There are few people I would trust with my hair. Sofia Baig is the only trichologist. Based in Mayfair, the Trichologist and Hair Health Expert has the kind of luscious, shiny, long hair that serves as a walking advertisement but it is her knowledge, warmth and wonderfully calming presence that inspire lasting confidence. She is a joy to be around, bringing a sense of ease to a subject that can feel deeply personal, particularly when concerns about shedding or thinning begin to take hold. With Sofia, you feel listened to, understood and looked after. You are in safe hands, quite literally.
With more than a decade of experience, Sofia combines a science-based approach with an understanding of the emotional impact of hair loss. Her work considers the individual behind the hair: their scalp health, daily routine, nutrition and concerns. Bespoke treatments and practical guidance sit at the centre of her approach, with care that feels as personal as it is precise.
As temperatures fall and central heating returns, that expertise becomes particularly welcome. Between dry scalps, increased tangling and lengths that seem to lose their lustre overnight, winter can demand a rethink of even the most established routine. Here, Sofia explains what our hair actually needs through the colder months, which habits deserve attention and why healthy, glossy hair begins with understanding your scalp.
What actually happens to our hair and scalp as the weather turns colder, and which autumn/winter changes tend to cause the most damage?
During the winter months, both scalp comfort and hair health can be affected. Cold outdoor air, low humidity and indoor heating can contribute to dryness. Frequent heat styling and friction can also leave hair more vulnerable to damage.
Hair is made up of keratinised cells, and its outer cuticle acts as a protective layer. When this layer becomes damaged, the surface becomes rougher, leaving hair more prone to breakage, split ends and loss of shine. The key is to protect the scalp barrier while maintaining the strength and condition of the hair.
Central heating, cold air and constant temperature changes can all be drying. What is the best way to protect the scalp barrier and prevent hair from becoming brittle or dull?
Maintaining a healthy scalp barrier and protecting the hair lengths require slightly different approaches. I recommend keeping your routine simple and consistent by focusing on cleansing, hydration and nourishment.
Gentle cleansing helps maintain a healthy scalp environment, while a targeted scalp serum can help hydrate the skin and support its natural barrier. For the lengths and ends, nourishing conditioners and masks help smooth the cuticle, reduce friction and improve manageability. Combining these with heat protection helps minimise breakage and maintain softness and shine throughout winter.
Many people notice more shedding in autumn. Is seasonal hair shedding genuinely a thing, and how can you tell when it should be investigated?
Seasonal shedding is something some people experience during autumn, although scientific evidence for seasonal shedding in humans is limited. Hair shedding occurs during the telogen phase, also known as the resting phase of the hair growth cycle. When more follicles enter this phase around the same time, shedding can become more noticeable.
Seasonal shedding, when it occurs, is generally diffuse rather than patchy. If shedding persists, your parting widens or you notice visible changes in hair density, I would recommend seeking professional advice to help identify the underlying cause.
How should we adapt our washing routine in colder months? Should we shampoo less often, change the water temperature or introduce more scalp-focused products?
How often you wash your hair should depend on your scalp’s needs rather than the season. An oily scalp may require more frequent cleansing to remove excess sebum, sweat and product build-up. A dry or sensitive scalp may benefit from a mild, fragrance-free shampoo and a hydrating scalp serum to support the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Use lukewarm water rather than excessively hot water, which can contribute to scalp dryness and sensitivity.
Conditioning the mid-lengths and ends helps smooth the cuticle, improve manageability and reduce breakage. I would also avoid excessive heat styling and harsh brushing, as both can weaken the hair and increase the risk of damage.
Hats, scarves and heavier clothing can create friction, static and flatness. What are your best tips for protecting hair while still keeping warm?
The main concern with hats and scarves is friction, which can damage the cuticle and increase the risk of breakage, particularly in fine, fragile or chemically treated hair. I recommend applying a lightweight leave-in conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends to help smooth and protect the hair.
I would opt for hats with a soft lining and avoid tight hairstyles that create tension or repeated rubbing against the fabric. It’s also best to ensure your hair is fully dry before covering it. These small adjustments can help minimise friction and maintain the hair’s strength throughout winter.
Which ingredients would you actively look for in autumn and winter haircare? Can any popular oils, masks or scalp treatments make matters worse?
In winter, I focus on protecting the hair and maintaining scalp health. I recommend a weekly nourishing mask containing proteins and conditioning agents to help improve softness and reduce breakage. As a pre-shampoo routine, I recommend cold-pressed coconut oil applied to the mid-lengths and ends. It can help reduce protein loss from the hair during washing.
Avoid excessive product build-up and be mindful that fragranced products or overuse of exfoliating treatments can irritate sensitive scalps.
My Scalp Detox Treatment is one of my most popular treatments at Gielly Green in Marylebone. I create a bespoke protocol focused on scalp microbiome health, hair condition and reducing inflammation.
Is going outside with damp or wet hair actually damaging in cold weather, or is that largely a myth? And what is the healthiest way to dry hair during winter?
Going outside with wet hair in winter is largely a myth when it comes to cold weather damaging the hair itself. However, wet hair is more delicate and more prone to breakage because water temporarily alters the hair’s structure.
I recommend using a microfibre towel to gently absorb excess water, followed by a hairdryer on a moderate heat setting. Avoid excessive heat to help protect the cuticle and minimise breakage.
If you could give someone a simple five-step autumn/winter routine to keep their hair healthy, strong and glossy until spring, what would it include?
- Cleanse according to your scalp’s needs, using a gentle shampoo to remove excess sebum, sweat and product build-up.
- Condition after every wash and use a nourishing hair mask weekly to maintain softness, smoothness and shine.
- Protect your hair from excessive heat styling and minimise friction from hats and scarves to help prevent breakage.
- Incorporate regular scalp massage, using your fingertips or a sandalwood comb to stimulate scalp circulation and support a healthy scalp environment.
- Support hair health from within by staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet rich in protein, iron and other essential nutrients.
Healthy winter hair is less about buying more products and more about understanding what your scalp and hair actually need.
@sofiabaig__ | giellygreen.co.uk
42-44 George St, London W1U 7ES
