If you have noticed your hair start to change in recent weeks, you are not alone.
The hot summer weather, soaring temperatures and humidity can wreak havoc on even the most well-groomed barnet, with breakages and frizziness more common.
While this can’t be avoided completely, many women could be aggravating this with the day-to-day treatment of their hair, CEO of skin and hair specialists Este Medical Group, Sam Cinkir, warned.
He said: “Summer can be a tricky time for our hair, and it’s important to know how to adapt your grooming routine to keep your locks looking and feeling their best.
Always use a heat protectant when using a hairdryer, straighteners or tongs
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GETTY“Increased exposure to heat and humidity can leave hair at risk of problems such as dryness, breakage, frizz and split ends, among others. If you find your hair is particularly dry at the moment, then there is a common error that many people make that you absolutely should avoid repeating.
“Using heated tools to dry your locks without first applying a spray protector is a big mistake, as it can worsen heat damage, making it look dry or dull.”
Using a hairdryer, straighteners, or tongs can add even more stress to heat-fatigued hair. But if you must use heat, invest in a good protection product and opt for the lowest heat setting as possible.
Cinkir said: “If possible, air drying is recommended as it is the gentlest way to dry, but of course, there are times when that just isn’t practical.
“If you must use heated tools, then use a low heat setting and remember the protectant spray.” Heat protectant often works by creating a shield that helps lock in moisture and control frizz.
It is not the only product worth applying when the sun comes out, however. While most people are diligent with SPF on their skin when the sun comes out, you could benefit from extending this to your hair.
Cinkir added: “I certainly recommend using sunscreen on your hair during summer to protect against heat damage. It’s well-known that the sun’s UV rays can cause damage to your skin, but it also applies to your hair, too.
“There are specialised sunscreens for your hair, such as mists and oils, but regular sunscreen can also be used effectively.”
Using heat can cause hair to appear dry and frizzy, and encourage breakages
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GETTYWant to give your hair an extra boost? The expert shared five foods to eat for shinier, fuller-looking locks.
Focusing on meals high in protein, healthy fats and vitamins will give your barnet a welcome boost.
Cinkir said: “Warmer temperatures, increased exposure to the sun and higher levels of humidity can all combine to cause problems for our hair in summer. You might find your locks more susceptible to issues such as breakage, split ends, frizziness or even hair loss.
“What we eat and drink plays an important role in keeping hair healthy not just through summer, but throughout the year. During the hotter months, however, it is advisable to place a greater importance on foods rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids and certain vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C and E, iron and zinc.”