Tired of spending your winters with static electricity coating your hair? We’ve all been there: after spending the morning washing, styling and perfecting your hair, one step outside has your hair transforming into a lightning rod. You reach up to soothe your locks, but instead of the silky-smooth strands from earlier, you’re greeted with an actual zap – or even worse, a spark!
While you can’t control the weather, there are a few steps you can take to lower the chances of static disrupting an otherwise perfect hair day. Keep reading to learn what causes hair static and 9 ways to avoid it!
The Science of Static
Hair care is both a science and an art, especially when it comes to static electricity. And in most cases, hair static can be scientifically explained by a combination of two factors: friction and dryness.
During the winter months, your hair might pick up extra friction from your winter coat, scarf or hat. The dryness, both from the weather and your hair itself, then worsens the friction and creates static electricity.
So, if your hair is damaged or you live in a cold and dry climate, you’re at a higher risk of hair static!
Switch to a Moisture Shampoo
To overcome your static woes, the first step to take is to switch to a shampoo like Neu Moisture Shampoo that is going to nourish your strands. With moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter and argan oil lubricating your strands at the root level, it’ll be far easier for your hair to avoid rubbing together and ward off static before it starts. This is particularly effective for damaged or chemically treated hair! Plus, who doesn’t love the sweet aroma of Lavender, Mandarin, and Vanilla?
Wash Your Hair Less Often
Although all our shampoos are great for daily use, some people find that less frequent shampooing results in less static electricity. Everyone’s head of hair is different, but reducing your washing sessions to a couple of times per week can help your scalp produce moisturizing oils on its own!
If you’re looking to go a few days in between Hair Wash Day, consider using Re Neu Shampoo and Conditioner to revitalize and nourish the hair and scalp with their gentle, purifying formulas designed to remove build-up and impurities. This dynamic duo leaves hair clean, fresh, soft and vibrant.
Additionally, try washing your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot. The goal is to boost hydration, and piping hot water can dry out your hair further.
Upgrade Your Conditioner
If static electricity is your enemy, high-quality conditioners will be your ally! As with shampoo, a hydrating conditioner is an essential line of defense thanks to its lubricating properties and nourishing results. Neu Moisture Conditioner works universally, but readers with breakage might want to consider Neu Repair Conditioner as well.
Thinking of shampooing your hair less often? Don’t forget that you can use conditioner without shampooing first – in fact, a few rinses with just conditioner can do wonders for static-prone hair!
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
As with many hair goals, not just any shampoo or conditioner will do the trick. If your products are formulated with harsh chemicals like sulfate surfactants, they might actually dry your hair more, worsening your static problem even further.
That’s why we prioritize CLEAN formulas across every Neuma innovation. On top of protecting the planet, our careful ingredient selection also ensures safer, more effective results for our customers. Trust us – once you go CLEAN, there’s no going back!
Indulge in a Hair Mask
For a total hair transformation that also combats the perils of static, a hair mask is a must. Whether you’re looking for extra hydration, a smooth texture, lasting shine or a post-bleach recovery treatment, the Neu Moisture Masque has you covered! You only have to leave it on for two minutes to see the results. On top of ultra-rich moisture, your strands will have a noticeably easier time staying tame in the face of static.
Never Forget Your Leave-In Hair Treatment
We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again: never leave the house without a spritz of your favorite leave-in treatment! No matter what you get up to throughout your day, the right leave-in product will revitalize your hair for you as you go.
The Neu Repair Leave-In does an especially good job of protecting moisture without feeling heavy and the Neu Moisture Argan Oil is all about replacing frizz with shine. Both are formulated with non-greasy oils that smell amazing and fortify your strands all day long.
Be Picky with Your Tools
Of course, your hair itself isn’t the only thing drumming up friction. If nothing else seems to be working, your tools might be to blame! Do you have any combs or brushes made from metal in your toolkit? If so, they’re likely electrifying your hair further. You’ll get better results with a soft-bristled brush or wooden comb!
During particularly rough dry spells, we also recommend skipping brushing when your hair is dry. Do your best to brush only when your hair is wet or spray dry hair with a leave-in treatment before brushing.
Opt for Air-Drying
You might have noticed by now that dry conditions worsen hair static. And, as anyone who styles their hair knows, heat tools are the fastest way to turn hydrated hair into thirsty strands. If you tend to blow dry your hair, switching to air drying might be all you need to get rid of that static!
We know, we know – it’s difficult to give up the blow dryer, especially when it’s so cold outside. To make the transition easier, try replacing your usual blow-dry session with Neu Styling Air Dry Shaper. Simply apply it to towel-dried hair, scrunch and twist as needed and style as normal once it’s dried. You’ll love the natural texture and shine!
Always Use Heat Protectant
Finally, if heat tools are required, always remember to apply your favorite heat protectant beforehand. This doesn’t just prevent breakage and damage – it also helps lock in moisture and prevent static throughout the day.
Our Neu Volume Styling Spray, Neu Moisture Argan Oil and Neu Repair Leave-In are all blended with heat protectants and a host of other style-boosting ingredients.
Static hair doesn’t stand a chance this winter! Enjoy the start of the season and don’t forget to follow along for more hair care tips and trends on Instagram (@neumabeauty) and TikTok (@neumabeauty).