Time for an Oil Change

Oil-infused haircare that restores shine and moisture to dry, winter locks

Winter may be great for cozying up to a fire, but the season can wreak havoc on our hair. Particularly in colder months, most of us tend to have parched skin (thanks to dry, indoor air and frosty outside temperatures), which extends to a mane and scalp that tend to become brittle, flake and easily irritated. The prescription: Tresses need extra TLC, beginning with hydration.

Treat your locks to deep conditioning oil treatments filled with powerful essential oils that restore hair's strength and shine. Incorporating regular, at-home treatments into your routine will help keep hair protected from weather, overstyling and daily damage.

To make sure you're maximizing the benefits of a deep conditioning oil treatment, Marina Perkovic, a technician at hair-and-scalp salon Phyto Universe in New York City, recommends using a treatment at least twice a month. Apply throughout the hair, making sure your mane is evenly saturated (the front top area of the scalp needs extra attention, since the hairline tends to take more abuse from styling and the environment), then clip it up and finish with a hot wrap or towel. Leave the treatment in for at least 20 minutes (for an extra boost, leave it in overnight), then wash and condition. Check out a few of our favorites:

For Traditionalists:
Phyto Huile D'Ales Pre-Shampoo Intense Hydrating Oil Treatment Originally created in 1967, this formula has stood the test of time. It revitalizes hair and scalp with a unique blend of essential oils of sage, lemon, rosemary and juniper berries.

For Naturalists:
Ojon Restorative Hair Treatment
Dry or damaged hair will soak up the healing benefits of this rich oil extracted from the Ojon trees of the Central American rain forests. The highly concentrated treatment is preservative free, and can even double as a leave-in conditioner or cuticle treatment.

Macadamia Natural Oil Healing Oil Treatment
With an earthy, spicy scent, this therapeutic oil absorbs quickly into hair for a silky smooth finish. It helps tame tangles and frizz, adds natural UV protection and can cut down blow-drying time.

For Processed Hair:
Phyto Phytonectar Oil
Color-treated or relaxed hair that needs more proteins to stay healthy will get replenished thanks to a nourishing infusion of sunflower extract, soybean and egg yolk.