The sun's rays dance upon the waves, carrying the scent of sunscreen through the air, signalling the arrival of summer. With it comes the allure of endless days filled with adventure, laughter, and the bliss of beachside escapades—a tradition cherished by the French. Camping trips, beach outings, and basking in the splendour of the great outdoors are pursuits deeply ingrained in French culture during this vibrant season.
Yet, amidst the excitement, it's crucial to consider the well-being of your hair. Summer's magnificence can be harsh on your mane, with the blazing sun, chlorine dips, and salty air threatening even the most resilient strands, leaving them dull, dry, and frizzy.
But fret not, for there are remedies to be found! With a few simple adjustments to your routine, you can combat the summer heat and ensure your locks remain luxurious throughout the season. This comprehensive guide is your ally, equipping you with the knowledge and tools to transform your hair from a casualty of summer to a radiant crown, mirroring the vitality and elegance of the French lifestyle.
So, grab your sunhat and favourite conditioner, and dive into the secrets of summer hair survival!
Sun's Out, Scalp's Not So Happy
The sun's UV rays are not just bad for your skin, they can wreak havoc on your hair, too. UV radiation damages the keratin in hair, leading to dryness, frizz, and colour fading. Protect your precious locks with a leave-in conditioner or hair oil with SPF. Some hair oils you can try are the Embroylisse Hair Oil, and the Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Dry Oil. For the leave-in conditioner, we also recommend Christophe Hydrating Leave In Cream.
Apply generously before heading out, and reapply every few hours if you spend extended time in the sun. Bonus points for opting for a hat with a wide brim for extra shade.
Prevent Chlorine Damaged Hair
Chlorine's sanitising power is great for pools but not so much for your hair. The harsh chemicals strip away natural oils, leaving your hair dry and brittle. Combat chlorine's wrath with a pre-swim rinse. Dilute a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice in water and drench your hair before hitting the pool. This acidic rinse helps close the hair cuticle and prevent chlorine absorption. You can also use the Christophe-Robin Purifying Cleansing Scrub with Sea Salt as a scrub. Another recommendation we have is the Christophe-Robin Hydrating Cream scrub.
And don't forget to shower and deep condition immediately after your swim to remove any lingering chlorine residue. Some products we love include Christophe-Robin Purifying Shampoo with Thermal Mud, Klorane Shampoo Detox with Organic Mint, and Klorane Conditioner with Mango.
Salty Seas and Sandy Strands
Beach days are magical, but the combination of salt and sand can rough and tangle your hair. Rinse your hair with fresh water to remove salt and sand buildup when you leave the beach. A clarifying shampoo once a week can help further remove any lingering sand and product buildup traces. Opt for hair masks rich in moisturising ingredients like avocado, coconut oil, or aloe vera to replenish lost moisture and tame frizz.
Heat Styling Hiatus
Give your hair a break from the heat! Opt for air drying whenever possible. If you must style your hair, use a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature low. Consider diffusing your hair rather than blow-drying for added volume and less frizz. And give braids, buns, and headbands some love – they're stylish and protect your hair from the elements.
Hydration is Key
Like your body, your hair must stay hydrated throughout the summer. Drink plenty of water and incorporate hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables into your diet. Deep condition your hair regularly to lock in moisture. Consider hair treatments like Nuxe from French Beauty or keratin bonds to strengthen and protect your hair from further damage. You may want to also try products from our collection of exclusive French hair brands, such as Bachca, Christophe Robin, Cattier, and Color & Soin. If you want a more natural option, we also have Klorane!
Summer Shine, Shiny Hair
Finally, embrace the season's natural beauty! Let your hair loose in beachy waves or a messy bun. Experiment with temporary hair colour or fun accessories like headbands and clips. Remember, healthy hair is happy hair, so don't stress about achieving perfection. Enjoy the summer sun, the cool waves, and the freedom of beautiful, carefree hair!
As you embark on your summer adventures, remember that a bit of care goes a long way in maintaining the health and beauty of your hair. These simple practices ensure your tresses remain resilient, vibrant, and ready to shine all summer. Embrace the season's warmth while radiating confidence with your gorgeous, well-cared-for locks.
