Winterizing Those Tresses: Keeping Natural Curls Moisturized, Soft & Beautiful All Winter

Originally Published: October 18, 2012 | Refreshed October 2026

By Lady Carolyn M. Summerset
Crowning Glory — Coils & Kinks

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

Greetings, my beautiful naturalistas!

Ladies, when those chilly winds begin blowing and the temperatures start dropping, we know it's time to bring out our sweaters, coats, scarves, and warm winter accessories.

But what about our beautiful curls and coils?

If you've ever stepped outside on a cold winter morning with soft, defined curls, only to discover later that your hair feels rough, frizzy, or less manageable, you know exactly what I'm talking about!

Winter can present some interesting challenges for natural hair.

Between cold outdoor temperatures, dry indoor heating, knitted hats, and changes in humidity, our regular hair-care routines sometimes need a little adjustment.

And ladies, I remember this challenge particularly well!

When I originally wrote this article in October 2012, I was enjoying my wash-and-go hairstyles and had absolutely no desire to give them up just because winter was approaching.

After all, why should beautiful curls be reserved for summertime?

The secret isn't necessarily changing your hairstyle. It's learning how to care for your curls as the seasons change.

Let's talk about it!

Why Does Natural Hair Sometimes Feel Drier During Winter?

During the colder months, the air outside may contain less moisture, particularly when temperatures drop.

Inside our homes, heating systems can also create conditions that leave the air feeling dry.

Hair responds to changes in its environment, and some women notice increased static, frizz, tangling, or roughness during winter.

But there's another factor worth considering.

Our coats, hats, and scarves are constantly coming into contact with our strands.

Repeated friction from certain fabrics can contribute to tangles and breakage, especially around the nape and hairline.

For naturally curly and coily hair, which bends and twists along the length of each strand, gentle handling remains especially important.

That's why our winter routine should focus on three things:

Conditioning, reducing friction, and preserving the hair we've worked so hard to grow.

1. Don't Abandon Your Wash-and-Go!

Ladies, let's begin with one of my favorite topics!

When I first wrote this article, I noticed that many naturalistas were putting away their wash-and-go styles as winter approached.

But for me, the wash-and-go had become a favorite part of my natural hair journey.

My fine 3C/4A curls responded beautifully to water-based styling, and I enjoyed the freedom of allowing my natural curl pattern to shine.

Today, I still believe you can enjoy wash-and-go styling during cooler weather.

The key is planning your routine around your schedule and comfort.

If you're washing your hair early in the morning, give it adequate time to dry before spending extended periods outdoors in freezing temperatures.

Consider styling earlier in the day or using a diffuser with gentle heat and a heat protectant when appropriate.

And remember, ladies, soaking wet hair isn't a requirement for maintaining beautiful curls throughout the entire day.

Sometimes a light refresh is all we need!

2. Let's Talk About Glycerin During Winter

Now, this is a subject I enjoyed discussing even in my early blogging days!

My curls have often responded favorably to products containing glycerin.

Glycerin is a humectant, meaning it attracts water and helps manage moisture within cosmetic formulations.

Over the years, however, I have heard many naturalistas insist that glycerin should never be used during winter.

But ladies, hair care is rarely that simple!

Glycerin's performance depends on the complete product formula, its concentration, humidity, and the condition of your hair.

Some people find their glycerin-containing products perform beautifully during cold weather, while others prefer different formulations.

You don't necessarily need to abandon glycerin when temperatures drop.

Instead, observe how your hair responds.

If a particular styling product leaves your curls feeling rough or uncomfortable, consider adjusting the amount or trying another formulation.

Your hair's response is often more useful than following a seasonal rule that doesn't work for you.

3. Moisturize Before Applying Oils

One of the lessons I've learned throughout my natural hair journey is that oils and water serve different purposes.

Water-based conditioners and moisturizers help provide hydration and improve manageability.

Oils can lubricate the hair surface, improve shine, and help reduce moisture loss in some routines.

But oil alone doesn't supply water to dry strands.

For my fine curls, I prefer beginning with a lightweight, water-based leave-in conditioner before deciding whether additional oil or styling cream is necessary.

Sometimes a small amount is all I need.

And that's important, ladies, because applying too many heavy products can leave fine natural hair feeling coated and weighed down.

We want soft, touchable curls—not a hairstyle that feels like it's carrying the weight of the world!

4. Protect Those Beautiful Ends

Ladies, our ends deserve some extra love!

The ends of our hair are the oldest portions of our strands, and they're often the first to show signs of wear.

During winter, frequent contact with wool coats, scarves, and high collars can create additional friction.

Consider occasionally wearing your hair in loose twists, a comfortable updo, or another low-manipulation style.

If you enjoy wearing your curls loose, pay attention to the areas rubbing against your clothing.

And remember, protective styling should never involve pulling tightly at the scalp or edges.

The purpose is to reduce unnecessary handling—not create additional tension.

5. Choose Satin-Lined Winter Accessories

Oh, ladies, you know I love a beautiful winter hat!

There's something so elegant about a knitted beret, a stylish tam, or a cozy beanie paired with a beautiful coat.

But the fabric inside the hat matters just as much as its appearance.

Wool and some knitted materials can catch or rub against our strands.

A smooth satin or silk lining may help reduce that friction.

You can also consider a comfortable satin scarf underneath a hat when appropriate.

The key is selecting an accessory that fits without squeezing the hairline or flattening the hairstyle excessively.

And for more winter accessory inspiration, be sure to explore our refreshed article on winter styling.

6. Rethinking the Overnight Plastic Cap Method

In my original 2012 article, I suggested lightly moisturizing the hair, applying oil, twisting, and covering it overnight with a plastic shower cap.

At the time, this was one method I was exploring to help maintain moisture during winter.

However, after years of learning more about natural hair care, I believe we should approach prolonged moisture trapping more carefully.

Sleeping with damp hair underneath an airtight plastic cap may leave the scalp and strands wet for extended periods, which can contribute to discomfort or scalp problems for some people.

Instead, I suggest a gentler approach:

Apply an appropriate amount of leave-in conditioner or moisturizer, allow your hair to dry sufficiently, arrange it in loose twists or another comfortable protective style, and cover it with a breathable satin bonnet or scarf.

The goal is to preserve your hairstyle while keeping your scalp comfortable.

You don't need to sleep with wet hair to have lovely curls in the morning!

7. Refresh Your Curls Without Starting Over

Now, ladies, here's something that can make winter mornings a little easier.

You don't always need to wash your hair again to refresh a wash-and-go.

Depending on your hairstyle, you might gently reshape a few curls with slightly damp hands or a small amount of styling product.

Focus on the areas that need attention rather than soaking your entire head.

For my fine 3C/4A curls, I have found that working carefully with individual sections can help preserve definition without unnecessary manipulation.

If your curls are still looking beautiful, sometimes the best thing to do is leave them alone!

8. Don't Forget Your Scalp

Winter hair care isn't just about our curls.

Our scalp deserves attention, too.

Continue cleansing regularly with a shampoo appropriate for your hair and scalp.

Avoid assuming that every itchy or flaky scalp simply needs more oil.

Persistent flaking, itching, redness, or irritation may require a different approach or guidance from a dermatologist.

Healthy hair-care habits begin with treating both your scalp and strands gently.

9. Build a Winter Routine That Works for You

One thing I've discovered is that there isn't one perfect winter hair routine for every naturalista.

Some women prefer twists and twist-outs.

Others enjoy protective updos.

Some love wash-and-go styling year-round.

And some ladies simply want a beautiful satin-lined hat and an uncomplicated morning!

Whatever your preference, remember to keep your routine manageable.

Choose a cleanser, conditioner, leave-in, and styling product that complement your hair's needs.

Adjust when necessary, but don't feel pressured to purchase an entirely new collection of products each time the weather changes.

Sometimes the products we already own work beautifully with just a few changes in application.

Continue Your Natural Hair Journey

Ladies, if you're preparing your curls for the cooler months, here are three related Crowning Glory articles you'll enjoy!

1. 10 Ways to Keep Your Natural Hair Moisturized

Learn practical moisturizing habits for keeping your curls soft and manageable throughout the seasons.

2. The Beauty Sleep Routine: How to Protect Your 3C & 4A Natural Curls and Coils at Night

Discover gentle nighttime practices that help protect your natural hair while you rest.

3. Combating Frizz: Why Your Natural Hair Gets Frizzy & How to Keep Your Curls Beautifully Defined

Explore simple ways to manage frizz, improve curl definition, and care for your beautiful strands.

Let's Talk, Ladies!

What changes do you make to your natural hair routine when winter arrives?

Do you continue wearing your wash-and-go, or do you switch to twists, updos, and other protective styles?

And here's another question:

Does your hair love glycerin during winter, or do you prefer glycerin-free styling products when the air becomes dry?

I'd love to hear your experiences!

Remember, my beautiful naturalistas:

Winter doesn't mean hiding your natural hair. It means learning how to protect and celebrate your beautiful crown through every season.

Until next time…

Happy Curls to You, My Friend!

Lady Carolyn M. Summerset
Crowning Glory — Coils & Kinks

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