Tips to Keep Your Hair Healthy This Summer
Oh summer, how we love you for all the things you bring with you every year! Beach days, pool parties, warm weather – what’s not to love? Ok, when it comes to summer hair, we might have a few minor complaints. Because while we love the fun and festivities of summer, the season of the sun can do a number on our hair. Yes, the potential for hair damage from the sun, chlorine, salt water, and other environmental factors make it essential to take a few extra steps to keep your hair looking summer worthy. Fortunately, we’ve done our homework, so you don’t have to! Check out our top tips for rocking radiant, healthy hair this summer.
Protect Your Hair From the Sun
Just like your skin, hair can suffer from the harmful effects of UV rays. You can certainly try to limit your exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak hours when the sun’s rays are the strongest. But that’s not very much fun now, is it? If you’re planning to spend a lot of time outside, consider wearing a cute wide-brimmed hat or a chic scarf to protect your hair from the harmful UV rays – and P.S., look super cute while you’re doing it!
But if headgear isn’t your thing, you can also opt for hair products with built-in UV protection. These products create a barrier between your hair and the sun’s rays, helping to prevent damage and fading of color-treated hair. Look for leave-in conditioners, serums, or sprays that offer UV protection specifically designed for hair.
Hydrate that Hair
The sun, heat, and chlorine from swimming pools can strip your hair of its natural moisture, leaving it dry and brittle. Fight back by using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner and give your hair extra love by adding an extra deep conditioning treatment to your weekly hair care routine.
Hydrate Yourself
Keeping your body hydrated is good for your entire body – including your hair. So, be sure to drink plenty of water in the summer.
Give it a Rinse
If you’re splashing around in pools or oceans, keep in mind that chlorine and saltwater can leave their not so pleasant marks on your hair. To prevent the drying effects of both, give your hair a quick rinse with fresh water after a dip to remove chlorine or salt build-up.
Give it a Rest
From excessive use of hot styling tools. Summer is a great time to rock an easy ponytail or messy bun to avoid having to tame your hair into submission with the drying heat of blow dryers, flat irons or curling irons. Let your hair air dry as often as possible to give it a much -needed break.
Give it a Trim
Regular trims during the summer (or anytime of the year) help remove split ends and prevent damage to the rest of your hair. When you have split ends, they can travel up the hair shaft and cause damage to the entire strand. So, trim those bad boys regularly and keep those follicles fresh!
Keep it loose
Tight hairstyles also pull on your scalp, which can cause discomfort and tension headaches. Your hair needs room to breathe and to move naturally, especially during the hot summer days. Opt for looser hairstyles that still keep your hair out of your face, such as loose braids or messy buns. This way, you can still keep your hair stylish and off your neck, without putting unnecessary strain on your hair.
Pick your Products with Care
Selecting the right products for your hair type and texture is crucial to keep your locks healthy this summer. If you have curly hair, opt for moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that help define curls without causing frizz. For those with fine or thin hair, lightweight products such as volumizing mousses and dry shampoos can add volume without weighing the hair down. And if you have color-treated hair, choose products specifically formulated for dyed hair that contain ingredients that will keep your color from fading as a result of sun exposure. For those with oily scalps, avoid using heavy styling products such as pomades and oils that can clog hair follicles and cause buildup.
Enjoying the dog days of summer doesn’t mean you can’t keep your hair healthy and looking great. Because, let’s face it, we care about our hair. And some of us are more than just a little passionate about all things hair. If that sounds familiar, maybe you’d be a perfect fit for a cosmetology career! If creating signature hairstyles for a living sounds like a future worth exploring, you should check out the Cosmetology and Hairdressing Program at Continental School of Beauty. With three campus locations to choose from in upstate NY, Continental is training the next generation of talented beauty professionals. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a campus tour!
