How To Protect Your Hair During The Summer

You know what the hottest thing on the planet is? The sun. And it has been showing off in the UK over the past few days. The UK is experiencing what could be the most intense heat wave ever in history. Just recently, the country recorded a peak temperature of 40°C. That is almost double the normal average temperature of 13.8°C. Heatwaves are not foreign to us UK residents but a heatwave of this magnitude is very uncommon. So it is not surprising that the country and its residents are less equipped to deal with it.

We know that where there's heat, there's the absence of moisture. With summer finally here and the increasing temperatures, your hair will become drier, frizzier, and more difficult to manage. But you're not without hope. Here are 5 things you can do to protect your hair during a heatwave.

1. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoos

Sulfates are not bad in themselves. They are the chemicals in cleaning agents responsible for dirt removal and foam formation. The thing with sulfates is that they take their job too seriously. When used in shampoos, they cleanse the hair too much and even strip the hair of its natural moisturizing oils thereby causing dryness. For this reason, sulfates are not so desirable in hair products. Look out for harsh sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate or ammonium lauryl sulfate. Opt instead for milder surfactants like sodium cocoyl isethionate or cocamidopropyl betaine.

2. Moisturise Properly

The most effective way to moisturise your hair is the Liquid-Cream-Oil(LCO) method. First apply a water-based leave-in conditioner to your hair. A good option is our Mane Bliss Hydrating Mist that contains water, aloe vera and honey, all of which are deep moisturizing agents. Next, coat your moisturised strands with a cream. We recommend our Mane Bliss Nourishing Hair Lotion. Finally, apply a sealing oil like the Mane Bliss Sealing Hair Oil that'll lock in the moisture and add shine to your hair.

3. Deep Condition

A deep conditioner is much thicker than a regular conditioner and is applied to the hair for a much longer period to allow for the maximum moisture absorption. Alternate between water-based and protein-based deep conditioners to maintain a healthy moisture-protein balance.

4. Avoid Heat

The heat of summer already drains our hair of much needed moisture. Using heat in our routine will further damage the cuticles of the hair resulting in more moisture loss and dry, frizzy hair. Apply a heat protectant if you must use heat to lessen the effects.

5. Wear a Head Covering

A fun way to switch up your hairstyle while keeping your strands protected is with scarves and durags. You'll never run out of options because head coverings come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Scarves made of satin or silk are preferable because they are non-absorbent and reduce friction between the hair and the material.