Keep Your Cool: Healthy Hair Tips for the Heat
Summer isn’t quite here yet, but the UV index has hit high levels a few times already, and the hot weather is ready to strike at any moment. With the seasonal shifts, comes changes in hair care needs. The sun and environment can absolutely affect your hair, so here’s a quick breakdown of how to keep your hair healthy all summer long.
The Sun Can Lighten Your Hair
If you’re relying on that big ball of hotness to kiss your strands, and give them a glow - do so in moderation. UV rays can cause damage, as well as dry out both your hair and scalp, so start a habit of applying sunscreen to your scalp, and any exposed areas. To maintain moisture to your hair, use a nourishing mask or treatment regularly.
Preserve Your Haircolour
If you have darker tones, a vibrant fashion colour or don’t want to risk fading your haircolour, referring to my first point, sun exposure can cause major fading. A wide-brimmed hat is your best friend, but using hair products with UV protection will also help. Look for formulas specifically designed to shield against sun damage and colour fading.
Top Picks:
Revlon Professional Uniq One Treatment - multi-benefit leave-in with UV filters
Color Wow Dream Coat for Color-Treated Hair - anti-frizz, heat-protection & UV defense
Redken Color Extend Magnetics - gentle and protective for colour-treated hair
Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray - offers humidity resistance and UV protection without buildup.
Kerastase Elixir Ultime L’Huile Original Hair Oil - ADds shine, tames frizz and offers heat and UV protection. Luxe uption for dry/sun exposed hair
If You Swim Often…
Pools days can be rough on your hair, especially if it’s blonde, fragile or chemically-processed. Before swimming, wet your hair with clean cool water and apply a leave-in conditioner. A shower and/or swim cap adds extra protection and helps prevent chlorine buildup, fading, and breakage.
Something important to note: Sometimes a chemical reaction between chlorine and metals in the water (like copper) can cause hair to turn green. Taking these preventative steps can help, but if you still notice discolouration, you may need to book a professional treatment to remove metal buildup from your hair.
Minimize Heat Styling
With the sun already doing enough drying, try to reduce the use of hot tools. Let your hair air-dry when possible and lean into your natural texture.
These are my top tips for healthy, happy spring and summer hair! Did I miss anything? Drop a question, comment or your own go-to summer hair care tips below!