Between the crisp evening air, aggressive air conditioning, hard water, and a strong UV index, haircare needs an overhaul this season. For frizz and dryness that feels inexplicably more than summer, here’s a routine that works with the region, not against it.

1. Begin at the Scalp

Treat the scalp like skin by using gentle cleansing, hydrating shampoos, and moisturizing conditioners that don’t strip the scalp of its natural oils. Monthly head massages with hot oil can not only help relieve stress but can also invigorate the roots and promote healthy hair growth.

Clinics like Harklinikken in the UAE lean into customized scalp care and winter-specific hydration strategies. Skin tonics such as Aesop’s Sage & Cedar Scalp Treatment help soothe flaky skin.

2. Wash smarter not more

If you style often, add a weekly clarifying wash to remove product and mineral buildup, which is
a common GCC issue. Then always follow with a conditioner or mask for bond support and
moisture. Olaplex’s bond-focused masks are widely available in the UAE and make sense for
colour-treated or heat-styled hair.

3. Winter leave-in serum and sealing oil

Leave-in conditioner is the step that stops ‘nice hair’ from collapsing by 3 pm, especially in air- conditioned offices. OUAI’s Leave-In Conditioner is a popular UAE staple for that reason. Finish with a lightweight oil on ends only to seal moisture (the goal is shine, not slip).

Another product that makes a dramatic difference is Slickhair Oil, which hydrates without heaviness, softens stubborn strands, and adds a lightweight, high-shine finish.

4. Heat is inevitable, but make it easier on your hair

If you’re blow-drying more in winter, upgrade your tool and your protectant. Dyson’s Supersonic has been positioned as a pro-level, intelligent heat-and-airflow approach for smoother styling.

On the product side, K18’s newer launches signal where the category is headed: biotech-driven repair and clean-refresh products that don’t choke the scalp.

5. A GCC-specific trick

If you work out or commute, scalp odour and limp roots can show up quickly in winter. New-gen
dry shampoos such as K18’s AirWash are designed to tackle oil and odour while keeping hair
bouncy.

The best winter routine is the one that feels boringly consistent: scalp care, weekly mask, daily
leave-in, and heat protection on autopilot. In the GCC, that’s what turns ‘surviving winter hair’
into excellent hair.