With scorching temperatures, ridiculously high humidity levels, and record-setting heat waves, this summer is all about keeping cool and staying hydrated while you enjoy all those sunny days. And that goes double for your hair! If you've stepped out of the house with a perfectly styled ‘do, only to have the humidity turn it into a frizzy mess, you've lived this pain. Fortunately, we've got seven proven tricks and tips to help you combat the humid weather and keep your strands looking fabulously fresh.
How Humidity Affects Hair
Moisture is essential for hair health, so it sounds counterintuitive that our strands can't handle a humid day. But it's all about how water molecules interact with the proteins in our hair. When the air is full of moisture, our hair soaks it up like a sponge. This causes the hair shaft to swell and the hair cuticle to lift, leading to frizzy hair, among other kinds of havoc to your carefully styled locks. Straight hair gets wavy, curly hair becomes curlier, fine hair falls flat.... all are common examples of the dreaded "humidity hair." And the more porous the hair, the more moisture it can absorb, which causes our hair strands to swell and leads to rough, lifted hair cuticles.
Even with the AC on full blast, you probably can't avoid humid air during the summer. The key is to keep your hair moisturized so that it's not soaking up all that humidity. That starts with using the right hair products, avoiding excess moisture, and choosing which styling products will work best for you this season.
1. Start with a Solid Hair Care Foundation
The journey to humidity-proof hair starts in the shower. Lu's moisturizing shampoos and conditioners hydrate your hair, lock in moisture, and seal the hair cuticle. For extra protection, look no further than Lu's Rescue Collection. Made with deeply moisturizing Shatavari-infused glycerine, it nourishes even the driest and most fragile hair.
Pro Tip
Avoid sulfates: They can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it more susceptible to frizz. All of Lu's hair care products are free of harmful sulfates.
2. Don't Skip the Leave-In Conditioner
Leave-in conditioners are unsung heroes when it comes to anti-humidity products because they provide extra moisture and protection throughout the day. Just apply a small amount of Lu's Lock the Look, Free to Be Styling, or Intense Therapy cream to damp hair to keep your hair hydrated and smooth as you go about your summer adventures. You'll feel the difference with the very first use.
Pro Tip
Dual-purpose products: Look for leave-in conditioners with UV protection to shield your hair from sun damage. All of Lu's products are made with Impossible Keratin™️, a proprietary blend of vegan keratin, vegan collagen, and silk amino acids that -- among other benefits -- shields hair from harmful UV rays and even helps maintain your hair color.
3. Towel Dry Like a Pro
Believe it or not, the way you dry your hair can make a huge difference to your look. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel or a soft T-shirt. Regular towels can cause friction, which leads to frizz. Pat your hair dry instead of rubbing it, and you’ll be off to a smoother start.
Pro Tip
Microfiber towels: They’re gentler on your hair and help reduce frizz.
4. Give Heat Styling Tools a Summer Break
Heat styling can be both a blessing and a curse. While your blow dryer or flat iron might help tame frizz, excessive use can damage your hair and make it more prone to humidity-induced mayhem. If you must use heat tools, apply a heat protectant spray first or choose a Lu Styling Cream, which also includes heat proection. This creates a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing damage.
Pro Tip
Cool down: Finish your blow-dry with a blast of cool air to seal the cuticle and lock in shine.
5. Meet Your Summer Besties: Serum and Hair Oil
Hair serums and oils add a layer of protection and help smooth the hair cuticle. Apply a few drops to the ends of your hair after styling to tame flyaways and add shine. Remember, a little goes a long way!
Pro Tip
Natural oils are lightweight and packed with antioxidants, making them perfect for taming frizz without weighing your strands down.
6. Stay Seasonally Stylish With an Updo
Sometimes, the best way to fight frizz is to work with it. Choose a hairstyle that embraces the natural texture of your hair. There's a reason updos like braids, buns, and ponytails are trending in summer. Not only do they keep your hair off your neck, but they also look chic.
Pro Tip
Messy buns: They’re effortlessly stylish and actually look better with a bit of frizz.
7. Invest in Humidity-Proof Hairspray
Seal the deal with a good humidity-resistant hairspray. Look for products that promise a firm hold without the crunch. A quick spritz will keep your style in place and protect against the muggy weather.
Pro Tip
Flexible hold: Choose a hairspray that allows your hair to move naturally while keeping frizz at bay.
