Scalp Wellness · 3 min read
How to Keep Hair Healthy in Summer Heat
Heat, sun and humidity can leave hair dry and brittle. How to protect your hair when it’s hot outside, plus the benefits of hair masks.
By the Hair Solutions of Long Island specialists ·
The short answer
Cover your hair in strong sun, use leave-in conditioner with UV protection, rinse after swimming, skip hot tools when you can and use a nourishing hair mask once a week to restore moisture.
Hot Weather, Thirsty Hair
Did you know that split ends tend to get worse in the heat due to humidity, pony tails, clips, chlorine, salt water, etc.? You might want to start with a fresh cut or trim.
Sweat, sun, and sunscreens will have you washing your hair more often. When you do, make sure to use a good quality shampoo and conditioner that moisturizes your hair more than usual. Your stylist can recommend something that works for your hair type.
After swimming make sure to rinse each time you exit the pool. It’ll help maintain your hair. If you swim regularly, whether in the pool or the beach, shop for a shampoo and conditioner that’s designed to help swimmers maintain the condition of their hair.
How Can I Protect My Hair When It’s Hot Outside?
We already know that heat styling can damage our hair, but the heat and UV rays from the sun can be especially damaging. It roughs up the hair shaft (also known as the cuticle). Frizzy hair is the result of that and you probably already know that’s when your hair can become unmanageable and dry.
We suggest wearing a wide brimmed hat. Some hats include protection against ultraviolet rays too! If you’re not the hat-wearing type then look for hair products that provide sun protection.
After swimming or sunbathing, it’s tempting to wash your hair and style it, so it looks good again. Using heat styling tools can add more damage to whatever the sun has already done so, if you can, try gently towel drying and letting it dry au naturel.
Hair Masks Are Ideal
There are tons of recipes online for a DIY mask, or go easy on yourself and buy something that works for you. Ask your stylist for advice on which hair mask would work best with your hair type. Once a week is all you need. If you spend a lot of time in the sun or swim a lot, you might want to increase this to two or three times a week.
Frequently asked questions
Are hair masks good for thin hair?
Yes. Choose a lightweight mask and focus it on mid-lengths and ends so roots don’t get weighed down.
Does humidity damage hair?
Humidity causes frizz and swelling of the hair shaft, which can make fine hair look flat or limp.
