The fun season of summer can take a big toll on your hair. The bright sunny outdoors calls to us to enjoy a day on the beach, at the pool, open-air events, all wearing fashionable summer clothes. But exposure to harsh temperatures, humidity and elements like pollution can suck the moisture out of our hair.

Hair dryness is a real problem faced by many, especially in the Indian summer. But every problem has a solution; we have put together some tips to help you keep your hair healthy, moisturized and you feeling fabulous all summer long.

If you are wondering about how to reduce skin dryness in the summer, don’t worry, we got you covered. 

Goodbye, Summer Dryness

Growing up, summer was my favourite season. As a child, I spent long days at the pool or taking walks. I generally was, and still am, an outdoor person. But my hair would always end up dry and brittle in just a couple of weeks. 

My mom, grandmothers and aunts tried a lot of desi nuskas. They worked very hard to maintain my hair and my skin. And I would get the occasional scolding too for spending too much time outdoors. I remember the fuss and the loving touch of my grandmother oiling my hair while having an ubtan mask on my face.

Today, I try to continue most of these home remedies for dry skin and hair. But let’s face it, we have somehow lost and forgotten the many leisures of time thanks to our busy schedules. So, I’ve learned some tips and tricks that can save time and give amazing results. 

Keeping Dry Hair at Bay this Summer

The Washing Routine

A simple tip to keep your hair healthy during the summer is to avoid washing it too often. Sounds controversial, I know. But this tip is for those who wash their hair almost daily. Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, which would otherwise coat and protect your hair from moisture loss. But the lack of these oils leaves the hair dry and brittle. Instead, try washing your hair on alternate days, or even every 2-3 days. And remember to apply a conditioner after shampooing, it’s a good layer of protection.

If you feel too icky then you can opt for a dry shampoo in between washes to keep your hair looking fresh.

Hot Water! No No No

I’ve stopped using hot water to wash my hair. Hot water just strips away the natural oils leaving it dry. Instead, I use lukewarm water to wash my hair. I also make sure to pat my skin dry instead of rubbing it vigorously with a towel. The friction of rubbing a towel is a killer on brittle hair. 

I have recently tried the T-shirt trick because sometimes towels can be super absorbent. Not a good idea if you have dry hair. But tying up my hair in an old cotton T-shirt helps retain some moisture. As soon as it stops dripping I let my hair air dry.

Leave-In Conditioner, A Saviour

Another essential tip that has helped me keep hair dryness at bay is using a leave-in conditioner. I apply it to my hair after washing it. It acts as a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss.

Additionally, I make sure to cover my hair with a scarf or a hat when I’m out in the sun. Direct exposure to sunlight can damage our hair and lead to dryness.

Give Your Heat Styling Tools a Break

You can get a saloon-like look at home but the damage it can do on parched strands is something you just don’t deserve. It’s good to give your heat styling tools a break in the summer and go for styling that requires air drying.

But if you do need to use a tool then make sure to use a good quality heat protectant spray before styling.

Don’t Ignore Your Scalp

When talking about treatments or remedies for dry hair, the scalp is often ignored. Sometimes the root cause of dryness can be an unhealthy scalp. And dandruff often times leads to a dry, itchy, inflamed and overall unhealthy scalp. The hair that grows is dull, rough, brittle and, of course, dry. 

A go-to from my childhood was a scalp oil massage with neem oil followed by a thorough wash. A little warning, the neem smell remains but the effects are long-lasting. You can also use anti-dandruff shampoo for a clean scalp and conditioner to lock in the moisture. But remember to keep your scalp clean, nourished and healthy.

Coconut Oil: An All-Natural Solution for Summer Hair Care

Nothing beats a good oil massage on the scalp, especially my all-time favourite, coconut oil. It is rich in lauric acid, which can penetrate the hair shaft and help to prevent protein loss. It’s also a great moisturizer for the scalp, as it’s easily absorbed and can help to improve elasticity.

To use coconut oil on your hair, warm a small amount in your hands and apply it to your hair, focusing on the ends. It’s recommended to keep it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it off. You can also use it as a leave-in conditioner by applying a small amount to your hair after washing it. 

Remember not all oils have a cooling effect. Almond oil would be more suited for the winters and whereas amla, navratan and mint are best to get a cooling effect. 

One last tip, for great hair all year round, add more curry leaves to your diet, there is something about this flavourful leaf that works wonders for the overall health of skin and hair. 

In Conclusion

Dry hair looks dull, limp and dramatic but in a sad, not-so-good way. Give your hair some TLC with some of the remedies suggested here to say goodbye to dry hair days and hello to fabulously nourished summer hair.