Taking care of your hair during the summer is essential, especially for black women who often have unique hair needs. Many of us shield our skin from the scorching summer heat and sun. But as the days warm up, it’s best not to forget about our hair. As a matter of fact, spending time under the sun, diving into salty ocean water, and getting a few extra sun streaks for style can really mess up our precious tresses. By the end of summer, some experts say our hair can get so dried out that it looks and feels like it’s been fried to a crisp.
Chlorine and salt water can really mess up your hair, drying it out, causing discoloration, and damaging it. Chlorine loves to cling onto your strands and fill in gaps, while saltwater leaves your hair brassy and brittle. And if you already have delicate, kinky/curly hair that tends to be on the drier side, these elements can be extra harsh.
You want to try and avoid excessive exposure to chlorine and saltwater. Rinse your hair with fresh water before diving in and consider wearing a swim cap. After swimming, make sure to thoroughly rinse your hair with clean water to get rid of any residue.
Moisturizing is your best friend. Keep your hair hydrated by using a daily leave-in conditioner or moisturizing spray that suits your hair type. Don’t forget to focus on the ends, as they can get really dry and damaged.
Most importantly, don’t forget to establish a solid summer hair care routine. Treat yourself to some deep conditioning treatments to replenish moisture, look for hair products that offer UV protection, and pamper your locks with hydrating masks or oils.
Understanding the impact of summer on afro hair and curls is essential for enjoying your summer to the fullest. Here are some black hair care tips for the summer.
Wear A Hat, Scarf, Or Head Wrap
To prevent your hair from drying out in the sun, wearing a hat is the simplest solution when you know you’ll be spending a lot of time outside. Don’t worry, there are plenty of hat options beyond just baseball caps. Give wide-brimmed straw hats, canvas hats with brims, or even denim caps a try. Choose whatever style that makes you happy and keeps your hair protected. But remember, to avoid damage or tugging. Make sure to create a barrier between your hair and the hat material. Wrap a satin or silk scarf around your hair before putting on the hat. If hats aren’t your thing, a long and narrow silk or satin scarf can do the trick. Simply wrap it around your hair and tie it at the back of your neck, letting the ends hang down your back. It’s a way to add a bit of style to your summer outfit while keeping your hair protected. Another trendy option right now is headwraps. They provide full-head coverage and are a fashionable choice for protecting your hair in the summer.
Wear Protective Styles
There are several popular options to choose from when it comes to protecting your hair during the summer. Some of those styles include braids, buns, topknots, ponytails, cornrows, updos. And twists. These styles not only keep your hair off your face and neck, but they also provide protection for your delicate ends. By keeping your ends shielded, you can prevent excessive dryness and breakage, which promotes hair growth and helps you retain length.
Avoid Products That Contain Synthetic Oils
It’s best to steer clear of hair products that contain synthetic oils like mineral and petrolatum oil, as they can actually make your hair even more dehydrated. Similarly, avoid products that contain drying alcohol, such as certain hairsprays, mousses, and gels. Instead, go for a finishing lotion as a better alternative.
Wet & Wash Hair Often
If you’re a summer swimmer, it’s important to rinse your hair after every dip in the pool or ocean. Daily shampooing can actually dry out your hair, so it’s best to stick to rinsing and using conditioner for washing, but make sure to shampoo at least once a week. After shampooing, follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to keep your hair hydrated and healthy. Even if you’re not swimming in chlorinated water, the increased sweating during the summer means washing away salty sweat is important for maintaining the health and vitality of your hair.
When co-washing, focus on cleansing your scalp rather than manipulating your hair too much. And don’t forget about occasional protein treatments, especially if you swim frequently or if your hair is relaxed. Adding strengthening protein will help keep your hair strong and more resistant to heat and daily handling.
