10 Natural Ways to Take Care of Your Hair in the Dry Summer Heat

The triple-digit summer temperatures of Nevada can become so unbearable that you can’t even set foot outside. When you do, literally everything is hot to the touch and you’re running for cover. As a Las Vegan, you probably already know the importance of sunblock; but what are you doing to protect your hair this summer? Here are ten excellent pointers that are all-natural!

1.) Don’t Shampoo Before Swimming

We’re taught to shower before swimming to help prevent the spread of bacteria. This shouldn’t apply to your hair! When you shampoo before swimming, you strip your tresses of protective oils that guard against the chemicals and salt of pools and oceans. Shampoo afterward instead.

2.) Dampen Hair Before Swimming for Even More Protection

Heading into the water with already moist hair will stop your strands from absorbing ALL of the water it’s capable of–including the chlorine and salt. Whatever soaks into your hair will be diluted, since your locks were already wet. Ever heard of blondes finishing the summer with green hair? This is why.

3.) Wet Hair is the Most FRAGILE Hair, So…

Don’t go crazy on it with a brush when it’s still wet! Apply some detangler first, and then start working on it with a wide-tooth comb.

4.) Avoid Temperature Extremes

Going back and forth between really hot and really cold temperatures is a nightmare on your hair (and skin and nails). Aim to wash your hair in warm water.

5.) Pay Attention to Your Scalp

Have you ever had a sunburn on your scalp? These are the worst! Avoid it by not wearing a part in your hair. If you DO get one–or if your scalp is just naturally dry (and thus, flaky)–you’ll benefit especially from massaging your scalp for a few minutes every day. It improves circulation and will help remove dead skin, fighting pesky dandruff.

6.) Always Use a Nozzle When You Blowdry

Summer is the best time to let your hair go natural; but if you DO blowdry it, always use the nozzle attachment. Otherwise, there is no barrier between your hair and the hot metal. A lot of the time, the frizzy and thin hair you notice–particularly on your ends–is singed. Why? From blowdrying! A good way to test the heat is to blowdry a chunk of your hair while it rests on your arm. If it’s too hot for your skin, it’s too hot for your hair.

7.) Look for “Paraben-Free” Products

Aveda is a great brand to stick with because all of the products are paraben-free. You might not be familiar with the term, and manufacturers are getting sneaky by using other names for it. Parabens are used to prevent the growth of fungus and bacteria in beauty products. The bad news? Not only do they actually dry out your hair, but parabens have even been linked to certain kinds of cancer!

Another benefit to using Aveda is that the majority of the ingredients are organic, raw, and herbal.

8.) Try This Easy DIY Mask

If you still find that your mane needs a little TLC, blend 1/2 an avocado with two tablespoons of olive oil to replenish moisture. Apply it to your hair and let it sit for 20 minutes. If you want to keep your hair contained and covered, wrap your head in a silk scarf–not a towel! The scarf won’t absorb as much of the mask.

9.) Use This Easy Fix for Super OILY Hair

For some people, dry hair isn’t the problem. Many people with oily hair end up overshampooing, which just produces more oil. Instead, rinse with either cider vinegar or diluted lemon juice for a quick and temporary fix.

 10.) Don’t Use Elastic Bands in the Same Spot

If you wear your hair in a ponytail in the same spot on your head every time, you’re stressing the same hair, potentially until it simply breaks off for good. To avoid this, switch it up between high ponytails, low ponytails, pigtails, French braids, etc.

The heat here is no joke and certainly nothing to take lightly. Enjoy the gorgeous weather while making sure you’re always protected against the harmful rays. Maintain even healthier hair all year long by scheduling your private appointment with High Maintenance, an Aveda salon, today! (702) 547-1444