Cold-Weather Hair Helpers

Is your hair standing on end? To prevent static, keep your mane moisturized, says Mario Russo, owner of Salon Mario Russo, in Boston. Avoid products with alcohol, such as hairsprays. If your hair is normal to thick, try a moisturizing styling cream such as Salon Selectives Loosely Defined Styling Creme ($2.99) or Mario Russo Miracle Styling Cream ($24.50; to order, call 866-654-8367). For fine hair, try a hydrating foam, such as L.A. Looks Mega Volume Mousse ($2.29). Need a quick fix during the day? Run damp hands through hair to rehydrate and help tame frizz. Or rub a fabric-softener sheet over hair to neutralize any electric charge.

Getting flaky? "What you may think is dandruff could be dry scalp," says Hilary Baldwin, MD, associate professor of dermatology at the State University of New York at Brooklyn. Dandruff is triggered by a fungus that causes the scalp to overproduce greasy scales. Dry scalp, caused by lack of moisture, will itch with powdery particles, not the bigger, white flakes associated with dandruff. To avoid dehydration, keep your home cool. Use a humidifier at night to add moisture to the air. Baldwin also suggests shampooing less and switching to a richer conditioner. Whether you have dandruff or dry scalp, try a shampoo and conditioner with zinc, which kills dandruff-causing fungus and also soothes dry scalp, such as Head & Shoulders shampoos and conditioners ($3.99).

Does your hat leave you flat? "To avoid hat hair, invest in a newsboy-style cap," says Joelle, senior stylist at the Avon Salon & Spa in New York City. "You can pull it down over your ears and the fuller top won't crush your style." If you just can't give up tighter, knit hats, follow Joelle's tired-tress tips. Use a vent brush to lift strands and take out tangles without adding static. Joelle also suggests roughing up roots with wet hands to reactivate styling products.