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Here are 10 tips to maintain
healthy tresses this summer:
1.
Beat The Heat.
Summertime is warmer and the sun is shining brighter and
longer. While some sunlight is necessary, due to its wealth
of Vitamin D, too much sun can lead to fading color,
dryness, brittle ends and over processing any chemical
applications such as color or texturizers. You may apply
grapeseed oil, which protects against natural heat. Minimize
the use of heat tools by opting to air dry, stretch the hair
or simply rock your natural texture.
2.
Summer Surfer.
While water is essential for healthy hair, skin and nails,
certain types of water can be damaging to them. Salt water
may cause hair to be coarse while chlorinated water may
cause breakage. Protect the hair before jumping in by
dampening the hair with water then coating it with coconut
oil or some conditioner. This will help repel water and
minimize swelling and frizz. After water-play, use a
swimmer’s shampoo to remove chlorine, then follow-up with
your normal shampoo to restore the pH balance.
3.
Cover Up.
These aren’t just for swimsuits anymore. If you’ll be out in
the sun for prolonged hours, try covering the hair with a
breathable scarf or headband to minimize sweating and the
frizzing of the hair which may lead to shrinkage. A
wide-brimmed sun hat will also protect your face and
shoulders from direct sunlight. Covering up also protects
the hair from harmful UV rays and helps retain moisture.
4.
Style For A While.
Avoid over manipulating your hair by wearing protective
styles or a chic, short haircut. Individual two-strand
twists or braids, without extensions, can be fashioned into
many different styles such as buns, French twists and curls.
These styles can be worn for several days to two weeks at a
time without damaging the hair. Protective styles can be
classy by day, sassy by night and elegant for a weekend
soiree.
5.
Oil Strike.
Oil is like liquid gold. Get rich, shiny hair by applying a
light oil. Don’t forget the scalp because it is even more
important than the ends. Oils can help tame frizz, add
sheen, create softness, repel water and assist with
detangling when applied before shampooing the hair.
6.
Clip The Tips.
If you notice that your ends are split, frayed uneven, or
brittle, it may be time for a trim. Be careful to only trim
what is necessary and avoid giving yourself a complete
haircut. A trim can restore the shape of your style,
rejuvenate curls and give the hair life.
7.
Don’t Drown Your Crown.
Healthy hair isn’t weighed down with products like curling
custards, creams, lotions and potions. A little goes a long
way and heavy products aren’t always needed in the summer.
Keep your hair and scalp free from product buildup and your
styles will last longer and retain their texture better.
8.
The Aloe Hero.
Aloe Vera is excellent for moisture. You can add it to a
spray bottle with a little water and use it as a detangler,
curl refresher or to soothe sore and itchy scalp. Aloe can
alleviate the discomfort of sunburn and take the sting out
of scalp abrasions. Keep some on hand for regular use.
9.
An Apple A Day.
The use of apple cider vinegar (ACV) can help strip hair of
dirt, lint and debris that coats the hair strands. Combine
it with a little baking soda and lemon juice and you have a
wonderful detox that also works great on locs. Apple cider
vinegar not only removes buildup, but it leaves the hair
soft and shiny. ACV can fight off infections, remove
dandruff, and it can even be used to cure indigestion or
to lose weight!
10.
Be Curly And Free.
Curls have a mind and life all their own. They will behave
differently based on a variety of factors such as the
temperature, humidity levels and whether or not you are
feeling well. Embrace your curls the way they are and you
will experience a new freedom! Be prepared with a small bag
in your glove compartment that has a few essentials like a
spray bottle with water and aloe, a thin black headband for
puffs, an accessory such as a flower clip or head wrap, some
cute earrings and a lip gloss or go-to color. If you can
embrace the journey, you will be a happy traveler.
Summertime is made for fun;
Enjoy long days out in the sun! Rock those twists, coils,
braids and buns; embrace your natural beauty and experience
self-love.
(Poem by Megan Davis)
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