Trying to style your hair in the summer can be difficult with factors like humidity, heat, and those summer rain storms messing with your beauty and hair routine. No matter your hair type, there’s an effortless summer style out there for you.
For curly hair
If you’ve got ringlets and waves galore, the best way to style your mane is to define and emphasize the curls — without weighing them down with thick, heavy product.
“I use hair gel everyday right after I shower to define the curls, and then dry my hair. If I need to, I’ll put hair pudding in my hair that calms frizz and defines the curls. I also wet my hair throughout the day to refine the shape,” says junior at Sacred Heart University, Gianna Garcia.
For days when you don’t have time to do a multi-step hair routine and you’re running late to class or work, a classic top bun in an easy alternative. “If I have to look presentable I’ll put gel and hair pudding in my hair, if I can look more casual then I’ll put my hair in a bun, ponytail, or headband,” says Garcia.
If you’re struggling with dry curls in the summer, try not washing your hair everyday because your curls can lose their shape or texture. Hair styles get more relaxed and casual throughout the week or towards the end of your hair care cycle.
“The texture of my hair is loose-spiral curls and I have thick hair. If I shower the same day then I’ll wear my hair and let it air dry for an hour and a half and then blow dry it. On the second day I usually wet my hair and put in a headband or wear it half up half down with a clip or elastic. On the third day I put my hair in a ponytail or bun,” says Garcia.
Curly hair often has a mind of its own, so hairstyles like buns and up-dos are more attainable and less time consuming than heat-applied hairstyles in the summer months.
“I have kinky curly coils, type 3C. My go to hairstyle is usually a slicked up bun or upside down pineapple because it is the least damaging, easiest to maintain, and quickest hairstyle to do, that can last up to four days days if maintained well,” says junior at DePaul University, Chicago, Ylanis Babio.
The summer months can also have a drying effect on your hair and can make split ends more noticeable and brittle, so it’s important to keep your hair hydrated and conditioned, especially curly hair. Incorporate nourishing ingredients like coconut oil into your routine and add products that help hydrate and balance your hair.
“Since my hair is on the curlier side, it constantly needs moisture, so I usually use my spray bottle with water infused with coconut, olive, or jojoba oil and a curly hair gel or custard to define the curls,” says Babio.
Related: The Best Products To Keep Frizz Under Control During Summer Humidity
For straight hair
If you’ve got straight hair, there are so many versatile options for summer hair styles. Personally my favorite low maintenance summer hairstyle is a lob with beach waves. It radiates relaxed beach vibes, while still being classy and sophisticated.
A lob is a short, collarbone or shoulder-length hair style that is highlighted with balayage framing the face and towards the ends of your hair. The way this look frames cheekbones makes it super textured, and it immediately elevates your look. For heat-free hairstyles, French braids, fishtail braids and waterfall braids are right for you. If you are looking for a more relaxed look, then try a messy top-knot bun or a half-up half-down style.
A popular style that is trending now is honing your natural hair and letting it air dry. Heat and styling tools can be damaging to your hair, so there is no better time than the present to try out the natural look. Summer is a good time to embrace air drying your hair and going with easy, comfortable, effortless styles.
You can also elevate your everyday hair look this summer by rocking some accessories, like this faux-pearl barrette or a hair scarf like this pretty blue one.
Whether you are embracing your natural hair this summer, or trying something new like highlights and balayage, you are bound to rock whatever you wear. Summer is the perfect time to try something new and embrace styles that are easy to wear, especially on warm summer days.