As you change out your wardrobe and swap the chunky sweaters and jeans for lighter fabrics, summer dresses, and tanks, it's time to start thinking about your hair, too. For most people, summer hair trends make them think of beachy waves or sun-lightened hair, and an overall effortlessness that is conducive to lounging around in the heat. While these summer hair trends are certainly a good place to start, maintaining their association with the summer season year after year, there is so much more to summer hair than the obvious.
Beyond summer hair trends and the cuts and colors that will help you achieve a look that is totally on trend, caring for your hair appropriately is vital. While winter is synonymous with dry hair and static, summertime can also take a toll on your tresses. Just think of all that time your hair spends in a chlorinated pool, all the salt buildup, and the heat damage from the sun blazing down on your strands. Chances are your hair's needs will change with the seasons, so it's important to change out your hair care products accordingly.
So whether you're wondering what type of summer hairstyle you should rock, what color inspiration you should share with your stylist, or how to ensure your hair doesn't feel fried by the end of summer, we've got everything you need to know with this summer hair trends guide. Not looking to make a major change with your hair this season? No problem, we've got the lowdown on how to achieve easy, on-trend hairstyles, plus foolproof ways to overcome common summer hair problems.
For most people, extra hydration (since you'll be washing your hair more often) and frizz-taming products (to fight the humidity), are the staples of an effective summer hair care routine.
Summer hair trends: what to ask your stylist for?
While the summertime doesn't necessarily require a drastic cut, it's a good excuse to change things up a bit, especially after being stuck in isolation for the past few months. Whether you just want to add some texture and layers to give your hair a more effortless, lightweight feel or are looking to dial up the drama and make a statement with your look, there's a summer hairstyle that's right for you.
The wavy lob
This textured, asymmetric look is equal parts edgy and chic, and it's a great way to keep your hair off your back when it's hot out. If you tend to prefer longer hair, the lob is much less daunting than a bob. Plus, it's easy to grow out your hair again; unlike with a bob, there's no awkward in-between phase. Simply ask your stylist for a layered lob with some face-framing pieces. When it comes to styling, we suggest curling your hair in alternating directions to give you a more tousled look and prevent the curls from merging together.
Baby bangs
A retro vibe for the daring gal, baby bangs are a great summer hair trend to give you a rocker-chic vibe for the summer time. While this look isn't for everyone, it's certainly show-stopping. We recommend this look if your hair is already on the straight side as it can be a bit of a nuisance to style, especially on a humid day. This high fashion look is a great way to crank up the drama...and show off those eyebrows! Not sure if bangs are right for you? Here's everything you need to know before making the chop.
Long and textured
Not to be confused with beachy waves, this "it" summer hairstyle is all about natural movement. Rather than discernable, full-bodied curls, think of natural kinks and undone movement. To achieve this look, ask your stylist for long layers that will wear well when you air dry your hair. Depending on your natural texture and desired length, your stylist should be able to customize the look to suit you.
Summer hair color: balayage hair extensions
So you're thinking of going lighter this summer? Surprise, surprise. Lift your color, lift your spirits, is what you might be thinking, but there are ways to summer-up your color without turning yourself into a bleach blonde. Still, it's fun to brighten up your look with some balayage or highlights. Whether you have balayage in your natural hair or are just looking to experiment with color, Luxy Hair extensions are perfect. For a sun-kissed look without damage to your natural hair, simply clip in a set of balayage extensions, or add volume and length to already highlighted hair.
While going lighter is always in style for summer, this year, a cool-toned, ashy, or muted take on traditional shades is what's trending. Forget warm-toned, Baywatch-inspired hues and ask your stylist to cool down your color with a toner.
Summer hair trends for 2021
If you're not looking to make a major chop, no problemo! There are lots of easy ways you can achieve trending summer hairstyles this year without doing anything daring. Summer hair is all about no-fuss looks—whether you’re a beginner, a pro, or somewhere in between, there’s a hairstyle for you. Here are some of our favorite looks for summer 2021.
Summer hair care 101
When it comes to summer hair care, it's important to adapt your routine accordingly in the warmer months. We recommend switching out your regular shampoo for a clarifying one to help strip away chlorine and build up (hello, sweat and sand) along with using a UV protectant spray when you are out in the sun. Anti-frizz or shine serums can also be helpful to help prevent the humidity from ruining your 'do, while also helping to lock in moisture. We also suggest applying a hair mask more often in the summertime to keep your hair soft and healthy.
Have a particular summer hair issue you're trying to combat? We show you how to beat the most common problems below!
Summer Hair Problem: Sweaty, Greasy Roots
This might be one of the most common problems most ladies face during the hot summer months. As the sun beats down on top of us, the first place to start sweating is the top of our head, leading to greasy roots. But don't sweat it (get it?)...we've got the solution to this summer hair care problem.
Solution: Dry Shampoo And Cold Hair Dryer
Dry shampoo should be a staple in your summer hair care arsenal. Make it a habit to keep a small bottle of dry shampoo in your purse...we guarantee, this will be your bestie for the summer. If you start feeling those roots getting a bit too greasy for your liking, pop into the washroom and add a quick spray of dry shampoo to the roots. This helps soak up any of the natural oil build up and dries up that pesky grease and sweat right at the roots. If you want to go a step further and have access to a hair dryer, after using the dry shampoo, blast your hair dryer on cold and quickly blow out the roots of your hair. This will help dry up any extra moisture left over at the scalp, while giving your hair a quick refresh.
Feeling like getting crafty? Check out this article to learn how to create your own DIY dry shampoo.
Summer Hair Problem: Faded, Sun-Damaged Hair
In the peak of summer, the sun’s UV rays can be extremely damaging to not only our skin, but also our hair. Similar to our skin and using sunscreen, it is important to protect your hair from this damage. Protecting your hair from the heat not only maintains your hair's fresh, vibrant color, but also maintains its life into the summer months.
Solution: Wear Hats, Use SPF Conditioners, and Reduce Heat Styling
The best way to avoid damage from the sun to your hair is to literally have something stopping the UV rays to your hair strands. Wearing hats, bandanas, or headscarves are great solutions, as a literal sunscreen for your hair. And hey, they make super cute accessories as well. Not sure how to rock a hat or headscarf? Remember, when it comes to summer hair care, your tresses need some protection, too! Check out the article below for inspiration.
Next, we suggest applying a deep conditioner that contains SPF directly to your scalp, to protect your hair from any further damage and to use a UV protection spray on the ends of your hair. These products work just as sunscreen does for your skin, protecting your hair from the sun's harmful rays.
Lastly, ditch your hot tools this summer and embrace your natural hair. We recommend to heat style your hair as little as possible in general to maintain its health, however, the summer months are the best time to start experimenting with a heatless lifestyle. Instead of curling your hair, try applying some sea salt spray for effortless beach waves. And who needs a hair dryer when you can air dry your hair quickly using the natural heat outside? If you need some inspiration on how to achieve quick and easy hairstyles with no heat, click here.
Summer Hair Problem: Untamed Frizz
Frizzy hair is possibly our worst enemy during the summer, especially for the ladies with thick or curly hair! At times frizz can become uncontrollable if you don’t have the right strategy to tame it, but don’t worry, we're here to help. Say goodbye to your frizzy hair, because it's staying back in summer 2017 where it belongs.
Solution: Shampoo & Conditioner with Hair Oil, Pomade/Serums
Most people are typically familiar with using hair serums and hair oils after washing their hair to tame frizz. Using a shampoo and conditioner infused with antioxidant-rich hair oils like argan oil, however, may be your ticket to frizz-free hair. After using an oil-enriched shampoo and conditioner, you can follow with a pomade or hair serum to tame away any remaining frizz. Keep a small bottle of hair oil in your purse for those times that you feel the frizz coming on, and you'll be set for the summer.
An extra tip: rather than using hair brushes, which end up causing more frizz, use a wide tooth comb to brush through your hair while wet, helping to minimize frizz and maintain your natural curl.
Summer Hair Problem: Salt Water & Chlorine Damage
We know, there's nothing more amazing than diving right into the refreshing water on a hot summer day. We want you to go for it, but also take care of those luscious locks, as salt water & chlorine can do a ton of damage to your hair. Salt water causes your hair to dry out, while chlorine also causes dryness and can cause your dyed hair to turn green. Yes, for real, green!
Solution: Wash Hair Before & After Swimming and Use Weekly Hair Masks
When it comes to salt water, the key is to rinse your hair right after coming out of the water. Use a hydrating conditioner right after swimming to restore moisture back in your hair. If you are an avid beach-bum, make sure to apply a weekly deep conditioning hair mask to save your hair from drying out this summer.
Summer Hair Problem: Damage From Dying Your Hair Lighter
Dying your hair lighter for the summer months is so tempting. Who doesn’t want that beachy glow and sun-kissed brightness to your hair when it’s sunny out? While we do agree that light hair for the summer is great, the chemicals from the dye cause your hair to be more prone to damage. As long as you take the right steps to protect your newly dyed hair from the sun, we say to go for it!
Solution: Color Protecting Hair Products
If your hair is colored, we recommend going for a shampoo specifically designed for color-treated hair. Check the product's pH level and ensure that it is between 4.5-5.5 to prevent color from fading. Great hair products for dyed hair will also include ingredients like oils, sea kelp or algae, in order to lock in color and protect your hair from damage.
For more tips to maintain your hair's health this summer, click here. Do you have any special summer hair care tips? We'd love to hear them in the comments below.
