Summer Hair Care Tips

Summer has officially arrived!  If outdoor activities and warmer weather are calling your name, keep in mind that, with summer, comes a host of elements that can wreak havoc on your hair. Here are some easy summer hair care tips to follow:

Shampoo your hair with a moisturizing shampoo. You may feel the need to cleanse your hair more frequently during the summer months, but it is important not to over-shampoo. Shampooing your tresses too often can strip your hair of its shine and the natural oils needed to keep hair conditioned. If you are experiencing product build-up, excessive oil, or need to remove harsh chemicals, it may be necessary to use a clarifying shampoo.  Clarifying shampoos should be used very sparingly and not as a part of your regular weekly hair care regiment. Focus on your scalp and roots when using a clarifying shampoo and allow the soap to solely run through the rest of your hair.

Condition your hair regularly.  The summer sun can be very drying to your hair causing it to look parched and feel brittle.  Treat your hair to a hydrating, moisture-rich conditioner whenever you shampoo your hair to keep tresses nourished and healthy. Make sure to apply a deep conditioning treatment to replenish moisture and enhance shine especially after using a clarifying shampoo.

Put down the heat styling tools.  Summertime is the perfect time to embrace your natural hair texture and minimize the use of heat styling tools. Instead of using a blowdryer, blot your hair with a microfiber towel and allow it to air dry.  Consider saving flat ironing and curling your hair for special occasions. This will help to minimize heat damage that can occur when used excessively or improperly.

Start your summer with a hair trim. Rid your hair of split ends and start the season off with a refreshed hairstyle. You’ll be amazed at how trimming your hair can give your look the lift it needs.

Protect your hair color. Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can fade your hair color.  Cover your hair as much as possible when in the sun.  If you love hot showers, reduce the temperature.  Hot water can also cause hair color to fade and be very drying to your hair.  Cooler temps help preserve your hair color.

Eat a balanced diet and drink ample water.  Always remember, healthy hair starts from the inside out.  Make sure to incorporate more whole and natural foods in your diet and less sugar and processed/packaged foods.  Incorporating more water, colorful fruits and veggies, B-complex vitamins, omega -3 fatty acids, and lean proteins are a great place to start.   

Avoid overly tight hairstyles.  Though it can be extremely hot in the summertime and tempting to pull hair up or back into a ponytail, tight hairstyles, braids, buns, etc., these styles can pull on your hair strands and cause breakage.  Opt for loose hairstyles with soft hair ties or bobby pins and avoid using plastic elastics.