The Ultimate Guide to Summer Hair Protection, According to An Expert
Summer is the season of spending more time outdoors, but maintaining healthy hair can be challenging. The summer months bring intense sun exposure, which can wreak havoc on all hair types, leading to dryness, frizz, and even hair damage. Whether you have luscious kinks, coils, and curls, or sleek, straight strands, having a solid summer hair care routine is essential. With the proper routine, products, and a few strategic hair care tips, you can enjoy the sun's rays without compromising your hair health.
One of the key elements of summer hair care is sun protection. Like your skin, your hair needs shielding from the sun's rays to prevent damage, especially if you have color-treated hair. First, opt for hair products that minimize direct sun exposure. Also, to combat the inevitable summer heat, focus on lightweight styling products that won't weigh your hair down, and consider air-drying to reduce heat damage. Remember, a little frizz is natural, but with the right approach to hair care, you can keep it in check. Ahead, read up on our expert's top summer hair care tips to help ensure that your hair radiates just as much as your sunny summer days.
Meet the Expert
Ikeyia Powell is an NYC-based celebrity hairstylist.
How to Protect Hair in Summer
1. Hydrate With a Deep Conditioner
A deep conditioner like BRIOGEO HAIR CARE Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask and a heavy-duty hair mask like BREAD BEAUTY SUPPLY Hair Mask are your best friends for combating the drying effects of summer heat and sun exposure. NYC-based celebrity hairstylist Ikeyia Powell suggests, "Use a deep conditioning treatment once weekly to keep your hair hydrated and nourished. Look for a deep conditioner or hair mask with ultra-hydrating ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and argan oil."
2. Limit Heat Styling
The summer heat already stresses hair, so minimizing additional heat from styling tools like flat irons and blow dryers is crucial. "Try to air-dry your hair as much as possible," advises Powell. If you choose to use a blow dryer, use the cool setting to prevent any potential damage.
3. Use UV Protection Products
Just as you shield your skin from the sun, it's essential to protect your hair as well. Make sure to seek out hair care products that contain UV filters. "A good UV protection spray like ORIBE Invisible Defense Universal Protection Spray can shield your hair from harmful sun rays and pollution," says Powell. Apply the product onto your hair, paying special attention to your scalp before heat styling and heading out into the sun.
4. Wear Protective Hairstyles
Opt for hairstyles that minimize the risk of hair damage. "Braids, buns, and ponytails not only look chic and are styles to keep your hair care routine low maintenance but also protect your hair from the sun," notes Powell. They also prevent tangles and reduce the need for constant manipulation and styling.
5. Avoid Over-Washing
Frequently washing your hair can remove the natural oils from your scalp, which are essential for keeping your hair hydrated and healthy. During the summer months, aim to wash your hair only one to three times a week to avoid dry and frizzy hair. Powell recommends using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo like MOROCCAN OIL Hydrating Shampoo to help retain moisture and protect your hair's natural balance. Reducing the frequency of washes allows your hair to maintain its natural oils, leading to softer and more manageable strands.
6. Rinse Hair After Swimming
Exposure to chlorine and salt water can harm your hair and lead to dryness and brittleness. Remember to rinse your hair with fresh water after swimming to remove harmful chemicals or salt residue. "Rinsing your hair thoroughly after a swim helps to wash away chlorine and salt, which can strip away moisture from your hair and lead to breakage," explains Powell. This easy step can significantly lower the chances of long-term damage, keeping your hair healthier throughout the summer.
7. Trim Regularly
Regular hair trims are essential to promoting growth and maintaining healthy hair, especially during the summer when damage is more likely. This simple step makes a big difference in preventing breakage and split ends. "It's a good idea to schedule a trim every six to eight weeks to remove split ends and maintain healthy hair," recommends Powell.
8. Invest in a Good Leave-In Conditioner
A quality leave-in conditioner like AMIKA Hydro Rush Intense Moisture Leave-In Conditioner can provide ongoing hydration and protection throughout the hot summer days. It can also help seal in moisture and keep frizz at bay. "Look for lightweight leave-in conditioners with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid," advises Powell.
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