In most parts of the world, lockdown and social distancing are still happening. For many, the salons are still closed but may open up towards mid-June or in July. Some people are working from home, enjoying having extra time without commuting and others are furloughed and have even more time for self-care and checking off those items on your at-home bucket list like organising your closet, that stack of paperwork in the office, or just having time to read your favourite noel. No matter what you're spending your lockdown doing, many of us could use a little hair-TLC ready for summer. Here are 8 ways to care for your summer hair in order.
1. Freshly shampoo and cleanse your hair
You may only wash your hair once a week, twice a week or a little more often, but when it's time to shampoo reach for your favourite Abyssinian Haircare product and cleanse that hair. We recommend our Superfood Recovery Shampoo or Sunday Detox Exfoliating Shampoo for the first round and the Abyssinian Oil Shampoo for the second round to deep clean your scalp.
It's recommended to shampoo your hair twice. The first pass will remove dirt and oil from the scalp and the second round will deep clean and remove any remaining debris. There's no need to cleanse all the way to the tips of your hair with shampoo. Just use your fingertips to massage the shampoo into your scalp. Then, let the water run down to your ends. Your ends will get enough cleansing from the water runoff.
Since you don't need much shampoo per wash, it's always best to use a good quality shampoo with quality ingredients. You're getting excellent value for money this way since your shampoo will last for two months or more.
2. Condition your hair to repair damage
Generously apply conditioner to the ends of your hair to repair any damage. We recommend our Abyssinian Oil Conditioner. Conditioner is key to smooth hair as it smooths down your hair's cuticle and adds body. Quality conditioner will not weigh down the hair or add excess oil and a good conditioner will also protect your hair from future breakage and thinning. Conditioner hydrates, detangles, and protects the hair.
3. Apply a hair mask
Once a month (or more often if you like), it's a great idea to apply a hair mask such as our Protein Shake Hair Mask. Hair masks help heal damaged hair and contain rich, health-inducing ingredients such as natural oils in heavier concentrations than normal conditioners. You can apply the hair mask from root to tip to nourish your hair. You can apply a hair mask during a long, relaxing bath as it should sit on the hair for at least three to five minutes.
4. Air dry your hair and then blow dry it
To start healthily air drying your hair, use your Self-Care Hair Towel towel. Then, since we explain in our post on benefits of air-drying your hair, it's best to limit the time your hair is wet, once your hair's initial moisture has been wicked away, blow dry your hair to finish the drying process and limit the time you've applied heat to your hair.
The technique for drying straight hair differs from curly hair and those with curly hair may use a diffuser and scrunch their hair as they dry and those with straight hair may lightly comb and straighten the hair. But, either way, once your hair is conditioned properly and soft, it will make drying your hair easier as it will be healthier overall. You can use our Silk Milk to help detangle before you brush to prevent breakage.
Once dry, finish your ends off with a little Abyssinian Original Oil to lock in the shine.
5. Trim the split ends (optional)
For the healthiest hair, you'll want to trim your split ends. Split ends can climb up the hair, causing more split ends. So, every few weeks, you'll want to trim away any damage. If you don't feel comfortable doing it, you can ask your social-distancing partner or it's a good idea to wait until your salon is open. But you can watch some videos on how to trim your hair a small amount without ruining your style, length, or creating a wonky haircut!
6. Tie your hair up loosely
If you like to tie up your hair, it's best to do so with a scrunchie or hairband that won't break your hair. You can braid or plait your hair and tie it loosely, put it into a loose bun or ponytail or even clip it back. Be sure your hair accessories won't break your hair and especially don't use elastic bands as that can break and damage your hair.
7. Eat healthily and care for yourself
Eating healthily creates healthier hair so be sure to get the right nutrients, vitamins, and minerals in your diet so it shines through in your locks. Stress can also cause your hair to thin and fall out so try and limit your exposure to stress with plenty of rest and self-care.
8. Be sure to drink water and get exercise
Most of our bodies are made of water so ensure you are drinking plenty of water and taking some exercise. In many counties, you can walk outside in the fresh air and, in other countries, you're limited to indoor exercise. There are plenty of free apps and YouTube videos that show at-home workouts, best for large or limited spaces. Be sure to get some movement each day, even if it's only dancing for half an hour to your favourite songs or jogging on the spot while listening to your favourite podcast.
Enjoy these tips on ways to take care of your summer hair. Tag us on your Instagram to show that you're using our products in your #selfcare routine. As always, stay safe, stay home if you can, and let us know how you're doing.
Photo credits: Pinterest