Summer is here and the
heat has officially begun to wreak havoc on our hair! Remember that dryness is the enemy (why? because it leads to breakage), so here are a few tips to help your hair stay hydrated, leading you to retain length throughout the summer.
- Co-wash frequently. This is one of the best ways to instantly infuse moisture into the hair. As opposed to shampoo, it cleanses the hair without removing your natural oils. Do this 2-3x/week.
- Increase your deep conditioning. Instead of deep conditioning once a week, increase it to 2-3x/week. Remember, water is your friend!
- Moisturize & Seal often. You should be moisturizing internally (i.e. drinking 8 glasses of water a day) and externally. Moisturizing your hair with a water based moisturizer (water should be the first ingredient) at least twice a day should do the trick (depending on your hair type). If you are the type to lightly spritz throughout the day, try a mixture of Aloe Vera Juice, Water, Glycerin and Coconut Oil in a spray bottle for softness and moisture. This will also help cool your scalp.
- Introduce humectants in your regimen. Humectants draw moisture from the air into your hair. So take advantage of those hot humid days by adding Honey, Glycerin or Castor Oil to your Moisturizers and/or Deep Conditioners. Or you can purchase moisturizers with at least one of these ingredients to increase hydration. Your hair will thank you.
- Rock a damp/wet bun. Dampen your hair with water (if you haven't co-washed or deep conditioned first), apply your moisturizer then seal, immediately bun your hair. Damp bunning a simple and an easy way to lock in moisture.
- Wear a hat. This will ensure maximum protection from the sun and keep you cool.
- Baggy your ends. Moisturize and seal then baggy for a few hours or overnight. This will give your hair a quick pick-me-up of hydration.
- Protect your hair with Protective Styles. Opt for easy styles. Rock a chic side bun, french braid or half wig for protection against the heat. These low manipulation styles will help lock in moisture, prevent breakage and help retain length.
- Beat Frizz. Keep your ends covered in the styles listed above and/or invest in an anti-frizz leave-in solution i.e. Leave-in Conditioner, Serum etc. to apply on the hair while damp for better results. Remember, frizz is caused by dryness, therefore; the best way to prevent dryness is to keep the hair moist and don't touch it (constant manipulation of the hair can cause frizz)!
- Put down the Blow Dryer & Air Dry! Using heat frequently while in the heat can really rob the hair of moisture leading to unnecessary dryness and breakage. Put down the blow dryer and try air drying for a change. Give your hair a break. It may take a little longer but it's much healthier.
♥ Sunshyne