Curly Q: My curls tend to get incredibly dry and frizzy during the summertime. How can I keep them healthy despite the weather?
Being a curly-haired chica myself, I can admit I hate the summertime for this reason. My blow-outs don't last even a day and my curls just can't seem to behave with all that heat and humidity. And no matter how long I take in the morning prepping my hair with curl creams and strong-hold gels, NOTHING seems to help tame my rizos. Ugh! That's because during the summer, your hair needs a little extra TLC. So to avoid that dry, frizzy pouf, check out a few of my tips below that will help keep your curls looking their best all season long!
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Switch your shampoo: I've said this before and I'll say this again, do NOT wash your with a regular shampoo. The chemicals found in these formulas are so bad you might as well wash your tresses with laundry detergent. Try switching to a non-sulfate shampoo that's going to gently cleanse and condition your curls without stripping them of your natural oils. I like L'Oréal Paris Ever Curl Sulfate-Free Hydracharge Shampoo ($8). Avoid washing your hair after spending a day in the beach since your hair is still technically clean. Just rinse it out and condition.
Constantly moisturize: Curly hair tends to be naturally dry, so just imagine how it can get during the summer. Make sure to use a ultra-hydrating conditioner every time you wash your hair, like TRESemme Flawless Curls Conditioner ($4). Apply a leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture and keep curls soft. I'm obsessed with Mixed Chicks Leave-In-Conditioner ($17).
Do an oil hair mask: Try treating yourself to an oil hair mask at least once a week to repair hair from any summer damage. I really like Josie Maran's Argan Hot Oil Self-Heating Treatment ($36). Leave it in for a few minutes, rinse out, and then follow with a shampoo. You'll find your hair softer, stronger, and shiner in no time!
Chill with the hot tools: You definitely want to stay away from hot tools during the summer. It can further dry out strands, resulting in dullness and even breakage. Try airdrying as much as possible, and if you can't stand walking around with wet hair, try attaching a diffuser to to your blow-dryer.
Shield your hair from the sun: The same way you use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, you should do the same for your hair. Try spritzing a light-weight hairspray that contains UV protection before you step out of the house. I recommend Living Proof Restore Revitalizing Spray ($26).
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