The scorching heat and high humidity of summer can wreak havoc on our hair, leaving it dry, frizzy and dull. Luckily, there are some simple but significant ways to help combat frizz and encourage shinier, smoother stands! By incorporating the solutions below, from using professional hair care products to utilizing proper hair care techniques, you’re not only bound to achieve more manageable summer strands, but are sure to turn heads wherever you go!
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Understanding the Causes of Fight Frizzy Summer Hair
We all know how frustrating it can be when our hair decides to go on a frizz frenzy — but do we all know why it happens and what causes this unruly behavior? To truly tackle the problem and be proactive, we probably should!
- Humidity is the biggest culprit when it comes to frizzy hair. When the air is moist, our hair absorbs the excess moisture, causing the hair shaft to swell. This swelling leads to the dreaded flyaways and frizz that we all know and loathe.
- Heat from styling tools may give us sleek and shiny hair, but it can also play a major role in causing frizz. Excessive heat from flat irons, curling irons and blow dryers can strip the hair of its natural moisture and hydration, leaving it dry, brittle and prone to frizz. From here, environmental heat can pile onto the effect!
How to Fight Frizzy Summer Hair
Now that we know the main causes of frizzy hair, let’s dive into some ways to combat it this season.
1. Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration starts from within. Drinking enough water helps to keep your body hydrated, and that includes your hair strands! And when your hair is adequately hydrated, it tends to be smoother and less prone to the drying and brittleness that leads to frizzing.
A dry scalp can also contribute to frizz by causing the hair to become dry and brittle, so drinking enough water is important to help moisturize your scalp and promote a healthy environment for your hair follicles as well! A well-hydrated scalp will also produce a healthier amount of natural oils to nourish the hair and prevent excessive dryness, which will also help to reduce frizz!
2. Infuse Extra Hydration Into the Hair
When it comes to hydration, your focus will be on the inside of the hair strands. Getting the hair wet is a great way to add hydration to the hair, whether it be thanks to the water itself or the incredibly hydrating products that you can use in combination with the water! So whether you use hydrating shampoos and conditioners in the shower that are suitable for your hair type to replenish hydration and prevent dryness or you apply a deep conditioning treatment to damp hair during a bath and allow it to hydrate your hair strands deeply, your hair will thank you for the added hydration!
3. Dry Hair Gently
After washing your hair, pat it dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing vigorously, as this can roughen the hair cuticles and create frizz! Consider using a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to blot excess moisture, and using a wide-toothed comb or a brush with natural bristles to detangle ONCE IT’S DRY. These types of combs and brushes are gentler on your hair and reduce the likelihood of causing friction-induced frizz — and using them dry can help reduce the risk of stretching and breakage.
4. Add Extra Moisture to the Hair
When it comes to moisture, your focus will be on the outside of the hair strands. Typically, moisture is maintained through the use of salon-quality hair oils, butters and other products that prevent moisture loss. Specifically, we tend to recommend water-based moisturizers and suggest that they be applied to damp or dry hair and focused on the ends and any areas that feel especially dry. It’s important to distribute the product evenly and avoid applying too much, though, as it can weigh down your hair! When it comes to rinsing these products out, be sure to use cold water, which will help to seal the hair cuticles and make the hair appear smoother and shinier!
5. Lock Hydration and Moisture in
Hair oils can be an extremely effective way to nourish your hair while locking in hydration and moisture. Natural oils such as coconut oil, argan oil, jojoba oil or almond oil can help seal in moisture, reduce frizz and add shine. Apply a small amount of oil to your hair, focusing on the ends and any particularly dry areas. You can leave it on overnight or for a few hours before washing it out or use a few drops as a finishing touch after styling.
With that in mind, it’s important to remember that not all hair oils are awesome or created equal, and choosing the right one is crucial for achieving the desired results! Opt for lightweight oils, as they absorb quickly into the hair without weighing it down.
6. Be Proactive with Protective Styling
Protecting your hair from external elements can help to retain moisture. Styles like braids, twists, buns or updos can protect your hair from friction, manipulation and exposure to environmental factors that can cause dryness. Before styling, apply a leave-in conditioner or moisturizer, and consider using a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to cover your hair while you sleep to prevent moisture loss.
7. Shield Your Hair From the Sun
The sun’s harmful UV rays can damage the hair cuticles and, as a result, make your hair appear more dull and dry. Luckily, shielding your hair from the sun can be as simple as wearing a hat or adorning a scarf to block your hair from direct sunlight.
8.Let a Stylist Cut Frizzy Ends Out of Your Life
One of the most essential steps in keeping Fight Frizzy Summer Hair at bay is getting regular hair trims. Regular trims, every six to eight weeks, are crucial for maintaining healthy, less frizzy locks. Trimming your hair frequently helps to get rid of split ends, which can lead to further damage and increased frizz. By keeping your ends healthy, you’ll notice a significant improvement in the overall appearance and manageability of your hair.
Remember that taking care of your hair is an ongoing process — but with these tips (and a good salon or stylist) in mind, you can embrace your natural texture and enjoy healthy, beautiful hair all summer long!
