Women told 'number one' hair care rule for smooth locks - avoid frizz and create volume

This is according to founder of Oblique House of Hair Mariana Eidelkind, who recommended product types, hair styles and tips to limit the effects of the weather.

Keep your hair up

Mariana said: "Autumn winds and rain can leave your hair tangled and frizzy, especially if you wear it down. Over time, this can lead to increased breakage. To combat this, try alternative hairstyles which keep your hair up and out of the face during harsh weather conditions.

"This could be a high bun, ponytail or braids, for example. Be conscious not to tie your hair up too tight, as this can cause tension and friction, which can lead to increased hair loss. Make sure to use silk scrunchies to reduce friction, breakage and prevent stress on your scalp."

Use volumising products

"To combat flat and lifeless hair after rainfall, opt for volumising shampoos and conditioners that add body and lift, without weighing the hair down. These products are designed to boost volume at the roots, giving your hair a fuller appearance. Volumising shampoos typically contain ingredients like proteins and polymers that coat the hair shaft, creating thickness and texture.

"They cleanse gently while enhancing volume, making them ideal for fine hair or hair that is weighed down with a natural buildup of dust, dirt or sweat. Volumising conditioners are specifically formulated to nourish the hair, without sacrificing on the volume when maintaining the hair’s silky softness. Ingredients like biotin, collagen, and keratin can strengthen the hair and enhance fullness to give a voluminous look."

Use a deep conditioning mask

The expert said: "If you’re prone to frizzy and unruly hair, you are aware the number one rule to maintaining smooth locks is to keep moisture in the hair. Weekly deep conditioning treatments can work wonders to provide intense hydration to the hair, whilst repairing damage.

"Look for at-home masks with key oils that add nutrients and hydrate the hair, such as argan oil. avocado oil, jojoba extracts and macadamia oil. Apply the mask from mid-length to ends, leave it on for the recommended time, and rinse thoroughly for soft, manageable hair.

"If your goal is to repair damaged hair and protect it in future with anti-ageing properties, a course of professional treatments may be required, with active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, keratin, elastin, fibre and oil blends."

Protect your hair from dry indoor heat

"As temperatures drop, we naturally find ourselves spending more time indoors to stay warm," the expert added.

"This season brings more exposure to dry air from indoor heating systems, which can affect both skin and hair.

"To prevent your hair from becoming dehydrated and brittle, switch to more hydrating products that help lock in moisture, like leave-in conditioners and serums. Apply these products after showering to protect your hair from both the rain and the drying effects of home heating."

Try keratin treatments for unruly hair

Mariana said: "If your hair is particularly unruly and resistant to other treatments, consider a keratin treatment.

"Keratin has revolutionised the way we manage frizz and maintain sleek hair during rough weather conditions.

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"With modern keratin treatments, the result is manageable hair that lasts between three to five months depending on hair type, without any damage to the hair. The key to this is to look for modern keratin treatments that are formaldehyde-free.

"This means they do not contain harmful formaldehyde or its derivatives, making them safer for both clients and stylists. It works by replenishing lost keratin in the hair, which strengthens and smooths each strand from within. Whether your hair is strongly damaged, chemically treated, blond, wavy, curly, or particularly stubborn, a keratin treatment is a great option to keep it frizz-free and easy to manage."

Shield your hair from harsh weather

The expert added: "As well as using nourishing products to protect your hair from the elements, it’s important to also physically protect your hair when stepping outside in the rain. Remembering to take an umbrella outside is the best way to shield your hair.

"Also, wearing hats, scarves or headbands on rainy days can create a barrier between your hair and the rainfall. This helps minimise frizz and protect your strands from harsh winds and wet weather. For extra protection, choose accessories made from soft, natural fabrics like silk or cotton to avoid causing static."