Though spring time temperatures still fluctuate between warm and cool, it’s time to put your hair game into gear. April showers might throw a wrench in your plans, but that doesn’t mean your hair has to suffer. Spring hair care is super important if you’re looking to pave the road towards luscious summer locks.
Though the coming humidity is not always a fan favorite, the winter dryness takes a huge toll on your tresses. From hats, to temperature changes from going indoors to outdoors and vice versa, your hair has likely been roughed up and become less manageable over the past few months.
Here’s six do’s and don’ts you should consider when it comes to your spring hair care regimen. These six will give you a great foundation for renewing and nurturing your hair.
Do: Get a trim!
After being in hibernation mode all winter long, your hair definitely has a few split ends. While you may try to hang on to them to keep your length, it’s best to snip them as soon as possible. Contrary to popular belief, the only way to get rid of split or dead ends is by cutting them off. No amount of deep conditioner or in-salon treatments can cure them.
Trimming sooner rather than later is better. Your ends can continue to split up the hair shaft, meaning you will have to cut off more in the long run just to maintain the health of your hair. When it comes to spring hair care, trims are non-negotiable. And depending on when you had your last trim, you should cut at least 1/2″ -1″ off of the ends. You and your hair will be thankful you did it!
Don’t: Over Wash Your Hair.
Now that the weather is warming up, you will most likely be doing your hair more often than not. While the feeling of a freshly cleaned scalp is heavenly, too many washes can have adverse effects. Not only will your scalp produce more sebum, but the oils won’t have enough time to travel down the hair shaft to keep your strands moisturized. This eventually leads to weak and dehydrated strands.
Try dry shampoo. This will absorb any oil and sweat. It’s great if you workout daily, or are just trying to go longer in between washes. If you’re looking for a more natural version of dry shampoo, arrowroot powder or cornstarch work great too!
Do: Scalp Treatments!
Your hair can only be as healthy as your scalp, and I will stand by that until my last breath (a little dramatic, I know). But seriously, your scalp is where your hair grows from, and a healthy scalp microbiome is important for healthy hair growth. Scalp treatments remove any product buildup or debris and will soothe and moisturize. There’s currently so many treatments on the market and it might take some trial and error to find one that’s meant for you. But I promise, once you find one, you will incorporate it to more than just your spring hair care regimen.
Don’t: Rub shampoo on the ends of your hair!
Your ends are the driest part of your hair, as they’ve been on your head the longest, and are furthest away from your scalp. Essentially, your ends will be cleansed as your rinse the shampoo out.
Even though we all wash our hair, many don’t realize that there is an incorrect way to do so. Shampoo should be emulsified between your hands and then applied to the scalp and new growth. Massage gently with your fingertips, working in circular motion to increase circulation (No need to use your nails to scratch the scalp as this can cause small abrasions) .
Do: Apply a deep conditioning masque!
Application should be at least once a month depending on your hair needs. After coming out of a dry winter season, your hair probably needs more moisture. Without the proper hydration levels, hair might feel dry and brittle. You want to make sure your hair is a healthy and hydrated canvas before spending those summer days out in the UV rays or picking up those hot tools.
Don’t: Deep condition too often!
Yes, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Healthy locks consist of an equal balance of protein and moisture. Too much moisture will keep your hair limp and lifeless, while too much protein can lead to dry, brittle hair.
Depending on your hair type and texture (and the deep conditioner you choose), its best to start off with a deep conditioning treatment once every two weeks. From there, you will able to easily decipher if your hair needs more or less.
These tips can help to nurture your hair back to hydration and manageability after the winter hiatus. Spring time is a great time for renewal and paving the way to gorgeous hair come summertime. What are some of your spring hair care do’s and don’ts?