Summer wavy hair guide

Summer is just around the corner, so it’s time to get your waves ready for the sunshine.

Constant sun exposure can zap moisture from your hair, leaving it dry, brittle and frizzy.

This can cause lasting damage as your strands become more fragile and prone to breakage.

We’ve rounded up our top tips to help protect and prep your hair for the warmer months ahead...

1. Air dry your waves

During the warmer months, air drying is the way forward.

It’s both the healthiest way to dry your hair and the best way to retain that crucial moisture you’ve added.

I use the Merwave microfibre hair wrap for 20 minutes to absorb excess moisture, then let my hair air dry naturally.

My waves are softer, less frizzy and healthier as a result.

2. Protect your waves when swimming

Saltwater and chlorine can harm wavy hair.

Hair is porous. It soaks up whatever it touches.

Before swimming, wet your hair with fresh water.

This helps stop it from soaking up as much salt or chlorine.

Add a little oil for extra protection.

It helps lock in moisture and keep dryness out.

Wearing a swim cap can help hold the oil and water in place.

After your swim, rinse with fresh water again to wash out any leftover salt or chlorine.

This helps keep your hair soft, healthy and frizz-free.

3. Clarify your hair to combat grease

Hot weather makes your scalp produce more oil.

Add sweat and sun cream and your hair can start to look greasy fast.

Washing more often can help.

But using a clarifying shampoo is the best way to remove any product buildup.

I always use a scalp brush to stimulate my scalp and unclog the pores.

Follow with a deep conditioning mask to bring back moisture.

4. Style your hair up

Prevent your wavy hair from getting tangled and dried out further by the sun, wind or water by keeping your hair tied back.

A simple plait or bun works perfectly to keep your hair neat and tangle-free.

I often find that a French plait works miracles with keeping my wavy hair in tact.

You can protect your hair further by keeping it covered by a trendy sun hat.

5. Apply a deep conditioning mask

Keeping your hair deeply hydrated prevents frizz and breakage in the heat.

Use a deep conditioning mask once or twice a week.

Shampoo as usual, then apply the mask and leave it on for 30-60 minutes.

The mask's nutrients will penetrate your hair, restoring its strength and health.

Your waves will be more defined and less frizzy.