Dear Santa,

All I want for Christmas is great hair.

December has arrived and with it the hustle and bustle of the holidays. As Christmas creeps ever closer cooler weather continues to arrive in Kansas. Despite being slightly warmer than last December the cold, dry air reminds me of the reassuring fact that the period of rest for nature is just around the corner. Throughout the busy Christmas season we can use winter as a reminder that as God created nature to rest, we are also created to slow down. Take time to settle in, grab some hot chocolate, and a cozy blanket as we talk about our hair in winter.

Winter can be brutal as it is beautiful in some aspects. Dangerous weather conditions, delays, and frigid conditions accompany these frosty months. Another companion of winter is dry air. Dry air can wreck havoc on our hair and skin if we don't take the proper measures to protect them. Our hair is especially at risk for breakage and dry strands. Scarves, coats, and hats are essential wardrobe elements to combat the cold, however we must be gentle with our hair as we pull on these winter warriors. Making time to move hair out of the way, gently putting on hats, and putting our hair in protective styles can guard our precious strands against mechanical damage. Winter is prime time for breakage caused by clothing so a few extra seconds of considering your hair can save more strands than you'd think. On a similar note we must also think of the more subtle ways winter can impact our hair health.

Hydration. Something we all want, whether it be for our skin, hair, or just our body in general. It is often more than just drinking the appropriate amount of water and calling it good. (I believe we all, me included, could use more water than we think.) Moisturizers are usually applied more heavily in the colder months due to drier skin, but it's not as common to think about our hair. These past few weeks, I have seen multiple guests come in and talk about how their hair seems drier. My co-workers and I always suggest applying more moisture/hydration-based products to them. We do the same for our skin, why not our hair? A hydrating serum is always a good option; I recently purchased one that is doing wonders for my fine strands. A leave-in conditioner is also fantastic around this time of the year. There are many different options, so don't be afraid of weighing your hair down; there are plenty for every hair type. Products like these can add a boost of hydration that alone a conditioner and shampoo cannot achieve sometimes. To protect the most fragile part of our hair, the ends, a nourishing hair oil can be applied. Hair oils can help prevent breakage and add moisture to dry ends. Hair oils are a lovely product and there are many different kinds. All of these suggestions are ways you can add in moisture and protect your hair against the winter weather. There are plenty of resources that can give you detailed information so you can pick products that fit you and your personal hair needs!

Christmas time is here and the days are flying by. This busy season can sometimes feel so short but I urge you to take time and savor the festivities. Slowing down can sometimes seem like a foreign concept in our fast paced world but it is essential to our physical and mental well being. Perhaps take time to focus on your hair, light a candle and watch a holiday movie. A moment to yourself as you care for your hair. You could implement some of the tips in this post and keep it looking Christmas party ready all the while caring for your personal health by slowing down. Being gentle with both yourself and your hair. As nature settles down so can you.

Happy Holidays and many blessings

Love, Laelle