How Do I Prevent Static Hair in the Winter?

Ah, winter: warming coffee drinks, cozy sweaters and… staticky hair that makes you look like you stuck a fork in a socket. But there’s help for those cold-weather flyaways! We asked hair care expert and BosleyMD trichologist Gretchen Friese for some tips on how to prevent static hair during the winter months.

First, the science: What causes static? When your hair has a buildup of electrical charge (often from lack of humidity), and then rubs against certain objects — like a hat, or a sweater being pulled over your head — friction is created and a static response occurs. Conditions during the winter months certainly don't help. “The cold air during the winter is usually drier, and using heat in our homes and cars will make the air in our environments more dry as well,” Friese says.

Because a lack of moisture is one of the key reasons for static hair, it’s important to use hair care products that are hydrating as well as conditioning. “You can prevent extra static in your hair by making sure to use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner or a leave-in conditioner after washing your hair,” Friese advises. “Using a humidifier in your home can help as well.” (Note: A humidifier can be a great way to combat dry winter skin, too.)

Sometimes, though, all the hair care products in your arsenal are no match for that dry, winter air. So, if your ’do does end up becoming electric, Friese has suggestions for taming it. “You can spray a light moisturizing detangler — such as  BosleyMD BosVolumize Volumizing & Thickening Nourishing Leave-In — on your hair, or put a little oil throughout your strands to calm it down,” she says. We also like Dae’s Cactus Fruit 3-in-1 Styling Cream With Taming Wand, which smoothes strands on the go. 

Lastly, if you’re in a bind with no product on hand and you want a quick fix, try this viral tip: Take a piece of household aluminum foil and gently pass it over your hair to calm those strays. A dryer sheet works in a pinch, too.