Summer’s almost here and we couldn’t be more ecstatic. It’s time to show off that fake-tan, lay scantily-clad at the beach, run around in flip-flops and sip on cool mojitos. But while we’re busy soaking in the sand, salt, and sea, religiously slathering on sunscreen we tend to overlook our hair and neglect how to protect our hair in summer.
So, here’s a quick rundown on the most summer-time haircare issues and how to fix them in a jiffy.
Hack 1: Buh-Bye Frizz
One of the few times we loathe summer ’cos our worst nightmare comes alive – Monica’s Barbados hair! Remember her curly coils all caught up in a poof, quite literally? Well, the struggle is real, come the heat wave and we frizz up like we’ve gotten a static shock. The only way to beat the humidity is ensuring your mane doesn’t soak up ambient moisture. So, stack up on a hardworking, hydrating serum that tames flyaways and builds a barrier against humidity. Also, skip heat-styling tools altogether. You’re better off working with your natural hair texture in the summer.
Nykaa recommends: Schwarzkopf Osis Magic Anti Frizz Shine Serum and Pantene Pro-V Oil Replacement
Hack 2: Undo Split Ends
Unless you’re living under a rock, everyone knows the only sure-shot way to get rid of dead ends if in fact chopping them off. So, we recommend hitting up your hairstylist once every 4-6 weeks when the weather’s hot. But if you aren’t brave enough to face the scissors yet, fret not, we’ve found an alternative. Mend split ends by bulking up on protein (not body weight) in your haircare routine. Invest in a protein-enriched shampoo to seal cuticles and preventing any further damage. Two birds, one stone. It’s worth a shot to mend those unruly loose ends don’t you think?
Nykaa Recommends: The Moms Co. Natural Protein Shampoo and Fabindia Silk Protein Shampoo
Hack 3: Oiliness Be Gone!
When the sun’s glaring down on you, you’d assume your scalp would be less oily, right? Wrong. Plus, you’d think if your once oh-so lustrous mane is plain dried up and dead, your scalp couldn’t be far behind, right? Wrong again. When it’s so hot, you sweat a lot more. Those droplets coupled with the excess sebum production result in a very greasy head. Now, the only way to tackle this issue is by using an intensely-clarifying shampoo that’s gentle enough for everyday use. And, if you’re too lazy to lather up daily, combat the slick mess with dry shampoo. Quick Tip: Spray from 8 inches away so that there’s no leftover residue.
Hack 4: Reverse ALL Damage
If you’ve been lazing by the pool in an attempt to cool off, then this one’s for you. Waves of chlorine, add to that a dose of UV rays and you’ve got yourself the perfect mix to wreak havoc. In this case, prevention is better than cure. Always apply coconut oil since it naturally contains 4-6% SPF, knot your strands or tie ’em up in a bun before putting on a swimming cap. This will protect your precious strands from both evils. And, since your hair has already absorbed the oil, it won’t be that thirsty, meaning less porosity. But if it’s already too late and your hair is fried-n-frayed we summon the miracle worker, aka – a restorative conditioner.
Nykaa Recommends: Kama Ayurveda Extra Virgin Organic Coconut Oil and Wella Professionals Sp Luxe Oil Keratin Restore Mask.
Hack 5: Washed Out Color
You’ve gone all out and broken the bank trying to be on-par with your favorite, fashion-forward blogger, hopped from a mysterious red to inter-galactic blue and recently settled on sun-kissed bronze - the ideal shade for the summer haze. But while you’d think your pricey highlights would outlast the season, they’re already starting to fade! To prevent your locks from turning a brassy gold, the best thing to do is apply a layer of leave-in conditioner after hopping out from the shower. Infused with vitamins and nourishing hair oils, the hydrating formula will coat each strand from root to tip leaving your highlights as glossy as ever.
