10 Hair Care Tips For Surviving Alaska’s Cold Weather

Healthy hair commitment is a never-ending process and one that requires hard work in order to find the best resources you need to take care of your hair no matter where you go.

For someone who loves the outdoors, cruises to Alaska are an amazing way to get up close to nature and enjoy surreal views of the ocean. However, depending on the ports of call, your hair could face many different elements and climates.

Most Alaska cruises sail in summer, when highs in Southeast Alaska often sit between 50 and 60°F, with frequent rain. Between cold wind on deck and heated cabin air, keeping your hair healthy in Alaska’s dry climate can be quite challenging.

But even on the chilliest days, you can maintain the healthiest possible hair appearance by following these ten hair care guidelines.

1 . Use natural oils for deep conditioning

Using a natural conditioner, like extra virgin coconut oil, can achieve deep hydration by penetrating through the hair shafts. Apply the warm coconut oil to the hair for at least one hour and then wash it out to leave your hair hydrated and frizz-free. Argan oil is also an ideal nutrient for dry hair as it has a high content of fatty acids and vitamin E.

2 . Use a leave-in conditioner

To protect your hair from the elements, use a leave-in conditioner to provide a strong defense from inclement weather. Consider a multi-functional product having natural ingredients like shea butter and aloe Vera, that trap the moisture and shield your hair against the elements. A spray formula can help detangle, control frizz, and add some heat protection.

3 . Minimize heat styling

Choose heat-free hairstyles like buns or braids to spare the hair from heat damage from curling irons or blow dryers. Air dry as much as possible and if there is no alternative, use a heat-protectant spray at the lowest heat setting to prevent hair damage. Dermatologists also recommend low or medium heat settings whenever you do use heat tools.

4 . Combat indoor dryness

The dry environment inside your stateroom due to the indoor heating can cause hair to lose moisture. Using a humidifier can be of help in keeping the hair nourished and reduce hair breakage by providing the much-needed moisture to the air inside your cabin.

5 . Incorporate aloe vera into your routine

Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that helps hydrate and soothe the hair. Apply pure aloe vera gel cream as a form of leave-in conditioner on your scalp and wash with a regular conditioner for an extra dose of moisture boost.

6 . Consider DIY hair masks

Use a honey and avocado-formulated hair mask which is packed with vitamins, healthy fats, and honey as a natural humectant that draws in moisture. Two spoons of honey mixed in a mashed avocado can add shine to the hair. Allow the mixture to sit for thirty minutes and then rinse it.

7 . Drink plenty of water

Never forget the importance of water when talking about having natural healthy hair. Staying hydrated is not only crucial for maintaining hair health but for overall wellness and health as well. Keep drinking water even when it is cold. Water won’t fix dry hair on its own, though; conditioner and oils do that work.

8 . Use a dry shampoo

Using a natural dry shampoo that can absorb the extra oil is an excellent option for the days you have to forego a hair wash. Look for a product that contains organic ingredients like cornstarch or powdered arrowroot to refresh and clean the hair without water. It will not only absorb the excess sebum but give immediate shine and body to the hair.

9 . Wear a scarf or hat

A simple and fine method to safeguard your hair from cold wind and rain is by wearing a hat or scarf when on the deck or during onshore excursions, which can also complement your winter color coordinates for a chic, nature-inspired look. Choose a silk-lined or satin hat that will allow the hair to glide on the surface and reduce breakage. Don a stylish scarf to provide an extra layer of protection from hair damage.

10 . Key points for hair care on a cruise to Alaska

• Pack travel-sized products of your preferred products to avoid bulky containers.
• Choose humidity-fighting products that are specially designed to prevent frizz and maintain style, despite the humid conditions you are likely to encounter on your cruise.
• Light-weight leave-in conditioner to add moisture and as a protection from the elements.
• Strong-hold hair spray to keep your hair in place, especially during windy conditions
• A wide-toothed comb is a must to combat tangled hair from exposure to salty air.

Taking care of your hair doesn’t have to be a struggle on an Alaska cruise. These days, you can easily counter the problems of cold weather and indoor heating by embracing the beauty of natural hair products and taking pleasure in maintaining glossy locks throughout the cruise trip.

Sources

• Weather, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, National Park Service
• Tips for healthy hair, American Academy of Dermatology