Why Hair Growth Slows in Winter — How to Kickstart It

Many people notice their hair feels thinner or grows more slowly during autumn and winter. It isn’t simply perception — seasonal factors can influence the hair growth cycle and hair health. This article explains the science behind winter slowdown and gives a clear, practical routine you can follow to support stronger, faster-growing hair through colder months.

Why hair growth can slow in winter

Hair growth follows a cycle of anagen (growth), catagen (transition) and telogen (rest/shedding). Several environmental and lifestyle changes in winter can shift that balance or make shedding more noticeable:

• Reduced daylight and lower vitamin D: Shorter days reduce sun exposure. Vitamin D influences hair follicle cycling and low levels have been linked to hair thinning in some studies.
• Colder air and low humidity: Dry indoor and outdoor air strips moisture from hair and scalp, making strands brittle and prone to breakage so hair appears to grow more slowly.
• Indoor heating: Central heating further dries skin and hair, irritating the scalp and exacerbating flaking or sensitivity.
• Layered clothing and friction: Wool scarves, high collars and hats create mechanical friction that can lead to breakage around the hairline and nape.
• Diet and seasonal routine changes: Less time outdoors can mean lower activity and dietary shifts — less fresh produce or hydration can affect hair quality.
• Stress and illness: Year-end pressures and winter colds can trigger telogen effluvium (a temporary increase in shedding), which can be mistaken for slowed growth.

Simple scalp and hair care habits to kickstart growth

You can’t change the season, but you can change the way you care for your scalp and hair. These habits protect existing hair and create a healthier environment for new growth.

• Gentle cleansing and scalp care: Use a mild shampoo to remove product build-up and soothe the scalp. Consider a weekly gentle exfoliation (scalp scrub or brush) to improve circulation and unclog follicles.
• Warm (not hot) water: Hot showers strip natural oils; warm water preserves scalp lipids that protect hair and skin barrier function.
• Scalp massage: Daily 2–5 minute massages with fingertips or a soft silicone brush increase blood flow to follicles and can be done with or without a lightweight oil.
• Hydration and conditioning: Use a nourishing conditioner and a weekly deep-conditioning mask to strengthen the hair shaft and reduce breakage.
• Limit heat and harsh styling: Reduce use of high heat from straighteners and hairdryers. When you must use them, apply a heat protectant and use lower temperature settings.
• Protective styling and gentle tools: Choose soft hair ties, avoid tight hairstyles and protect hair from hat friction with a silk or satin scarf lining.

Diet, supplements and medical checks that matter

Nutritional status and health are central. Winter can expose deficiencies more readily — here’s what to consider.

• Protein intake: Hair is mostly protein (keratin). Ensure regular, adequate protein from beans, fish, poultry, eggs or plant proteins.
• Iron and ferritin: Low iron is a common cause of hair shedding. Ask your GP to check ferritin and haemoglobin if you notice unusual thinning.
• Vitamin D: Levels drop in winter; supplementation following NHS guidelines can be helpful, especially if you have limited sun exposure.
• Zinc, B vitamins and omega-3s: These nutrients support scalp health and hair strength. Aim for a balanced diet or discuss targeted supplements with a clinician.
• Avoid over-supplementing: More is not always better — excessive vitamin A, for example, can worsen hair loss. Always check with a GP or pharmacist before starting new supplements.

Practical weekly routine to start this winter

Try this straightforward plan for four to twelve weeks and track changes in texture, breakage and visible regrowth.

• Daily: Gentle scalp massage for 2–5 minutes; micro-spritz with water or leave-in conditioner on dry ends to combat static; swap wool for lined hats where possible.
• 2–3 times a week: Shampoo with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser; condition mid-lengths to ends. Avoid daily washing if your hair is dry — adjust by hair type.
• Once a week: Use a hydrating mask or hot oil treatment on mid-lengths and ends; consider a light scalp exfoliant if you have build-up.
• Monthly: Trim split ends to reduce breakage and help hair look healthier while it grows.

Key Takeaways

• Seasonal changes — less sunlight, lower humidity and indoor heating — can make hair appear to grow more slowly by increasing breakage and shedding.
• Support scalp health through gentle cleansing, regular scalp massage and targeted hydration to improve follicle environment.
• Check nutrition: adequate protein, iron and vitamin D are essential; consult your GP before starting supplements.
• Reduce mechanical and heat damage with protective styling, soft accessories and lower-temperature tools to retain length.
• Consistency matters — a simple, sustainable routine over months will show better results than quick fixes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is slower hair growth in winter permanent?
A: No. Seasonal slowdowns are usually temporary and related to environmental and lifestyle factors. With consistent scalp care and nutrition, hair typically recovers in a few months.

Q: Can I use oils on the scalp in winter?
A: Yes—light oils such as jojoba or grapeseed can help lock in moisture. Use sparingly if you have oily hair and avoid heavy oils that can clog follicles if not washed out regularly.

Q: Should I take vitamin D to help hair growth?
A: Vitamin D supports hair-follicle function; low levels may be linked to thinning. It’s sensible in winter to follow UK health guidance on vitamin D supplementation, and ask your GP for a test if you suspect deficiency.

Q: When should I see a doctor about hair loss?
A: Seek medical advice if you experience sudden, significant shedding, patchy loss, scalp pain, or if lifestyle adjustments and routine care don’t help after a few months. Tests can rule out thyroid, iron or autoimmune causes.

Q: Do hair-growth serums work?
A: Some topical treatments can support scalp health and reduce shedding when used consistently; outcomes vary by ingredient and individual. Focus on proven basics (nutrition, scalp health, minimising damage) before relying solely on serums.