Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more
Given how devoted we are to our central heating systems, it's a shame to discover that they don't love us back - at least, when it comes to our looks.
While it may keep you toasty and warm inside, central heating also plays havoc with your skin and hair, especially when it's alternated with the freezing cold conditions outdoors.
When indoor heating ramps up, the moisture in the air drops drastically. 'When we turn up the heating, humidity inside our homes can drop below 20%. That's drier than the Sahara Desert,' says Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist and Founder of Self London. This can be bad for your complexion because 'the air literally pulls water from the skin, breaking down the lipids that hold the surface barrier together. The result is roughness, redness and that tell-tale winter tightness.'
It's also not great for your hair, with dryness, frizz and scalp flaking all symptoms of the damage central heating can do. However, according to Sam McKnight MBE, the renowned hairdresser famous for working with everyone from Princess Diana to Kate Moss, you can fight back against this common winter problem.
'To combat "central heating hair", you need to keep your hair and scalp hydrated to counteract the drying effects, and keep topping up hydration regularly,' he says. 'It's not a "one fix" thing. It's regular hydration and moisture, and there are many ways to deliver hydration to hair.'
People often forget the skin on their scalp, even while spending a fortune on creams and lotions for their faces. However, according to McKnight 'it's the foundation for healthy hair', and should be a major focus come winter. 'A good scalp treatment helps to promote a healthy micro biome, rebalance oil production, soothe irritation, and nourish leaving the scalp able to take in nutrients,' he says. 'Use a scalp oil and work it into the scalp with a massage motion to encourage blood flow, oxygenating the follicles to encourage healthier, more resilient hair growth. Everyone could use a scalp treatment.'
In terms of a haircare routine, McKnight recommends the following:
- A scalp oil that nourishes and promotes a healthy microbiome is essential. Apply to the scalp for 10 minutes before washing your hair.
- A rich shampoo and conditioner for regular cleansing, giving shine, preventing frizz, fluff and static, and softness and manageability.
- A regular treatment, such as a mask that deeply hydrates and rebuilds bonds.
- When heat styling, use a protective spray to preserve moisture, which keeps hair smoother and less prone to static.
Products we recommend to combat central heating hair
- Hair by Sam McKnight Pure Genius Scalp Oil - £36
- Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo - £24.80 (was £31)
- Moroccanoil Treatment Light - £38.50
- Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Hair Bandage Balm - £33.40
- Living Proof Perfect hair Day™ High-Shine Gloss