Shield your strands from the sun
When it comes to brittle ends, your hot hair tools aren’t the only culprits. “UV rays from the sun cause damage to the proteins within the hair, which can dry the scalp and weaken strands,” says Rob Smith, Dyson’s senior principal scientist. As a result, haircare brands are looking to skincare for innovation. Like an SPF for your strands, Aveda’s Sun Care Protective Hair Veil ($50; aveda.com.au) is a summery neroli-scented, water-resistant mist that shields the hair from UV damage.
Use the cold function on your dryer
It's time to get familiar with the cold shot function on your hair dryer. GHD's national education manager, Grant Norton, explains that a blast of cold air at the end of styling not only cools down your body temperature to prevent a sweaty forehead, it seals the hair cuticle which will set your style, increase the longevity of your blow-dry and add shine.
Embrace your natural texture
While humidity is high and giving hair added oomph, a texturising product such as Mr Smith Sea Salt Spray ($37; mr-smith.com.au) will turn frizz into lived-in waves. Simply plait into a loose braid for a pretty summer style.
Avoid extreme heat styling
Consider easing back on the heat styling, or choose tools with adjustable temperature settings and stick to using a medium-level heat. With it's impressive innovation, the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer ($549; shop.dyson.com.au) will only reach a maximum temperature of 105 degrees celsius and still manages dry strands in next to no time.
Rinse after swimming
While diving under the waves at the beach may feel like a cure-all for your skin, body and hangover, salt water isn't so great for hair. "If you’ve been to the beach, gently wash salt and sand out of your hair as soon as possible," advises Smith. "Salt from the sea won’t cause significant chemical damage but can increase friction during combing and brushing. Sand is also an abrasive material that can wear down the cuticle layers." Only brush hair once strands are fully dry to avoid breakage.
Always use a conditioner
Think of your conditioner as important as your daily moisturiser - you must replenish lost hydration to keep your mane healthy. Don't skip this step, especially in summer. "Using a conditioner is the best way to avoid tangles, knots and minimise breakage," adds Smith. As well as the drying effects of the sun, if you're applying a dry shampoo regularly to mop up oily roots, you might find your ends getting extra brittle. To rehydrate without wetting, spritz a dry conditioner such as Kevin Murphy's Young.Again (kevinmurphy.com.au) just on ends.
Your summer haircare kit
These beauty editor must-haves will spare your strands with summer.
