While enjoying a hard-earned vacation, the last thing anyone wants to worry about is whether or not their hair is behaving on the beach or at the pool. When you add up all of the elements working against your locks (such as UV rays from the sun, humidity, saltwater or chlorine), though, it can be a recipe for a hair disaster. To make sure your mane looks as good as your phenomenal vacation wardrobe, follow these tips to keep it healthy and protected.
Take a Break from Styling Products
In addition to giving hair a more natural appearance, ditching harsh styling products like gels and hairsprays will actually help it behave. If you have thin or fine hair that tends to go flat, shampoo only every two or three days to boost natural texture and volume. Dry shampoos and sea salt sprays will enhance the beachy effect even more. If your hair is dry, though, use extra conditioner and a hydrating styling lotion containing coconut oil or shea butter for soft, silky hair that’s beautifully under control.
Brush only if you must
This is a rule that should always be followed but becomes even more essential after a day at the beach. Salty ocean breezes are sure to whip anyone’s hair into a dry, fragile mess, so take extra care not to break it by combing only after conditioning thoroughly and adding a leave-in for extra comb-gliding protection. Also, choose a comb with rubber-coated tips that will easily detangle hair while preventing breakage.
Ditch the Dryer
Another tip that should apply year-round but is even more important on days spent in the elements is letting your hair air dry whenever possible to spare it from extra heat damage. If you have longer hair, try adding some leave-in conditioner while it’s wet and coil into a bun, which will give you soft, healthy waves when you take the bun down after some air drying.
Coconut Oil
A fantastic all-around beauty product, coconut oil is a great tropical-scented addition to anyone’s hair care arsenal. It works incredibly well to keep the ends of your hair soft and moisturized and won’t leave it greasy. Rub a small amount between your hands, then distribute through your hair to seal the ends before hitting the beach. Coconut oil also makes a luxurious pre-shampoo hair mask when hair needs a little TLC.
Get your fix of healthy fats
Healthy fats are beneficial to the body in so many ways, including your hair, making it stronger, shinier and more supple which means it will better stand up to the abuse it encounters at the beach. Make a point to eat a diet including easily digested light, raw fats including nuts, avocados, smoothies with coconut oil, shredded coconut and salads with flax, hemp or olive oil.
Bobby Pins
These multitaskers are a lifesaver when trying to control your hair yet look put together. They aren’t as damaging as hair elastics, which is a plus with dried-out beach strands. They can be used to create a countless number of styles and updos including classics like the sleek bun or low ponytail, which are perfect for the beach. Because they are inexpensive, keep flyaways off your face and won’t break delicate hair, bobby pins should be in everyone’s beach bag.
