Leah LOVES hair. So much so, she dedicated an entire website to it! One of the founders of Hair Everyday and Chief Editor, Leah enjoys reviewing all the hair products and showcasing the best. She believes her most underrated articles are her hair care tips!
Got summer hair problems? Here’s my easy summer hair care routine! Try these tips to get the best hair care in extreme hot weather.
Don’t you just love summer, I sure do. But the thing is, summer can be tough on your hair.
Sure winter comes with its own set of problems like itchiness, dandruff, etc. but the heat and humidity in summer can lead to dryness, frizz, oiliness, and even scalp sunburn.
Which is a pity considering the amount of time we spent outside in the summer seasons.
I found that with all the lazy beach days, sun tanning sessions, and outdoor fun my hair was looking duller, drier and even greasier at the roots.
So I figured out a hair care regime that helps my hair look good and feel healthy in the heat. Here are some tricks I use to keep hair summer-ready, check it out!
Summer Hair Care Guide
I Cover Hair Using Scarves Or Hats
This might not be that well known but the sun is one of the biggest enemies of your hair.
Yup, according to research, UV radiation can cause dryness by removing hair moisture, cause hair color to fade and also lead to weakening of the protein bonds in your tresses.
So it’s a great idea to cover your hair using a wide brimmed hat or a scarf while going out into the sun. And hey, this has the added benefit of keeping your scalp protected from sunburns and sweat.
I often use this as an opportunity to look my stylish best by incorporating some cute hats or brightly-colored scarves into my ensemble.
Remember you can go wild with the print and design of your hats and scarves just remember to make sure the material is breathable. Or else the sweat and heat will be unbearable. Trust me!
I Also Apply Sunscreen To My Scalp
Having a healthy scalp ensures you have healthy hair. After all the follicles and hair roots are on the scalp and this is where all the growth happens.
So having sunburns on the scalp due to prolonged exposure to the sun can further lead to damaged hair.
The sunburns lead to inflammation, redness, itching and other issues that cause hair follicles to weaken by preventing adequate nutrition from reaching them.
UV radiation might also directly impact your hair follicles according to a study, so just be careful.
This is why covering my hair is not enough, especially if I’m going swimming or doing some physical activity that requires me to take my headdress off.
I always use sunscreen for my scalp while leaving home in the summer. My preferred one is the COOLA Organic Scalp Spray & Hair Sunscreen Mist which has SPF 30.
I like it because as the name suggests it’s a hair mist and can be easily applied to the hard to reach areas of the scalp.
Related: Sunburn On The Scalp
I Use An Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse Instead Of Shampoo
Your hair can get really dry in the summers. And shampooing often can worsen this problem. But then what’s the alternative? Not shampooing so often? Heck no!
Anyone who’s lived through a California summer will tell you that’s freaking impossible. The dirt, sweat and grime will be unbearable.
So what’s my solution? Well, I create a natural shampoo of sorts using apple cider vinegar and water.
This solution is acidic enough to act as a natural disinfectant and anti-inflammatory agent. The low pH also matches your scalp’s natural pH. So you don’t have to worry about whether it suits you unlike with shampoos.
I use this rinse in between washes instead of using dry shampoos or leaving my greasy hair be. It is super clarifying and I’ve found it also works wonders in smoothening my hair cuticles and removing frizz. So win-win!
The Heat Styling Tools Are Given A Break
Look, I love curling my hair or adding waves to it just like any other person. But your hair goes through so much during summer heat. I think it’s best to give it a break from heat styling tools as well.
Plus, summer’s the time your tresses are always under a hat or scarf or cap. So any perfectly styled hairstyle is bound to get messed up sooner or later.
So I usually try low-maintenance hairstyles like buns or ponytails during the summer which also does the job of keeping the hair away from my face.
I Always Use Conditioners And Use Hair Masks
Yes, moisturizing your hair isn’t limited to the winter months. Your tresses need more hydration in the summer too.
The only difference is that you’ll need hair masks that both hydrate your hair and condition it. So they should add moisture to your strands and prevent it from leaving your hair’s surface.
One of my favorite hair masks for summer use is the Olaplex Bond Intense Moisture Mask. Its base ingredient is water, so it’s really hydrating and penetrates into the hair shaft easily.
It also helps repair hair damaged due to the constant UV exposure and mineral buildup during your beach vacays.
I also like using lightweight oils like argan or grapeseed as a deep conditioning treatment before showering.
My Hair’s Always Protected While Swimming
Summer for me always equals beaches or pools or theme parks. But did you know that pool water is full of chlorine and seawater filled with natural minerals.
These are not harmful exactly but they can react with your hair in a not-so-pleasant way, especially if you’ve bleached and colored your mane.
I have actually experienced my bleached, blonde hair go green on me due to the chemicals in the pool. And so I’ve learned my lesson.
Never, ever get into the pool without a swimming cap. And if you don’t have one at hand make sure you’ve covered every inch of your hair with moisturizers.
You can use the special moisturizers for swimmers available in the market like the Sheamoisture Gotu Kola & Raspberry Seed Oil Pre-Swim Leave-In Protection. Or you can simply apply a thick coat of coconut oil instead.
Hair Products To Protect Hair During Summer
Certainly! Here is a list of 10 hair products that can help protect your hair during the summer along with a brief explanation of their benefits:
- UV-Protective Hair Spray: These sprays typically contain UV filters that help shield your hair from the damaging effects of the sun’s rays, such as color fading and dryness.
- Leave-In Conditioner: A leave-in conditioner helps to hydrate and nourish your hair, creating a protective barrier against the sun’s drying effects and preventing frizz and breakage.
- Heat Protectant Spray: If you use heat styling tools during the summer, a heat protectant spray is essential. It forms a barrier between your hair and the heat, minimizing damage and maintaining its health.
- Wide-Brimmed Hat: While not a product per se, wearing a wide-brimmed hat provides excellent protection by shielding your hair and scalp from direct sun exposure. It helps prevent UV damage and keeps your hair and scalp cooler.
- Anti-Frizz Serum: Humidity is often high during the summer, leading to frizzy hair. Anti-frizz serums help smooth the hair cuticle, reduce frizz, and keep your hair looking sleek and polished.
- Moisturizing Hair Mask: Regularly using a moisturizing hair mask helps replenish moisture lost due to sun exposure and environmental factors. It restores hydration, strengthens the hair, and improves its overall health and appearance.
- Sea Salt Spray: If you enjoy beachy, textured waves, a sea salt spray is a great option. It adds texture and volume to your hair, providing a natural, tousled look without the need for heat styling.
- Lightweight Hair Oil: A lightweight hair oil, such as argan or jojoba oil, can be used to smooth and protect the hair from heat and environmental damage. It adds shine and nourishment while taming frizz.
- Detangling Spray: Chlorine, saltwater, and wind can lead to tangled hair. Using a detangling spray makes it easier to comb through your hair without causing damage or breakage.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera gel can be used as a natural hair protector and soother. It provides a cooling effect on the scalp, helps combat dryness, and offers some UV protection.
These products help safeguard your hair from the summer elements, such as sun exposure, heat, humidity, and dryness. Remember to choose products that suit your hair type and concerns, and follow the instructions for each product for optimal results.
What is a good hair care routine to follow during the summer?
During the summer, it’s important to adjust your hair care routine to protect your hair from the sun, heat, humidity, and other environmental factors. Here’s a good hair care routine to follow during the summer:
- Protect from UV rays: Before heading out, apply a UV-protective hair spray or wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your hair and scalp from harmful UV rays.
- Rinse with cool water: After swimming in the pool or ocean, rinse your hair with cool water to remove chlorine, salt, and other chemicals. This helps prevent damage and dryness.
- Use a clarifying shampoo: Regularly use a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup and impurities from your hair caused by sweat, sunscreen, and other summer products.
- Moisturize and hydrate: Keep your hair hydrated by using a moisturizing conditioner and a weekly deep conditioning treatment. This helps combat dryness caused by sun exposure and maintains the health and shine of your hair.
- Minimize heat styling: Embrace your natural texture during the summer and reduce heat styling as much as possible. If you need to use heat tools, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand to minimize damage.
- Embrace protective styles: Opt for protective hairstyles such as braids, buns, or updos that help shield your hair from the sun and reduce exposure to the elements. This also helps minimize frizz and tangling.
- Avoid tight hairstyles: Avoid tightly pulling your hair into ponytails or braids as it can lead to breakage and tension on the hairline. Opt for looser styles to reduce stress on the hair.
- Hydrate from within: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Proper hydration helps maintain the health and moisture balance of your hair and scalp.
- Limit exposure to chlorine and saltwater: Before swimming, wet your hair with clean water to minimize its absorption of chlorine or saltwater. Afterward, rinse and condition your hair to remove any residue.
- Protect before styling: Before using styling tools or exposing your hair to the sun, apply a leave-in conditioner or lightweight hair oil to provide an extra layer of protection and hydration.
Remember to listen to your hair’s needs and adjust your routine accordingly. If you have specific concerns or hair conditions, consult with a professional hairstylist or dermatologist for personalized advice and recommendations.
FAQs about Summer Hair Care Guide
How to manage long hair in the summer?
I know a lot of people, especially women, who cut their hair short in the summer to keep it out of the way. I mean I get it, who wants to deal with long, sweaty hair in the middle of the hot season.
But if you’re growing out your tresses and do not want to chop it all off just because of the heat, here are some things you can do to manage long hair in the summer.
Firstly, you can tie it all up in a bun, this is the easiest way to keep long hair away from your face. You can try different bun hairstyles like top knots, mid-rise buns, braided buns, etc.
Secondly, you can section and braid your hair. Long hair doesn’t seem as much of a nuisance if you’re going for multiple braids. You can then easily tie these braids into a ponytail too.
If you’ve got long, layered hair and braids and buns are not an option try wrapping it all up in a turban instead. Just make sure the fabric you use is breathable.
How do I keep my hair moisturized in the summer?
Your hair needs both hydration and conditioning during the summer. This means it isn’t enough to use oils or creams, your hair needs to have sufficient water content in the strands first.
So I suggest using products that are humectants (substances which add moisture to hair) like glycerin, aloe vera, and products containing vitamin B5, panthenol and triglycerides.
You can then use a lightweight occlusive (substances that seal moisture inside hair) to keep all the hydration instead. This includes plant-based oils, shea butter, lanolin, etc.
How can I stop my hair from sweating in the summer?
The best way to keep your hair from sweating too much is by “cooling” down the area through restricting excess blood circulation. This includes using cold water to shower, drinking lots of water so that you’re hydrated, using water-based hair mists or sprays, and by keeping your hair protected from direct sunlight.
Is it necessary to oil hair in summer?
The heat from the sun can leave hair dry and brittle. Also, the UV radiation can cause damage to hair’s protein bonds making it more prone to breakage. So it’s a good idea to use oils to hydrate and moisturize your tresses. You can use lightweight oils like grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, etc. instead of the heavier ones like coconut oil as the former are more appropriate for the hot weather.
Final Thoughts about Summer Hair Care Guide
I love summers!
But the heat, humidity and certain lifestyle habits like swimming and tanning can leave hair in dire straits.
There is an increased chance of exposure to chlorine and salt water from swimming pools and beaches that leaves hair dry and causes mineral buildup.
Also, the sun’s UV rays can fade hair dyes and even cause scalp sunburns in severe cases.
So it’s of utmost importance that you learn how to keep your hair and scalp healthy in the summers to avoid these problems.
Using a hat to shield hair while out in the sun, keeping hair protected while swimming, and making sure they have extra hydration is the golden triangle to healthy hair in the summer.
Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?
The author of this article, Leah Marie Priest has a degree in Cosmetology with years of experience in dealing with hair care, scalp care, and hairstyling. As someone who extensively deals with all kinds of hair textures, products, styling methods and more, hair Leah Marie knows what kind of products and procedures suit each hair type and person. We have also tested these hair products and processes ourselves to provide you an unbiased review about every product. Each of our articles are also reviewed by a team of medical professionals so that you get the most accurate and expert-reviewed information.
Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?
The author of this article, Leah Marie Priest has a degree in Cosmetology with years of experience in dealing with hair care, scalp care, and hairstyling. As someone who extensively deals with all kinds of hair textures, products, styling methods and more, hair Leah Marie knows what kind of products and procedures suit each hair type and person. We have also tested these hair products and processes ourselves to provide you an unbiased review about every product. Each of our articles are also reviewed by a team of medical professionals so that you get the most accurate and expert-reviewed information.
Also Read:
How To Protect Hair While Sleeping
How To Protect Hair And Scalp From Sun
To Summarize
