Every season brings new challenges when it comes to your hair. Winter weather dries out the strands and leads to static while summertime exposes hair to more UV rays that fade the color and give you split ends. If you want to get hair ready for warm weather fun, pay attention to the products you use like natural shampoo, the moisture levels and your exposure to chemicals.
1. Go natural
One of the easiest and most effective methods to keep hair in line when the weather gets hot is to avoid trying to control it. Styling products and heat from the sun don’t mix. The high temperatures bake the chemicals to strip hair of its natural oils. You can combat the effect by avoiding hairspray and gels. Let your hair dry naturally whenever possible, as well.
Cut back on color processing during the warm season. It tends to dry hair further. Instead, wear a beach hat or pull your hair back. Reduce the number of times you shampoo to increase the natural oil, so when you are in the sun, the side effects are not as bad.
2. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!
Baby your hair during the summer with some extra moisture. Try applying a hair mask once a week. For a less costly approach, cover your strands with conditioner and let it sit in hair for an hour before rinsing. You can run some conditioner through hair while lying at the pool or when going to the beach, as well. This will protect it from the sun.
Too much moisture can be a problem too. If you notice your hair is frizzy, cut back on the moisturizing treatments for a week.
3. Swim at your own risk
Swimming is a major culprit when it comes to summer hair. In pools, the chlorine causes issues, but when you go to the beach, the saltwater is the problem. Both strip the color and cause hair to dry out. Rinse your hair with fresh water immediately before and after swimming. Once you get home, take a shower to wash with a natural shampoo and condition normally.
Carry a spray bottle with fresh water with you when basking or playing in the sun. You can spray hair down regularly to keep it wet and fight UV damage. This will also rinse out any water splashed in your direction. That plus a thin coat of conditioner is enough to prevent drying and reduce chemical issues.
Summer is hard on your hair. The heat, the abuse from playing outdoors and the constant need to shower take its toll. You can fight back by protecting your hair with natural products and keeping it free from chemicals.
