moisture-rich shampoo and conditioner
Look for hydrating formulas with ingredients like glycerin, panthenol or hyaluronic acid. These act like magnets for moisture, helping to replenish your hair shaft and soothe your scalp.
If you’re using a Hair + Me treatment like minoxidil, make sure your scalp is clean and dry before application – and avoid products that contain alcohol or harsh surfactants that can worsen dehydration.
d. Apply a leave-in conditioner or serum
Lock in hydration with a lightweight leave-in conditioner or scalp serum designed to prevent water loss. Apply it to damp hair after washing, focusing on the ends.
Bonus tip: Massage your scalp for 2-3 minutes to stimulate circulation and support follicle health.
e. Adjust your washing and styling routine
Turn down the water temperature – hot showers strip natural oils faster.
Limit heat styling – air dry when possible and always use heat protectant.
Avoid overwashing – shampooing too often removes your scalp’s natural oils, leading to more dryness.
Even small changes make a big difference to your hair’s hydration barrier.
4. The scalp-hair connection: why moisture matters for regrowth
A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. When your scalp becomes dry or irritated, hair growth can be affected, impacting how well topical treatments like minoxidil work.
Keeping your scalp hydrated and nourished ensures your hair follicles remain receptive to regrowth ingredients.
At Hair + Me, we always remind our community: consistency is key – even during winter, when hair might feel more delicate.
5. Winter hair care essentials checklist
✅ Keep your environment humidified
✅ Stay consistent with your Hair + Me treatment
✅ Wash hair with gentle, hydrating products
✅ Protect ends with a leave-in conditioner
✅ Cover hair outdoors to protect from wind chill
✅ Stay hydrated – water and nutrients both matter
Final thoughts
Central heating may be unavoidable in winter, but dry, brittle hair doesn’t have to be. With a few mindful tweaks, you can maintain hydration, prevent breakage and support stronger, healthier regrowth – all season long.
At Hair + Me, our dermatologist-designed treatment plans help your scalp and follicles stay nourished from the inside out – so you can keep your hair looking its healthiest through every temperature change.
Take our quick online consultation today to see which personalised treatment is right for you.