Keeping your hair happy in the heat

Dr. Shruti Kakar, aesthetic dermatologist and an expert consultant at Vatika, shares how to help your locks look their best as the weather heats up!

As the days start to heat up it’s the perfect time to give your hair the reset it deserves. The transition into hotter weather can throw your strands off balance with the rise in temperature and humidity – but don’t worry! Getting your hair in top shape for the season change is easier than you think.

Here are some tips and tricks for keeping your locks fabulous throughout the seasonal switch.

Tame the frizz

It can be a good idea to swap to hydrating shampoos and conditioners with aloe vera, argan oil or coconut. Lightweight leave-in conditioners and nourishing hair oils are also your new best friends during this transition – they’ll hydrate, smooth and add that shine we all crave. Dry shampoo is another secret weapon to soak up any excess oil, perfect for those sun-filled days when you’re outdoors more often.

For those with curly or wavy hair, humidity can bring unpredictable frizz. To keep it in check, try incorporating a frizz-control serum or smoothing cream into your routine. A weekly hydrating hair mask is also a great way to add moisture and smooth rough texture, giving your hair an extra boost. For the ultimate frizz-fighting hack, switch to a satin or silk pillowcase as it reduces friction while you sleep, ensuring your hair stays sleek and frizz-free – ideal!

Be sun smart

Prolonged sun exposure can actually lead to dryness, colour fade and weakened strands. So, keep your hair happy by investing in UV-protecting products, like shampoos, conditioners and styling creams, that shield your hair from the sun’s harmful rays. Bonus points if you top off your look with a wide-brimmed hat – it’s cute and provides extra protection – sun-kissed hair, but make it safe!

The power of a fresh cut

A trim does more than clean up split ends – it boosts your volume, promotes healthy growth and gives your hair a lighter, bouncier feel. Whether you’re going for a major chop or just a few inches off, a trim keeps your hair looking its best and lets your natural texture shine.

Scalp health

Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp, so show it some love this season! With the rise in humidity, you may notice more oil buildup, especially if you’ve been using heavier products throughout the winter. To tackle this, why not add a scalp exfoliating treatment to your routine? It’s a handy way to  remove any unwanted buildup and encourage good hair growth. Massaging your scalp while you’re shampooing promotes better circulation, which can actually strengthen your follicles. As oil production picks up, you may want to shampoo more often with a sulphate-free or clarifying formula. For dry or curly hair, hydrate once or twice a week – for other hair types, once is enough. If your scalp is oily, use dry shampoo between washes and avoid over-touching your hair. 

Hydrate from the inside out

It’s not just about what you put on your hair – what you put in your body counts too! Really make an effort to keep that glow going by drinking plenty of water. Afterall, hydration is essential for shiny, healthy locks, and the more water you drink, the better your hair will look. If you want to go the extra mile, experts recommend adding omega-3-rich foods into your diet, like avocados, walnuts, and fatty fish. These healthy fats are a win for your hair, your skin and your general health too!

Less is more

Consider ditching any heavy creams and waxes, and swap them for lightweight products that create that ‘I woke up like this’ vibe. Mousse or light texturising sprays are your best bet for adding volume, texture and movement. Whether you’re rocking soft waves or a tousled look, the goal is natural, beachy and carefree. Less is definitely more this season!

Minding treated hair

If your hair has been colour-treated, it needs extra care as the weather warms. You can protect it from the sun with UV sprays and hats, and use sulphate-free shampoos to preserve your colour. Aim to hydrate it regularly with deep conditioning treatments and, where possible, limit heat styling to avoid damage. If you’re spending more time in the pool as the days get hotter, make sure to rinse your tresses with cool water to lock in moisture and protect your hair from chlorine by wearing a swim cap or applying a protective treatment. Finally, keep your ends fresh with regular trims to avoid split ends.

With these simple adjustments, you’ll be rocking gorgeous, healthy locks all season long.

Image Credit: Vatika