STYLE

Warm nights, long days on the beach, hours in the sun–who isn't ready for summer?! We love everything that summer has to offer, but sometimes our hair doesn't. 

Hair breakage can lead to dry, brittle strands that flake and fall out (especially after an incredibly long day in the sun). We know–we *all* want good summer hair days. Lucky for you, we've discovered the best haircare secrets to prevent breakage and keep your locks lovely this summer. 

1. Keep your hair hydrated

Being outside and staying active all summer is great, but it can also further hair damage if your hair isn't being properly cared for. Washing your hair frequently and spending a lot of time in the sun can dry out your hair. Keep your hair hydrated by using anti-breakage shampoo and conditioner. Apply leave-in conditioner and only brush wet hair with a wide-tooth comb. We also recommend using a weekly hair mask for extra hydration!  

Some of our faves are OGX anti-breakage shampoo and conditioner and sunbum leave-in conditoner.

2. Let your pony loose

Hair ties are a nuissance to your hair, especially if you're wearing a tight ponytail 24/7. Switch up your styles whenever possible–wear your hair down more often or opt for a braid instead. Heat and humidity go hand-in-hand with the season, so hair accesories are unavoidable. Use hair ties that won't damage your hair like spiral or fabric hair ties. 

3. Rinse your hair before and after swimming

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When you dive into a pool or the ocean with dry hair, it will absorb the harmful chemicals. Make sure to rinse your hair with cool water before swimming so your hair is less likely to absorb the bad stuff. *Always* wash your hair as soon as possible after swimming in a pool–chlorine dries it out (and can potentially turn your hair green if it's dyed!). 

4. Avoid extra heat

Your hair is already going through so much this summer–avoid the excessive heat! Let your hair airdry and nourish it with hydrating hair products. Stay away from hair straighteners, blow dryers and curling wands as much as possible. Now is the perfect time to care for and embrace your natural hair. 

5. Get a fresh trim for the summer

One of the easiest ways to avoid excessive breakage or brittleness is to get a trim. If you haven't gotten your hair trimmed or cut in quite awhile, now would be a good time to chop of your already-dead ends. Start the season off with a fresh, healthy cut!

Image: Roberto Nickson from Pexels

Have any burning beauty questions? Let us know on Twitter @girlslifemag!

Slider image: Lola Russian from Pexels

by Allie Lijewski | 5/11/2021