Why Your Hair Needs Protein More Than Your Muscles This Winter

“Winter is when I remind my clients that beauty really does start from within.” Danielle Louise at  Fresha Marketplace.

When temperatures drop, so does our hair and skin health. Between cold winds, central heating and a lack of sunlight, even the best beauty routines can start to feel like they’re working against us,
but according to hairstylist on the Fresha Marketplace, Danielle Louise, the secret to repairing winter dryness starts in the kitchen, not the salon chair.

“You can have the best products in the world, but if your body’s dehydrated or lacking nutrients, it’ll always show through your hair and skin,” says Danielle. “Winter is when I remind my clients that beauty really does start from within.”

Below, Danielle shares the six foods and nutrients she swears by for healthy hair and glowing skin through the colder months.

Add half an avocado to lunch or drizzle olive oil over roasted veg — it makes a noticeable difference to skin texture and shine.

Avocado & Olive Oil – The Ultimate Moisture Duo

“Both are rich in vitamin E and healthy fats, which protect and repair the skin barrier,” says Danielle. “I tell clients to add half an avocado to lunch or drizzle olive oil over roasted veg — it makes a noticeable difference to skin texture and shine.”

Salon tip: Look for nourishing treatments made with avocado or argan oil to mimic those effects externally.

Oily Fish – Shine from the Inside Out

Salmon and eggs are a brilliant combination for hair strength and extra shine.

“Salmon, mackerel and sardines are full of omega-3s, which hydrate the scalp and boost elasticity,” she explains. “If you’re plant-based, chia or flax seeds are a great swap. Within a few weeks, you’ll see fewer flakes and more natural shine.”

Vitamin C-Rich Foods – Your Winter Brighteners

“Citrus fruits, berries and red peppers all help boost collagen and repair dull, dry skin,” says Danielle. “Clients are often surprised that vitamin C is just as important for hair as it is for skin; it helps prevent breakage and keeps your colour looking fresh.”

Protein – The Building Block of Strong Hair

“Hair is mostly protein, so you have to feed it,” says Danielle. “Eggs, Greek yoghurt and lentils are easy ways to keep strands strong through the season, especially if you’re heat-styling a lot.”

Herbal teas help to up your water intake in the winter which keeps hair feeling hydrated.

Iron & Zinc – For Growth and Strength

“If your hair feels weaker or sheds more in winter, you might be low in iron or zinc,” she says. “I recommend spinach, pumpkin seeds or lean red meat once a week to support growth and prevent breakage.”

Water & Herbal Teas – The Simplest Fix of All

“Most people drink less water in winter, but dehydration is the number one cause of dullness,” says Danielle. “Swap cold water for warm herbal teas — chamomile or rooibos keep hydration levels up without caffeine.”