Summer is such a beautiful time to connect with nature. We love to swim, sunbathe, and soak in the season. But all that sun, salt water, and chlorine can be harsh on your hair, especially if it’s long or naturally dry. If you live in a warm climate, love to swim, or simply want to enjoy summer without damaging your hair, I’ve got you covered. These gentle, summer haircare tips will help keep your hair healthy, soft, and protected all summer long. You can also watch the full video linked at the bottom of this post.
1. Wear a Wide-Brim Hat
Sunshine is nourishing for the soul, but too much of it can dry out your hair and scalp. One of my favorite summer haircare tips is wearing a wide-brim hat. Not only helps protect your face and shoulders, but also shields your hair from UV exposure and dehydration. Plus, it’s stylish!
2. Apply Natural Sunscreen to Your Scalp
If you’re not wearing a hat, you’ll want to protect your scalp from sunburn, especially along your part line or any thinning spots.
Look for a zinc oxide-based sunscreen that’s:
- Reef safe
- Non-nanoized
- Free of synthetic chemicals
Brands I like:
Yes, it might leave a bit of white residue… but that’s better than dealing with a red, flaky, painful scalp. Ouch!
3. Braid Your Hair Before Swimming
Tangles and breakage are much more likely when your hair is loose in the water. I recommend gently detangling your hair, applying a little oil, and putting it in a protective braid before swimming. This helps reduce knots and protects your strands from salt or chlorine exposure.
4. Wet Your Hair Before Jumping In
Your hair acts like a sponge — so if it’s already soaked with fresh water, it will absorb less chlorine or salt water.
Try:
- Rinsing your hair in the shower before you swim
- Or bring a bottle of clean water to saturate your hair at the beach or pool
This simple trick helps prevent damage and dryness.
5. Oil Your Hair Before Swimming
Salt water may give you that beachy look, but it can also seriously dry out your hair. Applying a natural oil before swimming creates a protective barrier. This is an essential summer haircare tip!
Great oils to try:
- Argan
- Coconut
- Jojoba
- Avocado
- Macadamia nut
- Olive oil
This is one of my favorite hair-saving habits for summer!
6. Wash Hair Right After Swimming
Don’t let salt or chlorine sit on your hair too long. As soon as you get home, gently wash and condition your hair to remove buildup and prevent damage.
Tips:
Avoid brushing salty hair when dry — it’s too fragile
Use a natural, gentle shampoo + conditioner
If your hair is tangled, apply extra conditioner and gently finger-detangle or use a brush designed for wet hair
7. Clarify with Apple Cider Vinegar
Swimming in chlorinated water? Rinse with apple cider vinegar (ACV) to help remove residue and restore your hair’s natural balance.
How to do it:
- Mix 1 part raw ACV with 4 parts water
- Pour over hair after shampooing and conditioning
- Rinse out or leave in briefly before rinsing
You can learn how to make a herbal apple cider vinegar rinse here.
8. Give Your Hair Some Extra Love
Summer is the perfect time to pamper your scalp and strands.
I love:
- Brushing with a wooden bristle brush to distribute oils and massage the scalp
- Using Blue Beautifly’s Organic Amalaki Scalp Oil (my holy grail scalp treatment)
- Doing DIY hair masks like my Avocado & Coconut Milk Hair Mask
Treat your hair like you would your skin — with love and nourishment.
9. Limit Heat Styling
If your hair is already getting sun exposure, try giving it a break from heat tools. Let it air dry, embrace your natural waves, or try heatless styles like braids or twists. Your strands will thank you.
Final Thoughts
Summer should be about enjoying yourself — not stressing about hair damage. With a few intentional rituals and natural products, you can protect your hair while still soaking up the sunshine.
Watch the Full Video
Prefer to watch me walk through these summer hair care tips?
