We are in the midst of the changing seasons, and with that comes a whole host of new transitional hair trends to consider. Are you looking to enhance those leftover summer highlights? Perhaps you fancy going Serena blonde? Or maybe you’re enjoying the blue-black glossed ink shades we’ve been seeing a lot of recently.

It might not even be a colour change you’re looking for, and instead maybe you’re thinking about chopping your hair off in favour of a chic bob, or opting for a low maintenance hush cut. But whatever you decide, there’s one trend suitable for all of us, and it comes in the form of ‘hibernation hair’.

Coined by Michael Shaun Corby, Living Proof’s hair expert, he explains that the change in seasons is the perfect excuse to hibernate indoors. “It provides plenty of time to repair, reset and rest hair, which means cutting out the heat styling ahead of the festivities,” he says.

What is hibernation hair?

Instead of continuing with your regular routine, hibernation hair is about being more conscious. It’s taking the time to do weekly leave-in treatments, investing in conditioning masks and laying off the straighteners, curlers and other heat styling tools – if you can.

“As the weather turns cold, hair can become more susceptible to damage – no matter what your hair type, curl pattern or texture,” explains Corby. “The transition of indoor heat to outdoor cold can make the hair cuticles lift and reduce their ability to retain moisture, which ultimately leads to dry, dull, static hair.”

Corby goes on to explain that all hair types can, and should, integrate a conditioning treatment into their routine to make up for lost moisture. “My advice is always to follow the on-pack directions and ensure you rinse it out thoroughly, then if you have drier hair, use a leave-in conditioner,” he says. “Oil treatments are good, but make sure you’re using natural oils; they’re especially beneficial for protective styles because they stop the scalp drying out, but everybody can benefit. However, finer hair types will have to wash them out, so apply them on wash day.”

What are the best hair masks to use in colder months?

“Everyone has different and complex, individual hair types therefore isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ ingredient or formula,” says Corby. “I would avoid anything with heavy silicones in it, which can cause build-up and lead to damage. Instead, look for brands integrating hemisqualane into their products. It’ll help manage frizz, seal cuticles and repair the hair’s surface.”

While masks should be an essential part of everybody’s hair routine, how often you use them really depends on the extent of damage. Look for deep-conditioning masks formulated for your hair type, and if in doubt, incorporate them into your routine once or twice a week.

Images: Getty; courtesy of brands