Why Your Hair Grows Slower in Winter — and What To Do

Notice your hair feels slower to grow once the weather turns? You’re not imagining it. Many people experience a winter growth lull and increased dryness, which can make progress feel stagnant. Here’s what’s going on beneath the surface — and the practical, science-informed steps you can take to keep hair growing strong through the colder months.

The winter slowdown: what’s really happening to your hair?

Hair growth follows a cyclical pattern: anagen (growth), catagen (transition) and telogen (resting) before shedding. Several winter-specific factors can nudge this cycle to feel slower or less productive:

• Shorter daylight hours and more time indoors may reduce vitamin D from sunlight. Vitamin D helps regulate normal hair follicle cycling, so low levels can coincide with sluggish growth for some people.
• Cold temperatures cause vasoconstriction, meaning blood vessels narrow. Less circulation to the scalp can mean fewer nutrients reaching follicles, which may dampen growth momentum.
• Dry indoor heating and icy wind sap moisture from the hair shaft and scalp. Hair that’s brittle snaps more easily, giving the impression it’s not growing when it’s actually breaking.
• Seasonal habits shift: we move less, drink less water, and often eat fewer fresh, fibre-rich, micronutrient-dense foods. All of this can reduce the raw materials your hair needs to thrive.
• Seasonal shedding patterns are common. Many people notice increased fall in late autumn into winter. While this is a normal cycle for lots of individuals, it can make growth feel slower overall.

It’s worth remembering that hair still grows in winter — typically around 1 cm a month on average — but the balance of breakage, dryness, and lifestyle changes can mask that progress. A focused routine helps you keep every millimetre you earn.

Your winter growth routine: simple, consistent, effective

The aim is twofold: nourish the follicle and protect the fibre. Commit to the steps below for at least 8–12 weeks to see meaningful change.

• Scalp-first cleansing: Wash regularly enough to keep the scalp clear (2–3 times weekly for most hair types; adjust to your needs). Build-up can block a fresh, comfortable environment for growth.
• Four-minute massage: After applying a lightweight scalp serum or simply in the shower with conditioner, massage your scalp for around 4 minutes daily. Gentle circular motions can support circulation and relaxation, which helps counter seasonal stress.
• Condition deeply: Use a rinse-out conditioner every wash and a richer mask once weekly. Look for moisture-binding ingredients and balance with protein if your hair feels limp or overly soft.
• Seal in hydration: Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair and finish with a light oil on mid-lengths and ends to reduce moisture loss. Focus on the canopy and ends where friction is highest.
• Lower the heat, up the protection: Choose the lowest effective heat setting for dryers and tools. Always use heat protectant. Air-dry 50–70% before blow-drying to minimise exposure.
• Protective styling: Try low-tension buns, braids or twists and protective styles that tuck ends away. Alternate styles to avoid stress in the same spots.
• Night care: Swap to a silk or satin pillowcase or use a bonnet/scarf to curb friction and moisture loss while you sleep.
• Hydration habits: Keep a reusable bottle nearby and aim for regular sips throughout the day. Herbal teas count toward fluid intake and are winter-friendly.
• Nutrition check-in: Consistent protein, iron-rich foods, healthy fats and a rainbow of veg support normal hair growth. If you suspect deficiency (especially vitamin D or iron), speak to your GP about testing before supplementing.
• Move for circulation: Brisk walks, yoga flows or light strength training a few times a week help overall blood flow — your scalp included.

Consistency beats intensity. Small, repeatable actions — especially scalp massage, gentle cleansing, and regular hydration — add up over the season.

Smart treatments and trims: building resilience in winter

Think of winter as a preservation season: you’re protecting what grows so it stays intact.

• Micro-trims: Taking 0.5–1 cm off every 8–12 weeks helps prevent splits from creeping up the shaft, so you retain length despite dry weather.
• Scalp exfoliation, lightly: If you experience build-up or flaking, a gentle scalp exfoliation every 2–4 weeks can help create a fresher environment. Keep it mild and avoid harsh scrubbing on sensitive scalps.
• Humidify your space: Indoor humidity of around 40–50% reduces static and brittleness. A humidifier or a bowl of water near radiators can help.
• Mind your hats: Wool is warm but can be abrasive. Line beanies with silk/satin or choose softer knits to reduce friction and frizz.
• Mindful detangling: Detangle on damp hair with slip, starting at the ends and moving upward. Slow detangling saves more strands than any growth hack.

Professional services can complement your home routine. A consultation for scalp health, a targeted conditioning treatment, or advice on protective styles for your hair type can set you up for winter success. Keep expectations grounded: genuine growth takes time, but you can immediately reduce breakage and dryness.

Myths, mistakes and what to avoid

• “Hats cause hair loss” — not inherently. Tight, rough hats can increase friction and tug at roots, but choosing soft, well-fitted styles prevents problems and keeps hair protected from the elements.
• Over-washing vs under-washing: Washing too frequently with harsh formulas can strip moisture; washing too little can worsen scalp build-up. The right cadence is the one that keeps your scalp comfortable and hair manageable.
• Too much oil on the scalp: Oils can seal moisture but don’t hydrate on their own. Heavy use on the scalp can trap build-up; reserve oils mainly for mid-lengths and ends unless your scalp tolerates them well.
• Protein overload or drought: All moisture and no strength can leave hair floppy; all protein and no hydration can make it brittle. Alternate light protein and moisture masks according to how your hair feels.
• Expecting instant results: Follicles operate on months-long timelines. Most people see meaningful changes in 8–12 weeks when habits are consistent.

Key Takeaways

• Winter doesn’t stop hair growth, but colder, drier conditions and lifestyle shifts can make progress look slower or feel stalled.
• Support your scalp with regular cleansing and four-minute massages to encourage a healthy environment for growth.
• Hydration, protein-rich meals, and checking potential nutrient gaps (via your GP) underpin healthy hair through winter.
• Protect what you grow: reduce heat, use leave-in hydration, sleep on silk/satin, and try protective styles with low tension.
• Focus on length retention now. With consistent care, you’ll see stronger, longer hair as spring approaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does hair actually grow slower in winter?
Average hair growth remains close to 1 cm a month, but reduced sunlight, lower scalp circulation and increased breakage can make net progress feel slower.

How long until I notice improvement with a winter routine?
Allow 8–12 weeks for visible changes. Breakage reduction and better hydration can feel immediate, but length retention and density cues take longer.

Should I take vitamin D for hair growth?
Vitamin D supports normal follicle cycling. If you suspect deficiency, ask your GP about testing first. Supplement only on medical advice tailored to your needs.

Will wearing hats damage my hair?
Soft, well-fitted hats are fine and protect hair from harsh weather. To minimise friction, choose smoother linings or add a satin scarf under wool beanies.

How often should I wash my hair in winter?
Enough to keep the scalp comfortable and clear — often 2–3 times a week, but adjust to your hair type, activity level, and scalp condition.

Is scalp massage really helpful?
Regular, gentle massage can support circulation and relaxation. Over weeks, it complements a healthy routine and may aid length retention by promoting a balanced scalp environment.

What’s the best way to prevent breakage?
Keep hair hydrated, reduce heat, detangle slowly with slip, protect ends in low-tension styles, and micro-trim to stop splits travelling.