The temps are only going to continue to rise as the days get longer and summer brings with it a whole host of outdoor activities. From beach trips to pool parties, we expect to spend as much time as possible outdoor this season. And while the sun is great for the soul, it isn’t wonderful for your hair. The summer sun can have a toll on your hair, the color and the condition — which is why we’ve developed this guide to keep your locks looking luscious. 

Summer Hair Care Tips

1. Hydration is Key

The summer heat plus sun exposure can lead to dry, brittle hair. For this reason, hydration helps maintain your hair's elasticity and strength.

What You Can Do:

• Condition Regularly: Use a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter.
• Utilize Leave-In Conditioners: Consider using a leave-in conditioner to keep your hair moisturized throughout the day. This can also be applied prior to swimming or going in the sun to offer extra protection for colored or sensitive strands.
• Drink Water: Hydrating from the inside out is just as important as anything else. If you need a surefire way to drink plenty of water, invest in a fun water bottle to keep on you at all times.

2. Protect from the Sun

Excess sun exposure will damage your hair. This leads to dryness, color fading, and sometimes breakage.

What You Can Do:

• Wear a Hat: Hats are tres chic these days so invest in a wide-brimmed hat or try a scarf to provide physical protection from UV rays.
• Use UV Protection Products: Just like your skincare, look for hair products that also offer UV protection. There are so many sprays, serums, and leave-in conditioners with SPF that can shield your hair from harmful rays, making them a must-have for your beach bag.
• Avoid Peak Sun Hours: If possible, stay out of the sun between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun is its strongest.

3. Combat Chlorine and Saltwater Damage

Chlorine in pools and saltwater from the ocean can easily discolor hair or strip your hair of its natural oils, which leads to dryness and damage in an instant.

What You Can Do:

• Do A Pre-Swim Rinse: Rinse your hair with fresh water before swimming. (Or apply a mask). What this does is reduce the amount of chlorine or salt your hair absorbs.
• Post-Swim Care: After swimming, you should always rinse your hair with fresh water immediately. Then, follow with a gentle shampoo and a hydrating conditioner.

4. Cut Down on Heat Styling

Heat styling can increase the drying effects of the summer sun, leading to split ends and breakage.

What You Can Do:

• Air-Dry: Now is the perfect time to embrace your natural hair texture and allow your hair to air-dry as much as possible.
• Reduce Heat Styling: If you can’t avoid them, when you do use heat styling tools, use the lowest heat setting and be sure to always apply a heat protectant before starting.
• Try a Heat-Free Style: Heat-free styling options like braids, buns, and twists are a great way to cut down on the heat without sacrificing your style.

5. Trim Often

Regular trims help prevent split ends, can keep your hair looking healthy and prevent against future damage and breakage.

What You Can Do:

• Schedule Trims: Aim to get a trim every 6-8 weeks during the summer months, give or take a few weeks depending on your routine and length.

6. Choose Targeted Products

Using products targeted for your hair type and the summer sun can greatly improve your hair health.

What You Can Do:

• Moisturizing Shampoos and Conditioners: Switch to moisturizing formulas that are formulated to increase hydration and condition.
• Anti-Frizz Serums: Frizz is one of the most common issues during the summer months. To Combat humidity, find a serum or oil designed to smooth and protect your hair.
• Clarifying Shampoos: A clarifying shampoo once a week is ideal to remove buildup from things like sunscreen or environmental exposure.

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