Spring is here and summer is right around the corner. Those of us living in climates that get hot and humid know that this weather can have a huge impact on our hair. Lack of definition is one of the most common effects of increased exposure to water vapor. Other spring struggles include dryness, short-lived styles, and hair that behaves unpredictably. With the right knowledge, products, and regimen you can turn your spring struggles into spring success.

 

How Hot Weather Affects Curly Hair

 

Curly hair is more prone to dryness than straight hair because the natural oils from the scalp have a harder time traveling down the hair shaft. When the weather is hot, the moisture in the air can make curly hair even drier, leading to frizz and breakage. Additionally, sweating can cause the hair to become greasy and flat. This aligns better with straight hair. Tight curly coarse hair, the sweat and sebum typically sits at the scalp and doesn’t travel (but does lead to puffiness).

 

Sweating can cause straight hair to become greasy and flat. Tight, coarse curly hair is affected differently. The sweat and sebum typically sit on the scalp and don't travel down the hair shaft. Instead, sweat tends to cause puffiness.

 

Humidity measures the amount of water vapor in the air. The higher the percentage, the more water you're surrounded by. Your hair will begin to readily accept the vapor, causing it to swell and get larger. Your hairstyle will start to lose definition, but if you don't mind or enjoy that look, you don't need to adjust your regimen. Continue to wash your hair biweekly, clarify as needed, and dry your hair completely. Your hair will continue to thrive through the hotter seasons.

 

For our readers who prefer a well-defined curl that lasts for a long time regardless of the weather, keep reading!

 

Below you'll find ways to reduce the frizz and maximize your styles.

 

Use the Right Products.

Choose products that are formulated for tight curls and hot weather. You'll likely need to turn to gel if you want your curls to resist humidity. Knowing what's in your product and how it works is important for exactly this reason. You may have a base gel or topper that already has a humidity-fighting formula.

 

Polyquaterniums. Conditioning agents that can help control frizz and enhance the smoothness of the hair in humid conditions.

 

Silicones. Silicones form a protective barrier around the hair strands, helping to repel moisture and reduce frizz caused by humidity.

 

Humectants (such as glycerin or propylene glycol). Humectants attract moisture from the air and can help maintain hydration levels in the hair which reduces frizz in humid environments.

 

Film-forming agents (such as PVP/VA Copolymer). These agents create a thin film or coating on the hair, providing some protection against humidity and environmental factors.

 

Opt for Different Styles

 

You might find that maintaining a wash-n-go during the warmer seasons isn't for you. Or you just want to switch it up. We recommend styles like two-strand twists, plaits, and braids without extension hair. These are versatile looks that can be worn differently throughout the week. Be sure to use humidity-fighting products when you do these styles to limit naturally occurring frizz.

 

If you're wearing a wash-n-go that's becoming undefined, you can change it up with different bun styles. Buns are easy to do and can look great all day when done correctly.

 

Reminder: you should NOT slick back every single bun or ponytail you wear this spring. The tension will eventually cause the hair to thin and break. Wear your hair loose with no extensions between slick-back styles. Giving your scalp and strands a chance to recover is key to avoiding tension-related hair loss.

 

Keep Your Hair Hydrated

We say it often, but hydrated hair is happy hair. Hair that has been properly hydrated and sealed will last longer. Pair it with a frizz-fighting product and you're officially set up for greatness. The best way to maintain healthy, hydrated hair isn't from oils or creams. It's from plain 'ol H20. The best way to get water into your hair is by cleansing. We recommend shampooing and conditioning your hair about once a week. You may need to wash it twice weekly in the spring and summer. Sweating more often can lead to more buildup and irritation on the scalp. If you notice yourself scratching your head around day 4 it might be time to wash.

 

Protect Your Precious Scalp

 

We recommend frequently cleansing and moisturizing your scalp because it's skin. We recommend protecting it from the sun for the very same reason. Unprotected sun exposure can cause sunburns and even skin cancer over time. It's especially concerning because most people are not checking their scalps for signs of skin cancer. That means it can go unnoticed for years.

 

Common styles like knotless braids and twists have a lot of exposed scalp because of the parts. Those parts are continuously hit with UV rays whenever you walk outside of a shaded area. If you live in a hot climate or have visited one, you've probably felt how uncomfortable a hot scalp is when you're under the sun. You can protect your skin by wearing hats or scarves while you're outside. Covering the exposed skin will help protect it.

 

Not a fan of covering your hair or want to show off your hairstyle? Sunscreen is also an answer. You can find hair products that are formulated for the hair and scalp. Some of these products come in spray formso it's easy to reapply throughout the day. Regular sunscreen for your face and body can be used on your scalp too. The formula may leave a residue on your hair depending on which sunscreen you use. That's why some people lean towards sunscreen designed for the scalp and hair.

 

Choose whichever works best for you! But choose SOMETHING.

Avoid Thermal Styling.

 

In short, avoid heat styling tools on your natural hair. We hate to say it but silk press season is OVER. Using curling wands, flat irons, and hot combs doesn't ensure a long-lasting press now that it's humid. If your curls are healthy, they'll eagerly try to return the second you step outside. This may lead to frequent touchups with heated tools. If you're reaching for a straightener multiple times throughout the week, your hair is going to wind up with some level of damage.

 

P.S. If you're going to straighten your hair regardless, use products that protect it from heat and humidity.

 

 

In conclusion, hot weather can wreak havoc on curly hair, but with the right care and products, you can keep your locks looking fabulous all summer long. Remember to use the right products, opt for protective styles, keep your hair moisturized, and avoid heat styling. By following these tips, you'll be able to enjoy healthy, beautiful curls no matter how hot it gets outside.

 

Don't Sweat It!

 

You don't have to be stressed and worried about your gorgeous curls. You have the right tools to make this spring and summer easy. You can always learn the proper cleansing, conditioning, detangling, and styling techniques in our Home Hair Care Academy. Carmen provides step-by-step tutorials that you can follow along with as you learn.