GEAR LOVE: COLD WEATHER HAIR CARE

11/2/2017

THE HAIR OF SWIMMERS, RUNNERS, WALKERS, AND EXERCISERS can take a beating any season of the year. With sweating during fitness activities comes the necessity of washing and drying it more frequently. The head heat and moisture generated while running and walking in cold and wet weather while wearing a hat sets it close to the scalp. Not a great look if there are errands to run, people to see, places to go afterwards. So, there’s a lot more manipulation that occurs to make hair more presentable in public after workouts.

I would say the effect of intended exercise on my hair is a major determinant of when I’ll get it done, and somedays if I’ll do it at all. Cold and wet weather does make the hair issue worse for me; others find it’s dry heat.

Regardless, the increased washing and drying in this season make my hair even more difficult to style, which leads to more hair tool and product use. To break this vicious cycle, I have found a great moisturizing hair mask that’s not too pricey and is available at several of the grocery stores I frequent.

Most importantly, my locks are showing so much improvement that my hair stylist asked what product I was using! It’s MAUI MOISTURE, Heal and Hydrate + Shea Butter Hair Mask, for Dry and Damaged Hair. The product description says it’s made with aloe juice as the first ingredient. Other ingredients are coconut and macadamia oils. The label promises there are NO: silicones, parabens, gluten, SLS, sulfated surfactants, or synthetic dyes. There are additional claims that MAUI is a “wholesome beauty” product. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has not reviewed it.

Before swimming in the evenings, I put a bit on as protection against the chlorine and then a swim cap. Afterward I rinse in the shower and put on a bit more. After a morning strength workout, I clean up and shampoo/condition as usual. Of course, each day isn’t the same, but I try to work in an overnight hair mask ‘treatment’ at least once a week. My hair looks so much better that sometimes I can air-dry it and not mess with all the heat and smoothing equipment.

If you have similar issues and don’t wish to spend much on a treatment, try MAUI MOISTURE*. Love another product that works well?.

RUN HAPPY!

*Those who tend to have sensitivities, try a bit on the skin inside of your elbow 24-72 hours in advance (see WebMD patch test directions) . Perhaps read more reviews; some are below.

https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/search.php?query=Maui+Moisture+hair+mask&h=Search#.We9FQkzMw1g

https://www.webmd.com/beauty/skin-reactions#1

https://www.type4naturals.com/5-things-make-love-dislike-maui-moisture/

https://www.influenster.com/reviews/maui-moisture-heal-hydrate-shea-butter-shampoo

3 Comments

Hairtrimmerli link

11/21/2019 06:55:09 am

This hair care shampoo is absolutely an awesome. I had bought this shampoo from amazon after your recommendation.

It leaves my hair super silky and healthy looking. I color my hair, and this product helps keep the ends not so fried looking

Earned Runs

11/21/2019 06:36:43 pm

Happy it works for you! I used it again today after swimming in the gym pool that has chlorinated water.
PKS

Zoe link

2/6/2026 11:25:57 am

This is such a relatable post for anyone who balances a serious fitness routine with hair health! The "vicious cycle" of sweat, frequent washing, and winter weather is a real struggle—especially for swimmers dealing with chlorine. I love your strategy of using the Shea Butter Hair Mask as a pre-swim barrier under your cap; it’s a brilliant way to turn workout time into treatment time. It’s also great to see a budget-friendly, aloe-based option that gets the seal of approval from a professional stylist!

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Author

EARNED RUNS is edited and authored by me, runner and founder. In 1978 I began participating in 10K road races before 5Ks were common. I've been a dietitian, practiced and taught clinical pathology, and been involved with research that utilized pathology. I am fascinated with understanding the origins of disease as well as health and longevity.

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