While most people know what summer can do to their hair, the run-up to Christmas brings its own set of challenges.

Cold outdoor air, cozy evenings spent near radiators, and the sudden drop in humidity can all leave hair drier, flatter and more prone to breakage, just as December calendars fill with work parties and family plans.

Luckily, experts at beauty and wellness marketplace Fresha have shared their top advice for keeping hair looking its best throughout the festive season.

Avoid heading out into the cold with damp hair

Freezing temperatures weaken the hair shaft, meaning damp strands are far more likely to snap. Whether you’re rushing out to a Christmas market, meeting friends for festive drinks, or simply braving a frosty morning, make sure your hair is fully dry before stepping outside. Towel-dry gently to remove excess moisture, then finish with a cooler hair dryer setting if you’re short on time.

Give your scalp some attention during party season

Indoor heating and low humidity can leave the scalp feeling tight or itchy. A weekly hydrating serum or gentle scalp scrub helps restore balance at this time of year, especially if you’re styling your hair more often for festive plans. Look for calming ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, or tea tree, and massage them into the scalp to boost circulation and support your skin barrier.

Swap your regular shampoo for a more hydrating formula

If your usual shampoo feels harsher in winter, it may be stripping too much moisture. Switching to a hydration-focused formula, particularly one containing oils, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid, keeps strands soft and static-free, making styling easier for any December get-togethers.

Reduce hat-and-scarf friction

Wool and knitwear are staples in winter, but they can cause friction that leads to static and breakage around the crown and ends. Lining hats or hoods with satin or silk helps protect the cuticle, while loosely braiding your hair or tucking it into your coat can reduce snagging from scarves when you’re out at Christmas events or running festive errands.

Use a leave-in conditioner to keep static under control

Dry air and heavy winter layers often spark flyaways. A lightweight leave-in conditioner or anti-static spray adds a thin layer of moisture that keeps hair smooth throughout the day, which is especially useful when you’re moving between cold outdoor air and cozy indoor spaces.

Get a small trim ahead of the holidays

Split ends tend to develop faster in winter, particularly if hair is color-treated or regularly heat-styled. Booking a small trim in December keeps your ends healthy and helps prevent damage from spreading, leaving your hair looking fuller in holiday photos or at seasonal gatherings.

Run a humidifier overnight

Heating can sap moisture from the air, leaving your hair feeling rough or dehydrated by morning. Using a bedroom humidifier helps restore humidity while you sleep, reducing overnight frizz and keeping your hair softer throughout the festive season.