On Your Head: How to Choose the Right Shampoo in the Cold Season 0 27

Moisturizing Shampoos: When Softness and Elasticity Are Needed

Moisturizing shampoos create comfort for dry and dehydrated scalp. Their task is to gently cleanse while retaining water in the stratum corneum, eliminating the feeling of tightness and small flakes. Ingredients often include glycerin, betaine, panthenol, aloe, sodium hyaluronate, and amino acids. The base of such shampoos is usually built on mild surfactants that do not "strip" the lipid mantle.

"If after washing your scalp feels "ringing" from dryness, is tight, itches without a pronounced greasy shine, and the root area looks thin and lifeless, a moisturizing formula is your option. These shampoos are also suitable for curly and wavy hair: they reduce frizz and help the curl lie tighter," explains the expert.

Balancing Shampoos: Sebum Control Without Over-Drying

Balancing shampoos are aimed at oily and combination scalp. Their goal is to normalize sebum production and prolong the feeling of cleanliness without turning the roots into "straw." Formulations often include zinc PCA, niacinamide, extracts of nettle and rosemary, light acids, such as salicylic acid in low concentrations, and mild cleansing bases.

If by evening the roots lose volume, and on the second day the hair already looks unclean, opt for a balancing formula. The combination type also falls here: oily roots, dry lengths. It is important that the shampoo is not excessively harsh and does not provoke reactive sebum production.

Soothing Shampoos: When Everything Irritates

Soothing formulas are needed for sensitive, reactive scalp prone to itching, redness, and discomfort. In the compositions, look for panthenol, allantoin, bisabolol, oats, licorice extract, zinc, and sometimes—pyrithione olamine or mild acids for microbiome control. The base of such shampoos is delicate, the foaming is soft, and the fragrances are unobtrusive.

"If any styling causes a negative reaction, there is burning after washing, and the skin reacts to changes in water, weather, or hats, a soothing shampoo will help relieve background inflammation. It is also beneficial during the adaptation period after aggressive procedures, such as frequent brushing and hot styling," says the stylist.

Reconsider Water Temperature and Hair Dryer Frequency

Hot water increases transepidermal moisture loss and provokes itching. Dry your hair on a medium setting, keeping the hairdryer at a distance, directing the airflow along the hair growth. Do not go to bed with wet hair to avoid irritating the skin with friction and moisture.

Adjust the order of products. Reserve the balancing formula for the roots, protect the lengths with masks or conditioners, and select root lotions according to the task: hydration, soothing, or sebum control. Once every day or two, perform a light massage with your fingertips to improve microcirculation without traumatizing.

The Right Washing Technique Changes Everything

Rub the shampoo with water in your palms until a light foam appears and apply it directly to the scalp. Gently but vigorously massage with your fingertips, avoiding scratching with your nails. Allow the foam to sit for a minute so the ingredients can do their work, then rinse and repeat if necessary.

Do not overload the scalp with conditioner. Apply products for the lengths below the ear area, especially if the roots get oily quickly. Once a week, use a mild acid lotion for the scalp or a gentle exfoliating shampoo. It removes the "crust" and improves the absorption of moisturizing and soothing components.