Summer brings with it a sense of sunny freedom and outdoor adventures, but along with the joys of the season come a variety of hair woes that can put a dampener on your vibe. From battling chlorine-infused pool water to taming frizz in humid conditions, maintaining luscious locks during the summer months requires a strategic approach.
As we gear up for longer, hotter days, it’s essential to arm yourself with the right tools and techniques to keep your hair looking its best. One expert who knows the ins and outs of summer haircare is Neil Moodie, a renowned editorial hair stylist and founder of the Neil Moodie Studio. With years of experience in the industry, working with the likes of Georgia May Jagger, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Cara Delevigne and Kate Hudson, he has perfected the art of achieving flawless summer hair.
So, before you head out into the summer sun, take heed of his tips and tricks to keep your locks looking radiant and healthy.
Chlorine Can Wreak Havoc on Your Hair
Chlorine can wreak havoc on your hair, stripping it of its natural oils and leaving it feeling dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. To mitigate its effects, Neil advises rinsing your hair before swimming to prevent chlorine from penetrating the hair shaft and rinsing again afterwards to wash away any residue. He also recommends using a clarifying shampoo to remove any remaining chlorine and other impurities.
Dry Shampoo Is Your Best Friend
A sticky fringe can be a nuisance in hot weather, especially if you have oily hair. Dry shampoo is your best friend in this situation, as it helps to absorb sweat and oil, leaving your hair feeling refreshed and clean. Neil recommends using a dry shampoo specifically designed for oily hair, such as Batiste’s Naturally Dry Shampoo or ARKIVE Headcare’s The Reset Dry Shampoo.
Lighten Up on the Conditioner
Heavy conditioners can weigh your hair down in the summer, making it look greasy and limp. Neil recommends using a lightweight conditioner or hair mask during the warmer months. He also suggests trying Sam McKnight’s biodegradable Hair Cleanse Cloths for a quick, refreshing clean on the go.
Avoid Sweaty Neck Syndrome
If you have thick, heavy hair, you know exactly what Neil’s talking about when it comes to ‘sweaty neck syndrome’. To avoid this, Neil explains that you should opt for high ponytails, use a cooling spray, and consider hairstyles that keep your hair off your neck. He recommends styling hair in loose updos, using hair clips instead of elastics, and considering hair-friendly accessories like silk scrunchies.
Maintaining Volume in Hot Weather
Maintaining voluminous hair when it’s above 25°C outside is somewhat of a myth, but there are ways to go about it to ensure plenty of lift no matter the weather. Neil suggests using volumising shampoos and conditioners, as well as light texture spray and dry shampoo to help give hair texture and body. He also recommends teasing your hair at the roots for added volume.
Protect Your Hair Color
If you have colored hair, maintaining your shade can be a part-time job at the best of times. Being in the sun only accelerates the speed at which it fades due to harmful UV rays. Neil stresses that UV-protective hair products are essential for preserving your hair color. He recommends using products that contain antioxidants and other ingredients that help to shield hair from the sun’s damaging effects.
Tame Frizz
If you’re someone who struggles with frizz during the summer, an anti-frizz shampoo and conditioner set is a must. However, according to Neil, not using them too often is key. He says to avoid over-washing your hair and consider a keratin treatment to keep frizz under control.
Hydrate Your Hair
It’s not just us who need to be kept hydrated throughout the summer – your hair needs to drink too. Neil says to drink plenty of water to keep your hair hydrated from the inside out and make sure to use hydrating hair masks. He recommends the Pureology Hydrate Superfood Treatment Mask, which contains Goji Berry extract and olive oil, which act as a conditioning blanket, giving a generous dose of moisture.
By following Neil’s expert tips, you can keep your hair looking its best all summer long. No matter what your hair type or concerns, there’s a solution that will help you achieve your desired look.
