What causes static, and how to solve it

Once sweater season is in full swing, fine-haired ladies deal with more than just the chill. Without the slightest provocation, every strand of hair propels skyward like that of a Troll Doll. Sound familiar?

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Well, there’s a reason for all that static. The minute the temp drops, the air dries up and our hair loses negatively-charged electrons, leaving us with a head of positively-charged strands, each trying to put as much distance between itself and its fellow hairs as possible. The result? Unmanageable, unwanted winter flyaways. Here’s how to trounce cold weather static:

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON

If your hair could benefit from a little lovin’, now would be a good time to stock up on replenishing hair masks and serums. Treat your tresses to these protective solutions and keep the static at bay.

bh recommends: Oribe Supershine Light Moisturising Cream, muk Spa Argan Oil Repair Mask, bhave™ Riot Control Serum, Moroccanoil Frizz Control

CONDITION, CONDITION, CONDITION

We know you had to be out the door ten minutes ago, but please don’t skip this vital step after washing. Dry air equals dry hair, so unless you’re keen on the whole crazy scientist look, take the extra five to condition your strands. In addition to hydrating hair, conditioners neutralise those static-causing negative charges.

bh recommends: Dove Damage Therapy Daily Moisture Conditioner, De Lorenzo Rejuven8 Conditioner, TIGI S-Factor True Lasting Colour Conditioner, Fudge Big Bold OOMF Conditioner, Paul Mitchell Lemon Sage Thickening Conditioner

STRATEGIC COMBING

When your hair is wet, it’s best to use your fingers or a plastic comb to reduce the risk of tugging, tearing pulling or ripping. But for dry hair, different rules apply. Here’s a fun fact: did you know that using a metal comb on dry hair will help to regulate static by acting as a conductor for the electricity surge? Science, hey.

bh recommends: Lady Jayne Tail Comb, ghd Detangling Comb, Scunci Printed Detangling Comb

COUNTERACT THE DRY

Unless you really, really have to, hold off on shampooing daily. Washing your hair on the reg strips away sebum, causing tresses to become dry and brittle - and prone to static and flyaways. By leaving a 24-or-more hour window between washing, you’ll allow the oil to build up again, and in turn, control those static-y strands. Opt for a shampoo with nourishing ingredients such as keratin and argan oil, Also, try to avoid really hot showers (in winter… we know, sorry) as they can dry out your scalp.

bh recommends: Wella System Professional LuxeOil Keratin Protect Shampoo, Indola INNOVA Keratin Straight Shampoo, Natural World Brazilian Keratin Smoothing Therapy Shampoo, Lush Jason And The Argan Oil

What other tips do you have for combating static in the cooler months?