Autumn and winter in the UK are always “high-risk seasons” for my hair. Strong winds, dry air, and large temperature swings between morning and evening often leave my hair frizzy and tangled by the time I wake up. A few gusts of wind after stepping outside can instantly turn me from a “stylish girl” into a “frizzy lionhead.”

In these times, the state of my hair is more important than which coat I’m wearing. No matter how expensive the outfit or how perfect the makeup, if your hair is flying everywhere and frizzing around your face, your style points take a big hit. That’s why over the years, I’ve devoted myself to studying haircare—from shampoo routines to styling tricks to emergency fixes. After trying out a variety of methods and products, I’ve finally developed a reliable anti-frizz routine. Let me walk you through it, step by step.

1. What Really Causes Frizz? It’s Not Just the Wind!

Many people think frizzy hair is just caused by the wind. Actually, the main culprits include:

  1. Lack of moisture: Dry air in autumn and winter dehydrates hair, especially fine hair, causing strands to puff up.
  2. Static buildup: Woolly clothes like jumpers, scarves, and coats generate static, making hair stand on end.
  3. Cuticle damage: Frequent dyeing, low-quality shampoos, or heat styling all strip away the hair’s protective layer.
  4. Improper haircare: Vigorously towel-drying hair, reckless blow-drying, or skipping conditioner all contribute to frizz.

It’s not just about one product. You need a full routine from start to finish to prevent the frizz.

2. Wash Your Hair the Right Way: The First Step to Fighting Frizz

Don’t underestimate how you wash your hair. The right shampoo, conditioner, and drying method make a huge difference.

Recommended shampoos by hair type:

  • Fine or flat hair: Go for lightweight moisturising formulas with hydrolysed wheat protein or vitamin B5.
    Recommendation: L’Oréal Professionnel Série Expert Volumetry Shampoo (available on Amazon)
  • Dry and split ends: You’ll need deep hydration and repair with ingredients like argan oil, keratin, and ceramides.
    Recommendation: OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo + Conditioner (popular on Amazon UK)
  • Curly or frizzy hair: Go for moisture-locking and smoothing formulas with coconut oil, shea butter, and glycerin.
    Recommendation: SheaMoisture Curl & Shine Shampoo and Conditioner

Post-wash tips:

  • Don’t rub your hair with a towel! Use a cotton t-shirt or microfiber towel and gently pat to avoid damaging the cuticles.

Blow-dry order matters:

  • Apply heat protectant spray first (a must!).
  • Dry from roots to ends, following the direction of hair growth.
  • Use medium heat and keep the dryer at a safe distance.
  • Finish with a cold blast to seal the hair cuticle.

3. Conditioner Isn’t Enough: Deep Care Is the Real Fix

Hair is like skin. Occasional deep treatments can make a noticeable difference.

Hair masks (1–2 times per week):

  • Kérastase Nutritive Masquintense: Extremely nourishing, instantly smoothes damaged, frizzy hair.
  • Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask: More natural, lighter texture but still very hydrating.

How to use:
After shampooing, gently towel-dry your hair, apply the mask evenly, wrap with a shower cap or warm towel, wait 15–20 minutes, then rinse.

Hair oils are your friend (not the enemy):

  • Don’t overdo it—a coin-sized amount is enough.
  • Apply from mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the roots.

My favorites:

  • Moroccanoil Treatment Original
  • L’Oréal Elvive Extraordinary Oil

Nighttime care works wonders too:
Before bed, apply a bit of leave-in night serum (like from The Body Shop or Kérastase). The next morning, your hair will be much smoother.

4. On-the-Go Fixes: Frizz Emergency Kits That Actually Work

Sometimes, you step out and the wind wreaks havoc—these quick-fix items are lifesavers:

Anti-static brushes:
Use an ionic or metal-bristled brush instead of plastic. I always carry a mini Tangle Teezer for instant taming.

Anti-frizz sprays:
Alcohol-free sprays work best. Spray lightly for instant smoothing without greasiness.
Recommended: John Frieda Frizz Ease Daily Miracle Leave-In Conditioner

Hair balm sticks:
If you have bangs or baby hairs along your hairline, a hair balm stick is a game-changer. It works like mascara—swipe and smooth.

5. Scalp Health = Hair Health

A healthy scalp is essential. Dry, irritated scalps lead to brittle and frizzy hair.

Scalp tips:

  • Exfoliate weekly with a gentle scalp scrub or brush.
  • Massage your scalp while washing to boost circulation.
  • Use scalp serums from brands like The Ordinary or Grow Gorgeous.

6. What You Eat and How You Sleep Matters

Hair is part of your body—neglecting nutrition or sleep shows up in your strands.

Everyday habits:

  • Eat foods rich in protein, B vitamins, and zinc: eggs, nuts, spinach.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Sleep well and regularly.

7. Beautiful Hair Is the Foundation of Great Style

You don’t have to dye, curl, or style your hair to the max. But neglecting haircare will always show. Especially in colder months with heavy knitwear and scarves, frizzy hair is more noticeable than ever.

I’ve come to realise that good hair is like good foundation—it may not be obvious, but it elevates everything. Haircare may not deliver miracles overnight, but once you commit to it, you’ll start to feel that quiet confidence every time you run your hand through your smooth strands.