In the last week the mercury seems to have risen dramatically and if you’re like us you’ve been completely unprepared for the wrath of the soaring temperatures. As we head to the beach for some reprieve in the sea, we’re super vigilant about protecting our skin and staying hydrated, but how much care do we give our hair? Sun and salt can wreak havoc on our tresses at this time of year, leaving them frizzy, dry and damaged. Here are some easy hacks that you can implement to tame your mane and keep it looking healthy all summer long.
Start with a Fresh Cut
If you still haven’t made it to the hairdresser post lockdown then you’re not the only one! But now is the perfect time to start with a clean slate and a fresh do. Trim those splitting dead ends and ask your stylist to give you a nourishing treatment. Unfortunately, most salons aren’t too worried about the cocktail of nasties in many of the haircare products they use, including sulfates, parabens, formaldehyde, and synthetic colours and fragrances. That’s why we love Salon B in Portals Nous where Aveda products take centre stage. Nourish loves Aveda, and their commitment to using organic ingredients and Ayurvedic principles in developing their gorgeous range.
Loco for Coco
Coconut oil is great for moisturising the hair and soothing the scalp. As a hair mask apply it to wherever your strands are the driest and most damaged and less where your hair is healthiest (mid-shaft and scalp area). Leave it to absorb for 20 to 30 minutes before washing out, or if your hair is very dry you can use it as an overnight treatment. As a detangler or daily hair moisturiser work a very small amount through the ends after showering while your hair is still damp. Some studies have also found coconut oil to have a sun protection factor of 8, so it could be useful as a sunscreen for your hair too.
Keep it Covered
When you know you’re going to be outside for any length of time pop on a hat or cover your head with a scarf to avoid your hair being exposed to the suns damaging rays and heat. If hat hair isn’t something you’re particularly keen on then spray on a leave in conditioner with SPF before you head out the door instead.
Down Tools
Summer is the time for beachy hair and a less structure with your style (yay!). Forget sleek and straight or perfectly defined curls and give your hair a break from high heat styling tools. On the odd occasion that you do bring them out make sure to use a heat protectant first.
Careful with the Chlorine
Did you know that chlorine makes your hair more vulnerable to sun damage? If you’re lucky enough to have easy pool access this summer note that it’s best to avoid swimming around midday, especially on days with a high UV index. When you do swim, try to shower straight after leaving the pool to rinse out the chlorine so it doesn’t build up.