TABLE OF CONTENTS
• How Can I Protect My Hair During Summer?
• The Best Hair Care Tips For Summer Hair Protection
• Summer Hair Care Products
• Steps to Take if Your Hair Becomes Damaged During the Summer
• Keep Your Hair Shining Through the Summer
How to Protect Hair During the Summer
Here’s what you’re up against when it comes to summer hair and the reason why hair protection is so important. First, there’s overexposure to UV rays, which particularly for color-treated hair, can result in excess dryness and compromised color. (Think brassiness and even changing of hues.) Then, there’s what happens when your hair is exposed to saltwater, which can strip it completely of its natural oils, leaving your locks brittle and broken.
And unfortunately, that's not it. There’s chlorine exposure from pools; this can cause a chemical reaction that incites breakage, split-ends, and increased dryness. Lastly, chances are you’ll sweat more when the weather warms up, which can increase dandruff production. So, as you see, there’s quite a lot that your hair may face during the summer. But, never fret. Ahead, we’ll show you the perfect summer care for hair that will keep your curls protected.
Summer Hair Care Tips
The good news is that damaged hair during the summer isn’t inevitable, and there are plenty of ways to help protect yourself from the common afflictions that can plague our strands. Even better, they’re pretty simple. Here are some essential tips to help you protect your hair in the sun and other summer elements:
Use UV protection
The sun's UV rays can cause significant damage to your hair, leading to breakage and color fading. Protect your curls by using products that offer UV protection for hair and can help shield your hair from the sun's harmful rays.Keep your hair hydrated
Summer heat and humidity can quickly dry out your hair, making it more prone to damage. Keep your hair hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using moisturizing hair products. Look for products that contain ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera, which help to moisturize and prevent dryness. We recommend the Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Leave-In Conditioner for deep hydration and the Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Scalp & Hair Oil to hydrate from your scalp down to your curls.Opt for protective hairstyles
The name is pretty self-explanatory. Protective hairstyles, such as box braids, faux locs, and twists, keep your natural hair tucked away and safe from the elements. Even better, they’re super low-maintenance, so less styling for you. (With that said, your scalp is still exposed, so proper hydration with these summer hairstyles is still a must.)
Wear hats or scarves
While it may not go with every outfit, if you’re ever out for a simple walk or busy running errands, throw a hat or scarf on. You’ll (temporarily) block UV rays and reduce the risk of sun damage for your hair. Try pairing the hat with a tight, low bun to keep the lengths, and not just your roots, protected. If you frequent short curly hairstyles, however, just the hat will do the trick. You can always choose a hat or scarf made from a breathable material, such as cotton or linen, to avoid overheating your scalp.Get regular trims
Regular trims can help to remove split ends and prevent further breakage. Those who wear curly hairstyles can usually afford to trim less often. But when your hair is damaged, it’s a good idea to increase the frequency. Your hair is at a higher risk of drying out and developing split ends, which you’ll want to trim away. You should also be sure to trim in-between protective hairstyles.Use deep conditioner
Deep conditioning treatments can help to restore moisture and repair damaged hair. Use a deep conditioner once or twice a week to keep your hair healthy and strong. The Goddess Strength Cocoon Hydrating Hair Mask is a great option to lock in that moisture.Use dry shampoos
Dry shampoos can help to absorb excess oil and refresh your hair without washing it. This can be especially useful for those with oily hair or for days when you're short on time.Summer Hair Care Products
In addition to the tips above, there are a number of summer hair care products that can help you to protect your hair during the summer months. Some of our top picks include:
Goddess Strength Fortifying Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Here’s the thing, you can’t completely stop shampooing your summer hair—that’d be counterproductive. When you do wash your hair, just be sure to use a hydrating, sulfate-free, rich formula like this one. It will properly cleanse without exacerbating dryness.
Goddess Strength Cocoon Hydrating Hair Mask: Once a week, it’s beneficial to do a deep masking with this hydrating hair mask. For best results, let it sit on your wet hair for 5 minutes after shampooing and conditioning, then rinse with cool water.
Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Scalp & Hair Oil: This strengthening oil is packed with hair-loving ingredients and leaves your scalp and hair feeling strong - leaving your curls rejoicing at its benefits.
Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Leave-In Conditioner: No matter what you do, we highly recommend you use a leave-in post-wash to restore your hair’s moisture levels. This one with lavender and honeysuckle is perfect because of its lightweight nature yet penetrative properties.
Signs of Sun-Damaged Hair
Hair that has been damaged by the sun is typically dry, fragile, and prone to breakage. It is often caused by excessive exposure to the sun's harsh UV rays, which can damage the hair's protein structure, making it weak and vulnerable. This can result in split ends, frizz, and overall lackluster hair.How to Repair Sun-Damaged Hair
If your hair does become damaged during the summer, there are a few things you can do to help repair it:
1. Avoid heat styling: Heat styling can further damage your hair, so try to avoid using hot tools as much as possible. If you do need to use heat, be sure to use a heat protectant spray.
2. Up the Moisture: Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. With summer hairstyles, you should constantly be thinking of ways to hydrate your hair. That said, before you wash, do a pre-poo treatment, where you oil your hair before you shampoo. Be sure to apply oil once your hair is still wet, and don’t forget to pack your curls with a leave-in treatment.
Keep Your Hair Shining Through the Summer
By following these tips, you can help protect your hair from the sun and other summer elements and keep it looking healthy and beautiful all season long.
Featured Image provided by @cocosluxcurls on Instagram
Best Products for Summer Hair
Summer Hair Care FAQ
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