Having glorious, shiny hair is not only a matter of genetics—it is also a matter of good hair care. During the summer, the heat and rays from the sun can be very damaging, causing hair to become dry, brittle and frizzy. Applying some simple summer hair care tips will help keep hair strong and healthy.
Summer Hair Conditioning
When it is time to turn on the air conditioning, it is also time to step up the hair conditioning. Regular conditioning treatments are important to keep hair moist and pliant. In addition to normal conditioning, occasional deep conditioning treatments can be very beneficial. Before bed, apply deep conditioner to damp hair and wrap in a shower cap or saran wrap and leave in overnight so the conditioner has extra time to soak in and repair the hair.
Another way to keep hair moist, particularly the ends which are most susceptible to dryness and damage, is to apply jojoba oil. Either use it as a treatment before shampooing or apply it to the ends during the day when they need a little extra softening.
Be Kind to Hair during the Summer
During these months, when the hair is so susceptible to damage, it is important to choose products that are gentler than what one might use during the rest of the year. Avoid harsh chemicals and shampoo less often, if possible, than during cooler months.
Products that claim to add shine do little more than that and actually coat the hair without adding moisture or strength. In the long run, this can actually be more damaging than using no product at all. In addition, avoid products with alcohol and formaldehyde, because they can dry the hair. Instead, look for products that are as natural as possible and that say they replenish, moisturize and/or protect.
It is also a good idea to curtail blow drying, curling and straightening to minimize trauma to the hair.
Allow hair to air dry and wear simpler styles that do not require heat application to create. Hairstyles like buns, braids and knots are cool and cute to wear, are not damaging to the hair, and have the added benefit of hiding frizziness.
If the hair must be blown dry or styled with hot irons, spraying in a leave-in product that is designed to protect the hair will minimize the damage.
Protect Hair from Sun Damage
The best way to prevent the sun from damaging hair is to keep the hair out of the sun. Of course, it is ridiculous to think we must never go outside, so protective steps must be taken. Cover the hair with a cute summer hat or scarf, which will not only protect the hair but the scalp as well. If no hat is available, applying sunscreen to the hair and scalp will protect both from the sun’s damaging rays. When swimming, wear a bathing cap to protect hair from chlorine and salt water.
There is no need to let hair succumb to the heat and drying effects of summer sun. Taking a few steps to bolster the hair’s moisture and strength and protect it from sunlight and heat will keep hair looking shiny and healthy all summer long.
