Hair expert Fiona O’Connor tells us how to protect our hair from the Irish weather

The cold and damp weather can be murder on your hair.

As it does every year, the changeable Irish weather in January can wreak havoc with our hair and skin if we don’t tweak our beauty regimes to suit! This week we talk to Fiona O’Connor, haircare advisor at Irish beauty e-tailer Millies.ie, to find out what we can do to protect our tresses. Speaking on hair care, Fiona says that winter can be the hardest time to look after your hair as it can be very drying;

"Winter is a great time of the year to increase the moisture levels in our hair as it doesn’t take long for dehydration to occur. I always advise to beat distressed hair to the punch and start hydrating early in the year. Dry hair can easily become brittle or inflexible leading to dull or lacklustre hair, which isn’t a good look for anyone!"

When asked what advice she would give to anyone experiencing dehydrated hair Fiona said; Add in a hair oil.. My personal favourite is the Kerastase Elixer Ultime as it can be used multiple ways to benefit your hair and works really well with other products, often improving their performance. It works as a pre-cleanse to help remove free radicles and increase hydration or as a post styling serum to help seal in shine. Also it’s always a good idea to add an extra treatment to your haircare at this time of year, as central heating and severe weather can really take its toll on the condition of the hair. Olaplex No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask is suitable for all hair types and is extremally nourishing. This recent launch from cult brand Olaplex will both hydrate and strengthen the hair, without a heavy residue. It is also an ideal option for clients looking to avoid certain ingredients like sulfates, gluten and nuts. It’s also vegan friendly! My hair has been crazy dry during the winter months and even though I've tried some of the Olaplex range before I haven't tried their moisture mask yet. Might have to pick up some along with the hair oil recommended and give them a go.