Curly Hair Tips For Summer
I had the pleasure of taking over Rawly Bold’s Instagram Live this week to discuss all things hair care and share some tips for the summer.
The summer weather can wreak havoc on our hair from the sun, sweat, humidity, chlorine and bugs. Our hair is usually the last thing we worry about but it suffers the most against the harsh elements.
If you’re looking to up your hair care game this summer then here are some curly hair care tips for keeping your curls looking great during these hot summer months.
Dealing with The Sun
Did you know your hair can get sun burnt?! The sun’s rays are responsible for lightening our hair and fading the hair color we paid good money for.
It’s important to use hair products that have natural UV protectants like shea butter or orange peel extract.
Note that products that promise heat protection are not the same as UV protectants. Always take a look at your product and see if they have a SPF factor or state UV Protection.
If you plan to be out in the sun for more than an hour, your best bet is to wear a hat or scarf to protect your curls.
If you’ve ever experienced a sunburn on your scalp, you know how uncomfortable they can be. It is important to stay away from any harsh shampoos or any products that will stimulate your scalp and irritate it further.
Grab your hydrating co-wash and let your hair air dry. Avoid blowdryers or diffusers that will only dry out your scalp more until your burn has healed.
Dealing with Sweat
I don’t know about you, but I sweat so easily in the summer that I have to take that into account which hairstyles I wear during the humid months.
It’s important during these hot months to wash your hair more frequently to remove sweat, build up and refresh the scalp. Use a conditioner wash or even try a water rinse to get rid of sweat and impurities before styling.
Quick tip: Headbands are a great option for taming loose curls around the hairline when you start to sweat.
Dealing with humidity
Does your hair get bigger during the summer because of humidity?
Humidity causes frizz, especially if your hair is not hydrated. Your curls are thirsty. So they go looking for moisture in the air.
Combat frizz starting in the shower by using a hydrating cleanser or co-wash. Then layer your favorite styling products to seal in that moisture. Start with a Leave in conditioner then go over with a heavier product like a butter or gel to seal.
Cool tip: Place your conditioners and styling products in your fridge for a refreshing sensation on your scalp and It will also encourage your hair cuticles to close and lock in moisture. Aloe vera juice is good for this.
Dealing with Bugs
Have you ever been attacked by bugs while sitting under a tree or trying to enjoy the great outdoors? With heat comes bugs and they are attracted to your breath, sweat and fragrance.
Keep bugs at bay using peppermint or lemon grass essential oils. You can apply a few drops to your styling product or make a leave in spritz to spray to refresh hair.
Going to The Pool or Beach
We all want to beat the heat by jumping in the pool or heading to the beach, but salt water and chlorine do a number on our hair.
Saltwater is drying and pulls moisture out of the hair. However, it can easily be rinsed out of the hair. Chlorine, on the other hand is attracted to hair porosity, embedding itself into our hair. It changes the way our hair feels and causes it to dry out and turn green.
Chlorine needs a little more grit to be removed from the hair. Opt for a gentle shampoo to help remove chlorine and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.
Before you even hit the water protect your hair with a swim cap. I know they’re not cute but they protect your hair.
Wet your hair in an outdoor shower then apply a conditioner. This will act as a barrier to the chlorine or salt water.
Put a cloth cap over your curls, then put a latex cap over that one. This covers your curls while also protecting the hair from latex, which can pull on the hair and cause breakage.
If swim caps aren’t your thing, braid your hair up before getting wet to avoid tangles later. After you get out of the water rinse or cleanse your hair and apply a deep conditioner.
Easy Summer Styles
When it comes to a hot climate, messy is in! Trying primp and proper hair styles are a waste of time unless you plan to be inside under air conditioning. These easy styles are great for summer time:
Messy Buns
Braids
Scarves
Summer can be harsh on our hair but if you apply these techniques your hair will stand a better chance against these summer elements and stay moisturized and defined.