The dog days of summer are upon us and that can only mean one thing (aside from the fact that now’s the time to stock up on heavy-duty antiperspirant and sweat proof makeup). We’re entering prime hair damage season: that long window between summer and autumn where the temps are brutal and the humidity (and pool chlorine) is even crueller. There’s hope for us all, though! We rounded up the essential facts you need to know to protect and style long, short, curly hair and more during the summer – presented here in a helpful A-Z guide. Enjoy!
A: Argan oil
If you buy one new product this summer, make it something with argan, the popular African nut-derived oil, which moisturises hair and fights dryness better than anything else. Work in a R1-sized amount to revive dull ends. Or coat hair from root to tip, wrap everything up in a warm towel and sit back for an hour. TRYL’Oréal Paris Extraordinary Oil (
R143)
B: Brassy hair? Not you!
Summer sun and pool chlorine can turn hair all kinds of yellow, red and even green (we know, yuck). The problem is especially pronounced if you have blonde or red highlights – and the best solution is to use a purple-hued toning shampoo (which cancels out yellow in highlights) regularly. TRYJohn Frieda Sheer Blonde Colour Renew Shampoo
(R115.95).
If you’re considering dyeing your hair and want hues less likely to turn brassy to begin with, colourist Christophe Robin says, “Go with warmer tones.”
C: Curls, yes
Curly girls
(R26.95).
D: Daria hair
Seriously, it’s a thing: The Daria in question, Canadian supermodel Daria Werbowy, has such iconic beachy waves that editors and stylists actually throw out the term on set, “Give her Daria hair!”. How to re-create? Spritz alternating sections with a salt spray like
(R210). Wrap those strands around a curling wand. Shake out (don’t brush) to finish.
E & F: Embrace frizz!
You can’t
(R139.95)
into almost-dry hair, before tying on a ribbon for a more intentional, retro effect.
G & H: Grow your hair
We know you love
(R36.95).
I: Instant chic
Every time you want to go from the pool to somewhere more presentable just smooth on a hair mask throughout damp hair, then comb it back into a low-slung bun. Try using the Noughty Intensive Care Leave-In Conditioner
(R149.95) with the Tangle Teezer Salon Elite Brush
(R240).
J: Jewellery for your updo
A cluster of embellished pins is the perfect touch for this easy style. Make sure to keep them close to a twisty bun.
K: Keratin lite
Want to loosen your waves or curls but keep the
(R164.95).
L & M: Last minute styles
Our favourite summer hair solutions don’t require much – maybe a hair tie there and a few clips here, max.
N, O & P: New oversized ponytails
Can we talk about the seriously luxurious – and giant –
(R59.95) raked through dry hair. Smooth with a paddle brush and tie back, then tease the ends.
Q: Quit the blowdryer
So you really want shiny hair? OK. Put down the heat tools. Summer is the perfect time to go wavy, curly, whatever you naturally are – and let your hair recover.
R: Repair masks
We’re very into deep conditioning in the summer. Try replacing your shampoo with a mask once a week (rinse hair with water, apply mask for a few minutes, rinse again and air-dry). TRY Dr Miracle’s Super Deep Conditioning
(R26.95).
S: Scrunchies 2.0
Scrunchies are back, guys. Rock a drugstore version or do a semi-scrunchie by wrapping a strip of colourful fabric around a chunky bun. Gorgeous.
T: Treatment from the top
So you need next-level hydration? Double-up on your moisturising efforts! Hair and
(R695), are great for nourishing damaged hair, while masks packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients, like ORS Hair Fertiliser
(R109.95), help calm and balance scalp irritation.
U & V: UV Protection for hair
No, your hair can’t get sunburned (though your scalp can – put sunscreen on it!). But UV rays can fade your colour and make hair drier. So throw on a hat!
W: Waves!
One of our favourite tools to style them: BaBylissPro Nano Curling Iron
(R299), which gives you perfect waves every time.
X: X-tra cute haircuts
Feel like a change? Consider a blunt, full-bodied bob. Ask your stylist for hidden layers to give volume.
Y: YouTube inspiration
If you like a good hair how-to video, you’ll love YouTuber Marianna Hewitt. Don’t miss her easy, messy approach to summer hair. (She starts with it down, throws it up, and clips it.)
Z: Zinc
News from the science front: “Moderate to severe zinc deficiency has been associated with hair loss,” says Dr Francesca Fusco, a scalp and hair dermatologist for Clear Haircare, who suggests loading up on foods like quinoa, buckwheat and black beans to get your fill.
T aken from GLAMOUR US. Read the original article here.
Looking for more great hair tips? Read our 10 colour DOs and DON’Ts and these tricks for a gorgeous weave.
