Summer may be the best time of year for our tans, but the sun, chlorine and sea salt aren't so good for our hair. This is especially the case when you're a curly girl or guy. Our locks are more prone to dryness and breakage than other hair types, so we need to be extra careful.
Whether you've opted for a staycation or vacation, if you're hoping to head underwater, there are a few things you should know. When it comes to curly hair, you need to prep your hair pre-swim and look after it post-swim. Also, if you're heading abroad, you'll need your favourite curly hair essentials in a portable travel size.
Pre-swim
Before you even think about heading into that gorgeous water, you need to prepare your hair for taking the plunge. While it may get in the way of spontaneity, these three steps are essential if you want to reach your hair goals.
Step 1: RinseFirst, you need to rinse your hair with cold water, to help close the cuticles. This is especially important if you have high porosity hair, as the wide cuticles can easily absorb too much water and cause the follicle to swell.
Step 2: ConditionOnce hair is suitably wet, it’s essential to coat your curls in a rich conditioner, making sure to apply a generous amount to guard the hair follicles against pool chemicals like chlorine. This helps to protect your natural hair oils and lock in moisture, instantly settling your worries about wash day!
We love the vitamin-packed Camille Rose Algae Renew Deep Conditioner – a little pot of goodness that houses a deeply moisturising formula to help support a softer hair texture with added protection. Enriched with a cocoa butter and algae blend,the formula helps to strengthen your curls against potential styling or environmental damage,making it easier to detangle while preservingdefinition in all curl types.
For those with looser curls and waves, themust-have Aveda Curly Conditioner seeksto strengthen, smoothen and define your strands.Sourced with an eco-friendly blend of wheat protein and organic aloe, this unmissable step works to add shine and definition to curls. Leaving a refreshing citrus aroma on strands, scented by certified organic lime, lemon, bergamot, orange and other pure plant and flower essences.
Hair oiling is a commonly overlooked but valuable step in most curly routines.It’simportant to find a formula which will protect your hair type without weighing down your curls or coils.The Pattern Jojoba Oil Blend Serum works to quench thirsty strands, powered by moisture-locking oils to help build a protective barrier around your curls. This product is especially beneficial for those who have low porosity, or those looking tomaintainsoftness while reducing the risk of breakage.
Post-swim
Now that you’ve had a dip in the pool, when it comes to curly hair there's no time to wait!It'srecommended to wash your hair immediately after being in contact with chlorine to help revitalise your curls and minimisethe risk of damage and breakage.
Step 1: ShampooThe deeply nourishing Moroccanoil shampoo is essential after a swim, designed to rejuvenate your curls. This deeply nourishing formula is packed full of strengthening oils and argan butter to intensely nourish and condition from root-to-tip,helping to soften the look of frizz while it cleanses away impurities and build-up.
For an even deeper cleanse, go in with the Flora & Curl Coconut Mint Curl Refresh Clay Wash. The revitalising formula really resets the scalp, making it an excellent choice for anyone who suffers from dryness or dandruff.
Saturate your hair with a rich conditioner to replenish any moisture that's been lost. Make sure to be extra careful when detangling, as your hair may be a little weaker from being in the water. If you're not sure how to detangle your hair the curly way, check out our article below.
Best brushes and combs for curly hair
Make detangling a dream and discover the best tools for the job with our carefully curated list of the best brushes and combs for curly hair.
For those with coarser hair types, the Imbue Curl Respecting Conditioner is just the ticket. Designed with hair types 3 and 4 in mind, this replenishing formula is infused with Coconut Oil to help your hair hold onto this newfound moisture. The formula has plenty of slip to make sure detangling is a breeze, transforming wash day to a dream from a nightmare.
Once you've rinsed out your conditioner and dried your hair with a microfibre towel, go in with your favourite curl cream. Fuelled by naturally-derived oils, the Flora & Curl Sweet Hibiscus Curl Activating Lotion packs just the hydration you'll need after a long day in the water.
The final step is a rich oil that will keep your hair frizz-free against the summer humidity. The Kerastase Curl Manifesto Huile Sublime Repair Oil is a salon-favourite and will leave your hair feeling silkier than ever before, graced with a natural-looking shine.
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