Bad hair days are the last thing anyone wants to deal with on their summer travels. Unfortunately, summer weather can dry the hair and scalp causing excess oil production and frizzy, fly-away hair that defies any attempts to keep it under control. Add perspiration, time constraints and minimal hair styling facilities and you have the potential for a trip that is one long string of bad hair days. The following travel tips for your hair will help to keep it in line and looking great so you can avoid those summer hair blues and make the most of your time away.
The pre-travel trim
Colouring, bleaching, perming, styling and hot summer sun all damage hair to some extent, causing it to dry out and split. Before traveling it is advisable to have any split, dry ends trimmed off as this will instantly give the rest of the hair a healthier, shiny appearance and extra bounce. Hair is also less likely to split further and become frizzy when the ends of the hair shafts are smooth due to a recent trim.
Wash hair less frequently
Even mild shampoo strips some of the natural oil from the hair and scalp, prompting oil glands to produce more to keep hair and skin moisturized. Hot sun and wind dry the hair and scalp which also prompts more oil production. When hair is shampooed less frequently, less natural oil is stripped away and oil production begins to slow down. If your scalp has already adjusted to less frequent washing before traveling, the problem of excessively oily hair will be lessened during your time away from home when you may not be able to wash it as often.
Scarves
Purchase or borrow a few lightweight cotton scarves to match the outfits you are taking away with you. Before you leave home, practice wrapping, tying and creating new, trendy ways to wear them in and over your hair that suit your style and personality. Scarves are a great way to keep hair tidy when all else has failed. They also serve to protect it from the sun and wind.
Anti-static
Sudden temperature, air pressure and humidity changes during summer can cause a build up of static electricity in your body and hair producing the “OMG did you stick your finger in a power socket?” look. Traveling makes you more susceptible to these sudden changes so it may be necessary to tame your fly-away hair. Applying a small amount of essential rosemary oil to the ends of the hair then lightly misting with a fine spray of cool water will help it to settle and discharge. Rosemary oil acts in a similar way to the hair’s natural oils, providing extra shine and moisture to the ends where it needs it the most.
Keep it simple and natural
Styling products and appliances take up time and space, both of which are at a premium while traveling. Keeping your hair style as simple and natural as you are comfortable with will save precious space and time that are better used for more important things like clothing, souvenirs and sightseeing. Besides, styling products need to be washed out daily and artificially drying your hair causes all the problems mentioned above to multiply. Leave them at home and take full advantage of the natural glow your hair takes on without them.