Hair Solutions for Every Forecast

My hair is a different texture every single day. Curly, wavy, frizzy, or all three at once—you name it, my hair has tried it of its own accord. Genetics is partially to blame, but what it really comes down to is the weather forecast. Hair-wise, if I'm not a slave to it, I pay a dear price.

And since we all know the perils of stepping out sans umbrella or not prepping hair for 80% humidity, here are the simple tricks every woman can use to keep bad hair days at bay. 

The forecast:

Retire your hair tools. Think of it as an excuse to sleep in for another 30 minutes, because anytime you spend straightening or curling your hair will be wasted.

Be careful with what/how much product you use.  It can be a catch-22, because you want to prep your hair, but you don't want to go overboard. We recommend a serum like John Frieda Frizz Ease Miraculous Recovery Serum ($8.99) (opens in new tab) or a light hairspray such as Living Proof No Frizz Weightless Styling Spray ($26)  (opens in new tab)but used sparingly.

Don't brush your hair after the fact. As tempting as it may be to right what the rain has wronged, brushing out your hair will only make it worse. You can lightly tousle it or even run your fingers through it if there are tangles, but now's the time to embrace your natural texture.

If you're feeling bold, embrace the wet look. Using your hands, slick your hair back with a non-hardening hair gel like L'Oreal Paris Studio Light Headed Gel ($3.97) (opens in new tab). Editors' Note: This will look even better with dirty hair.

The forecast:

Prep begins in the shower. Since certain times of year (ahem, summer) are prone to humidity, it's worthwhile to invest in a shampoo and conditioner that targets just that. Try the TRESemme Climate Control (opens in new tab)  (opens in new tab)range, which works to hydrate and strengthen hair with Keratin and olive oil so that it can withstand the elements.

Braid your hair. Want an 100% guarantee that frizz doesn't have a fighting chance? Pretty plaits to the rescue! Try a taut fishtail braid or double French braid updo.

Embrace the puffiness. In case you haven't noticed, puffy hair is in (opens in new tab). Own it.

The forecast:

Wear your hair up. Sigh, we know, but you'll be relieved of so much hair trauma. Not to mention you'll look super chic if instead of just throwing your hair up in a ponytail or messy bun, you opt for a polished top knot or cool chignon.

If you wear it down, wear a hat. You'll not only look après-ski chic, but you can easily tuck your hair 'neath your topper when the snow's coming down hard. 

Use a styling cream. If you're determined to rescue your texture, it's best to opt for a styling cream that will smooth it out. We love Moroccan Hydrating Styling Cream for All Hair Types ($33.40) (opens in new tab) because let's face it, you're working with 450,687 different textures. Bonus: It'll also help to repel frizz when you have to brave the snow again.

The forecast:

When you're outside, tie it up. On a blustery day, the best solution to salvaging a precious blow-out is tying it back. The key is not to do it too tight and to use a plastic clip or crease-free hair ties like these Goody Ouchless Ribbon Elastics ($3.99) (opens in new tab). 

Embrace the mussed-up look. If the wind had its way with your hair, it could actually be a blessing in disguise. The bedhead look is more coveted than ever, and if you need more proof, look no further than this messy hair inspo (opens in new tab).

Try an accessory. You can easily wind-proof your 'do with a headband or a hair clip to control the shorter pieces in the front.

The forecast:

Use extra product. Cold weather hair static is caused by lack of moisture. To compensate, and weigh hair down, use a versatile styling cream like Bumble and Bumble's BB Styling Creme ($26) (opens in new tab).

Keep dryer sheets in your pocket. The same way they cut down on static in your washing machine, Bounty Outdoor Fresh Dryer Sheets (opens in new tab) ($5.49) can be used to smooth out the strands that have gone rogue.

You should also check out:

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Is 'Fifty Shades of Grey' the New Runway Inspiration? (opens in new tab)