Ah, the joys of summer – the sun-kissed days, the carefree beach escapades, and the soothing sense of relaxation. But amidst this radiant season of outdoor adventures, our hair silently battles its own unique challenges. The intense sun, hot temperatures, humidity, and exposure to pool chemicals can all damage our hair, making it dull and lifeless.
Fear not, for I am here to be your hair’s ally! Drawing upon my 17 years of experience as a hairstylist and understanding the heartfelt desire to preserve your hair’s health and beauty, I’ve assembled a treasure trove of invaluable tips. Imagine returning from a sun-soaked vacation with your hair as vibrant and supple as ever, rather than dry and lifeless. This guide is born out of the realization that a few proactive measures can make a world of difference, preventing the dreaded post-vacation hair aftermath.
So, let’s embark on a journey to nurture your hair throughout the summer. With insights from years of tending to my clients’ tresses, I’m excited to share these strategies that will safeguard your hair’s resilience and radiance, ensuring it shines just as brilliantly as the sun itself. Together, we’ll unlock the secrets to keeping your hair strong, vibrant, and breathtakingly beautiful in the face of summer’s challenges.
1. Shield Your Strands from the Sun
Have you ever felt the sting of a sunburn on your scalp, right where you part your hair? It can make brushing or even washing your hair an uncomfortable ordeal. It’s a spot we often forget to protect with sunscreen. Just as you guard your skin from the sun’s harsh UV rays, your hair and scalp deserve the same level of attention. Prolonged sun exposure can result in dryness, breakage, and even fading of hair color. Remember to shield your hair from direct sunlight by opting for a hat, a stylish scarf, or other head coverings. If that’s not your style, explore hair products that come with UV filters. This easy measure can significantly contribute to preserving the health and vibrancy of your locks.
2. Hydration is Your Hair’s Best Friend
The scorching heat of summer can dehydrate your hair, leaving it parched and prone to damage. Hydration is your hair’s best friend during this time. Opt for a hydrating shampoo and conditioner duo explicitly designed to lock in that much-needed moisture. Consider incorporating a weekly deep conditioning treatment to provide your hair with an extra dose of hydration. For those who lean towards the natural approach, venture into the realm of DIY hair masks. Ingredients like coconut oil, aloe vera, and honey can work wonders in breathing new life into your locks. Treat your hair to a rejuvenating mask – it’s a little luxury with significant benefits. You can read our article about the 5 natural remedies for your hair in the kitchen.
And here’s a budget-friendly trick that never disappoints: pre-oiling your hair. Just 15 minutes before your wash, generously apply oil to your hair. This pre-treatment acts as a shield, preventing excessive drying during the washing process. It’s a small investment of time that pays off in terms of preserving your hair’s natural moisture.
3. Embrace Protective Hairstyles
Styling your hair in protective hairstyles is a win-win during the summer. Not only do these styles keep your hair off your neck and face, providing relief from the heat, but they also shield your hair from potential damage caused by friction and sun exposure. Opt for chic braids, twists, buns, or ponytails. These hairstyles not only look trendy but also serve as a defense mechanism for your precious strands.
4. Fight Frizz with the Right Products
Ah, the humidity of summer – a relentless adversary that can transform your carefully styled hair into a frizz frenzy. But there’s a secret weapon: anti-frizz hair products. These gems are tailored to tackle unruly frizz, ensuring your mane remains beautifully sleek and effortlessly manageable even in the most humid conditions.
Navigate the hair care aisle with an eye out for products explicitly labeled as anti-frizz. Serums, leave-in conditioners, and hair oils are your allies in this battle. These formulations are designed to rein in frizz without the heavy, greasy aftermath. Instead, they create a shield that locks in moisture while repelling excess humidity. Your hair will feel weightless, and you’ll have newfound confidence knowing that your locks are tamed and under control.
5. Rinse After Swimming
Who can resist the refreshing allure of the pool or the ocean on a hot day? Taking a refreshing dip is not only a way to beat the heat but also a gateway to a world of relaxation. However, as inviting as the water may seem, it’s essential to remember that both chlorinated and salt water can pose a challenge to your hair’s health.
As you emerge from the water, your hair might carry remains of the pool’s chlorine or the ocean’s salt. These substances, if left unattended, have the potential to wreak your locks. Chlorine, often used to keep pools clean, can be harsh and strip your hair of its natural oils. Likewise, the salt in seawater has a dehydrating effect, leading to dryness and brittleness.
But worry not, for a straightforward solution awaits you: the post-swim rinse. Make it a ritual to rinse your hair with clean, fresh water thoroughly right after. This uncomplicated step works wonders in washing away the lingering chlorine or salt, effectively safeguarding your hair from potential damage. By rinsing, you’re giving your hair a clean slate, free from the harmful substances that could otherwise cause dryness.
6. Rinse Before Taking a Dive
Imagine your hair as a thirsty sponge, ready to soak up whatever comes its way. If that happens to be chlorinated or saltwater, it can spell trouble for your hair’s health. Just as a sponge can only hold a limited amount of liquid, your hair has its limits too. Once it’s saturated, it can’t take in anymore.
This is where the pre-swim rinse comes to the rescue. Picture this: before you plunge into the pool take a moment to saturate your hair with clean water. By doing so, you’re essentially filling up your hair’s “sponge” with the good stuff – water that’s free from chlorine or salt.
When your hair is already full of clean water, there’s less room for it to absorb the damaging elements present in chlorinated or saltwater. It creates a protective barrier, reducing the amount of chlorine or salt water that can enter your hair’s cuticles. As a result, your hair is less likely to become dry, brittle, or discolored.
Once you’ve enjoyed your aquatic adventure, don’t forget the post-swim routine. Rinse your hair thoroughly to remove any traces of chlorine or saltwater. Then, show your hair some extra love with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. This dynamic duo works together to replenish any moisture lost during your swim and restore your hair’s natural balance.
By incorporating both the pre-swim and post-swim rinses, you’re giving your hair the best of both worlds – protection and recovery. So, before you make that splash, remember to drench your hair in clean water. Your hair will thank you for it by staying strong, radiant, and ready for all the sunny summer adventures.
7. Trim for Triumph
Summer is the perfect time for a trim! Regular haircuts help get rid of split ends and prevent them from traveling up the hair shaft. Additionally, a fresh trim can invigorate your hair, making it easier to manage and style. If you’re looking to embrace beachy waves, a trim can also enhance the texture and movement of your hair. If you would like to read more about how often you should trim your hair read here.
8. Stay Hydrated from the Inside Out
Healthy hair starts with taking care of your body on the inside. When it’s hot outside in the summer, it’s really important to drink enough water to stay hydrated. This doesn’t just help you feel good, but it also makes your hair look good. Just like a plant needs water to grow, your hair needs hydration to shine.
So, on sunny days, keep a water bottle with you. Take sips of water all day long to keep your body and hair happy. Eating watery fruits like watermelon and veggies like cucumber can also help. They’re yummy and good for your hair too.
Remember, having great hair isn’t just about what you put on it. It’s also about giving your body the right things on the inside. Your hair will show off its shiny and healthy look.
9. Minimize Heat Styling
Summer invites us to embrace the beauty of our hair’s natural texture. It’s the perfect time to let go of excessive heat styling and allow your hair to shine in its authentic form. Say goodbye to the constant use of curling irons and straighteners that can cause damage over time. Instead, consider experimenting with a variety of heatless hairstyles that not only protect your hair but also add a touch of effortless charm to your summer look.
Braids are a versatile option that can range from simple and elegant to boho-chic. They not only keep your hair secure and out of your face but also create beautiful waves when undone. Buns are another stylish choice, offering a neat and polished look for any occasion. Opt for a messy bun for a carefree vibe or a sleek high bun for a more sophisticated appearance.
If you’re dreaming of those beachy vibes, try out effortless beachy waves without using any heat. After washing your hair, twist it into sections and let it air dry. When you untwist them, you’ll have natural-looking waves that evoke a relaxed summer feel.
By giving your hair a break from heat styling, you’re not only preventing potential damage but also allowing your hair to regain its natural strength and vitality. Embracing your hair’s natural texture enhances its overall health and radiance, giving you a fresh and breezy look that’s perfect for the sunny days ahead.
10. After-Sun Care
After a day in the sun, it’s a good idea to use a clarifying shampoo. This special shampoo helps to get rid of any leftover stuff from sunscreen, saltwater, or pool chemicals. It’s like giving your hair a fresh start.
After you’ve used the clarifying shampoo, use a nourishing conditioner. I would even prefer to use a hair mask after clarifying shampoo. This conditioner is like a treat for your hair. It puts back the moisture that the sun, salt, and chlorine might have taken away. This moisture helps to keep your hair healthy and full of life. So, think of it as a little spa session for your hair after a sunny day.
Conclusion:
Summer is all about having fun and enjoying the outdoors without worries. These simple tips will help your hair stay strong, colorful, and healthy during this season. Whether it’s protecting your hair from the sun, keeping it hydrated, or choosing the right hairstyles, a little effort can make a big difference. So, go ahead and enjoy your summer while showing off your beautiful hair!
As you dive into your summer activities, remember that your hair needs some extra love due to the sun, heat, and humidity. By using these tips, you’re taking smart steps to make sure your hair stays strong, vibrant, and amazing all summer long. So, let the sun remind you to take good care of your hair, and have a fantastic summer with hair that shines just like the sun!
