Summers are a great time to spend a day at the beach, take a dip in the ocean or the pool, and have some fun outdoors. Unfortunately, while we all consider taking along a good reef-safe sunscreen, we often become lazy when it comes to our summer haircare routine. The sun provides a beautiful opportunity for much-needed vitamin D (and some fun tan lines), but there are a few things to keep in mind. After all, we don’t want you to end up with dried-out locks and scalp.
So, for the next summer afternoon you’re planning outdoors, here are some of our best summer haircare hacks and products to protect your hair from sun damage.
1. Reverse hair washing method
The reverse hair washing method works great for summers as it prevents the shampoo from ripping your hair of all its moisture. All you need to do is apply the conditioner first from the middle to the end of your hair. Then, without rinsing it, continue with a hydrating shampoo. If you have dry and frizzy hair, then use the conditioner one more time after the shampoo. Using this method once every week will help you get hydrated, shiny, and frizz-free hair. This is one of the reasons why this method tops our list of summer haircare hacks.
Our picks for a hydrating shampoo and conditioner –
💙 SheaMoisture Manuka Honey and Yogurt Shampoo
💙 Raw Shea Butter Deep Moisturizing Conditioner
2. Exfoliate your scalp
The scorching heat results in more scalp sweat and buildup in the summertime. On such days, exfoliation is a great way to keep your scalp clean and free of excess oil. Instead, you can opt for a scalp scrub or simply add an eco-friendly scalp exfoliator to your vanity and use it on wet hair or during the shampoo. It feels really relaxing. Exfoliation also helps promote blood circulation, which is good for hair growth. Although, remember to be gentle with your scalp and not to scrub too hard or too often; once a week is good enough.
Try these cleansing hair scrubs for exfoliation –
💙 Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Happi Scalp Scrub
💙 Fable & Mane SahaScalp Wild Ginger Purifying Scrub
3. Use a scalp sunscreen or wear a hat
When heading outdoors, along with your skin, ensure to protect your hair from sun damage as well. Our recommendation is to opt for cute hats or beautiful scarves that cover your scalp and hair completely. However, before buying a hat or a scarf, check the UPF rating of the fabric used. UPF rating is a way to determine how effectively the material shields you from UV rays. Another way to protect your hair from sun damage is to use a good scalp sunscreen on the sun-exposed areas of your scalp. Just take a little product in your hand and use your finger to gently apply the product to your scalp.
Our favorite scalp sunscreens include –
💙 COOLA Scalp & Hair Mist Organic Sunscreen SPF 30
💙 Eva NYC Mane Magic 10-in-1 Primer
Related Article: What Makes Sunscreens Eco-friendly?
4. Use good heat protection when styling
The sun already makes your hair dry and frizzy. Therefore, it is best to steer clear of styling appliances such as a curling iron in summer to avoid further thermal damage. Although, this doesn’t mean you should skip styling entirely. And the internet is full of fun ways to style your hair without heat. But, remember to use good heat protection before styling your hair. Another important thing to keep in mind is to check the temperature range of the heat protection that you’re using.
Our best recommendations for hair styling products to protect your hair from heat damage –
💙 Farewell Frizz™ Blow Dry Perfection Heat Protectant Cream
💙 Artnaturals Thermal Hair Protector Spray
5. Soak your hair well before taking a dip
If you’re going to take a dip in the ocean or the pool, it is best to tie your hair up. But we often skip this step thanks to all those crazy beach pictures we need for Instagram. (Well…), the best way to protect your hair from seawater and chlorine water damage is to drench it in cold water before you dive in. This way, your hair is soaked in clean water and does not absorb the seawater or chlorine water.
6. Use a clarifying shampoo
Once you are back home after a day outdoors, make sure to rinse your hair well with a good clarifying shampoo. This summer haircare hack will help you get rid of all the minerals, sand, chlorine, sweat, and buildup on your scalp. This will also keep your hair protected from dandruff and other issues like split ends, breakage, etc.
Great clarifying shampoo to try after a day outdoors –
💙 Adwoa Beauty Blue Tansy Clarifying Gel Shampoo
💙 Love Beauty And Planet Delightful Detox Clarifying Shampoo
7. Followup with a deep conditioning hair mask
All the heat and sun exposure, along with the seawater or chlorine water, can make your hair really dry and frizzy. So, a hydrating hair mask is a must in your summer haircare routine to return hydration to your scalp and hair. Put on the hair mask and cover your hair for 10 to 15 minutes using a warm eco-friendly towel. This will promote better absorption and hydration for your scalp and hair.
We highly recommend these two hair masks for summer –
💙 Shea Moisture Intensive Hydration Hair Mask
💙 Shea Moisture Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque
8. Use aloe vera to soothe the scalp
Sunburns are very common in summer and can get really problematic for some of us. The best remedy to treat sunburns on the scalp (or any other body part) is using fresh aloe vera gel. First, take the aloe leaf, cut it into medium-sized squares, and soak it in water for a bit. This will remove all the unwanted latex. Now, wash these aloe pieces with water, cut them in halves, and, using a spoon, scoop out all the sticky liquid from the leaf. Your fresh aloe vera gel is ready to apply.
You can directly apply it to your wet hair, let it sit for 10-15 mins, and then gently rinse it off with water. This will not only soothe your sunburn but will also leave your hair hydrated, soft, and lustrous.
9. Detangle using conditioner and a wide-tooth comb
All the dirt and buildup also result in a lot of tangled hair. And it becomes excruciating to get rid of them, especially if you have dense or long hair. If you have knots in your hair, don’t just go in with your hairbrush directly. This will result in more breakage and damage to your hair and scalp. Instead, first, gently use your fingers to make your hair manageable. Next, hop in the shower, apply some conditioner, and then use a wide-tooth comb to gently release the tangles. Start at the end of your hair and slowly move towards the roots.
Opt for these plastic-free and FSC-certified options when shopping for a wide-tooth comb –
💙 The Body Shop 1094667 Bamboo Detangling Comb
💙 Fendrihan Beech Wood Styling Comb with Wide Teeth
10. Stay hydrated
No matter how much summer haircare and skincare you follow, it is essential to stay hydrated from within. You should drink at least 8 ounces of water a day (or more) if you are out in the sun. When you stay hydrated, you will definitely see the difference in your skin and hair. You can keep a reusable water bottle handy or install an app that periodically reminds you to drink water.
Related Article: Simple Tips And Yummy Recipes To Up Your Hydration Game This Summer
By following these easy summer haircare hacks, you can avoid any damage and keep your hair looking great, even on those sunny days when you’re outside. Your scalp and hair will thank you for this, later!
Cheers to fun beach days and a wonderful summer 🌻