It's summer time, which means many of us will see increased time in the sun at pool parties, golf courses, and numerous other outdoor activities that can take a toll on your hair. Luckily, it doesn’t have to. Follow these essential summer haircare tips for men to keep your hair healthy and looking great all summer long!
Keeping your hair safe from the sun
Most people know that ultraviolet rays from the sun can damage your skin, but did you know that the sun can also do a number on your hair and beard? Use these tips to help keep your hair safe from the sun during all your summer fun!
- Get your hair trimmed more often. When hair dries out from the sun, one of the best remedies is to get frequent hair trims. Dried hair can cause split ends, which are not good for your hair's health. By getting your hair trimmed more frequently, you can combat split ends and ultimately keep your hair healthy and looking its best!
- Wash less, condition more. Unless you are swimming, try to only wash your hair when it is absolutely necessary. This will help keep the natural oils intact, which will in turn help your hair and scalp stay healthy and moisturized. To help with this, you can pick up dry shampoo to use between full washes. And while you should use less shampoo in the summer, you should actually condition more. Leave-in conditioners can be a great option in the summer to help keep your hair ready to fight against sun damage.
- Use hair sunscreen. Yes, there are in fact specific products designed to protect your hair from those UV rays. If you are going to be out in the sun for a long time, consider throwing on some scalp and hair sunscreen. This is especially true for those with longer hair that can’t be easily covered with a hat or cap!
- Wear a hat or cap. Speaking of hats and caps, wearing something to cover your head in the summer can go a long way toward preventing sun damage to your hair!
Swimming tips: Take a dip without the damage
Whether you are heading to the pool or to the ocean, your hair can take a bit of a beating in the summertime. Pools are filled with damaging chemicals like chlorine that can strip your hair of the oils that keep it moisturized. And ocean seawater features salt, which can also dry out your hair.
Never fear though! There are a few things you can do to help mitigate damage to your hair.
- Apply leave-in conditioner before swimming. By preconditioning your hair with a high-quality leave-in conditioner, you can help combat the harmful effects of chemical or salt-laden water.
- Wash your hair with clean water immediately after swimming. By quickly removing chemicals and contaminants, you can help prevent any damage to your hair.
- Use a moisturizing shampoo. To further protect your hair health, a moisturizing shampoo and conditioning treatment can help clear out the chemicals after a swim, and set up your hair for success before a swim as well.
- Wear a swimming cap. If you really want to protect your hair from chlorine, consider wearing a swimming cap. I know they might be a bit uncomfortable, and they aren’t going to win you too many style points, but it will insulate your hair from damaging chemicals!
It can be challenging to keep your hair looking and feeling its best during those long summer days. But if you follow these recommendations, your hair will remain in tip-top shape, no matter how much time you spend swimming, hiking, biking, or any of those other summer activities!
And if you are looking for the best place to get your summer trims, check out Headquarters Barbershop in Scottsdale, Arizona (near Phoenix). Our barbers are experts in haircare, and can recommend the summertime haircuts and products that will help keep the party going all summer long!
