From frigid temperatures to bone-chilling winds and harsh storms, winter weather is full of dangers that can wreak havoc on your hair’s health and style. Fortunately, just because seasonal changes are unavoidable doesn’t mean that you should give up and throw your hair up in a bun until balmy spring weather makes a comeback. Stocking your beauty cabinet with the smart winter must-haves below can help you keep your locks smooth, strong and shiny through the coldest days of the year.

Fortifying Shampoo

Your light summer shampoo probably isn’t strong enough to combat damage and dryness that can be caused by severe winter weather. Although a shampoo is technically used to remove dirt and buildup, it can play a key role in preparing your hair to handle all types of harsh outdoor elements. For ultimate protection, look for moisturizing formulas with nutrient-enriched blends. If your scalp feels especially dry during the winter season, pick up an anti-dandruff shampoo to ward off flakes. Since powerful anti-dandruff cleansers can contain drying chemicals, use yours with every other wash and only when necessary.

Hair Conditioner

Relentless winter winds can leave your hair feeling dry and brittle. To prevent damage and lock in 24-hour moisture protection, look for hair conditioning treatments with long-lasting staying power. Leave-in conditioners can do wonders for keeping frizz under control on thicker manes. If you have thinner locks, use a deep conditioning treatment twice a week to banish split ends and revitalize your scalp for faster hair growth.

Alcohol-Free Styling Products

Do your smooth summer strands turn into a stiff, frizzy nightmare as soon as winter weather hits? Alcohol, commonly used in over-the-counter styling creams and sprays, could be the culprit behind the drastic change. Since hair is especially susceptible to dryness and flyaways during the colder months of the year, you want to use nourishing products that seal in moisture and fight static. If sleek and smooth hair is on your winter wish list, make the switch to alcohol-free styling serums with silicone or essential oils.

Heat Protectant

When you already have a busy schedule, letting your hair air dry is rarely an option. While you can get away with styling your hair wet in the summer, using heat tools becomes unavoidable once winter rolls around. Over time, exposure to concentrated heat can dry your hair out and cause breakage. To minimize the risk of damage, coat your wet locks with a lightweight heat protectant before using hair dryers and other heat styling tools. For an extra bonus, look for heat-activated serums that add shine and tame frizz.