Summer is great for the soul — less so for your roots.
As the temperature rises, we eagerly embrace summer rituals: shedding layers, switching up our skincare, and planning sun-soaked escapes. But while we prepare our wardrobes and routines for the season, our hair is often left out of the equation — left to fend for itself under harsh sun rays, salty seas, and frizz-inducing humidity. The result? Dryness, breakage, colour fading, and all-around dullness. The good news: with just a few smart adjustments, your hair can flourish through the summer months.
Hydration Isn’t Just for Your Skin
When it comes to summer hair care, hydration is your number one ally. UV exposure, salty water, chlorine, and even wind can all rob your hair of moisture. If your strands start to feel brittle or rough, that’s your cue to double down on hydration.
Start with a rich, nourishing conditioner after every wash. Choose one that’s silicone-free if you want to avoid buildup, or one with natural oils like argan, coconut, or jojoba to replenish moisture and strengthen your hair from within. For especially dry or curly hair, consider layering a leave-in conditioner or a hydrating spray throughout the day. Think of it as your hair’s version of a water bottle — a quick top-up that makes all the difference.
Wash Wisely — Not More Often
Sweat, sunscreen, and sea breeze might tempt you into daily shampoos, but overwashing can actually do more harm than good. It strips away the natural oils that keep your scalp healthy and your hair shiny. Instead, aim to wash your hair two to three times a week and use a co-wash or cleansing conditioner in between if needed.
Choose your shampoo based on your summer hair concerns. Colour-treated hair? Go for a sulphate-free, colour-protecting formula. Battling frizz? Look for smoothing ingredients like keratin or marula oil. Flat from humidity? Volumising shampoos with rice protein or biotin can add body without weight. Products like Kérastase shampoo or Shu Uemura Urban Moisture Shampoo are formulated with summer stresses in mind, offering targeted care without unnecessary heaviness.
Don’t Underestimate the Power of Protection
Just like your skin, your hair needs a barrier between it and the sun. Before stepping outside, spritz on a UV-protective hair mist or run a few drops of antioxidant-rich hair serum through your ends. These lightweight products help prevent dryness, dullness, and colour oxidation.
Going for a swim? Wet your hair with clean, fresh water first. Hair that’s already wet absorbs less salt or chlorine, which reduces the damage. For extra protection, coat your hair with a leave-in conditioner or a swimmer-specific product before diving in.
Post-Sun TLC Makes All the Difference
After a day in the elements, treat your hair to a calming ritual. Start by gently detangling with a wide-tooth comb while your hair is still damp and conditioned — this helps prevent snapping and split ends. Skip heat tools when you can, and let your hair air dry to reduce further stress.
Treat yourself to a weekly deep-conditioning mask. Ingredients like shea butter, honey, or hyaluronic acid restore elasticity and shine. A scalp scrub or clarifying shampoo once every couple of weeks can also help remove product buildup and impurities from sweat and salt.
Your Hair Deserves a Holiday Plan Too
Think of your hair as your summer travel companion — it’s with you through long days, late nights, and endless adventures. By giving it a little pre-emptive care and daily attention, you’ll not only maintain its health, but also enhance its natural texture, colour, and shine.
So while you chase sunsets, lounge by pools, and make sandcastles with your kids, know that your hair is holding up beautifully behind the scenes. After all, glowing skin is lovely — but glossy, touchable hair that moves with the breeze? That’s the real summer statement.
