Last updated: 17-06-2022
Summer can be a time for wonders. There are the blue waves of the ocean, the breeze of a summer night and the opportunity to explore and create new memories within a few months. At least, that's the gist of it. Unfortunately, with each summer being hotter than the last, everyone's summer plans have gotten a bit bleak. Being out in the sun isn't nearly as exciting as it used to be, and there are many reasons for that. The top ones are the damage to hair and skin. The high temperatures yearly are pretty detrimental to our skin and hair, and if you think you've been shedding hair like a snake sheds its skin, you're not alone. Research says losing more hair in the summer isn't a myth; it's a fact that many people experience.
Why do you lose more hair in the summer?
You're probably wondering why does the temperature affect hair fall? On the surface, it may not seem like a relevant issue, but there's a lot more to the story than just the heat causing hair to shed. Here are some reasons why you're experiencing more hair loss in the summer than usual.
Your hormones are off-balance
Our bodies are used to working at a specific temperature. When the external temperature rises, our bodies respond by altering the production of hormones and secretions. Testosterone, in particular, increases with a rise in outside temperature, reaching its maximum levels in the summer. Testosterone contributes to hair loss and is one of the prime factors behind summer shedding.
Air conditioning's taking away the moisture.
It feels challenging to go through the summer without air conditioning now. Unfortunately, while air conditioners create great convenience, they also add to our problems. And we're not just referring to global warming. Air conditioning tends to dry your hair out, leaving less moisture in. Thus, your hair grows dry and brittle and starts to fall off.
You're brushing your hair when it's wet.
It's common for us to brush our hair right after a shower, a swim in the pool or even when it's soaked through with sweat. This might not seem serious, but it could very well be the reason behind your excessive hair fall. When hair is wet and you brush through it, it exerts more force on the roots and often ends up breaking the hair off from the root.
What are some ways around summer shedding?
So now that you know the reasons behind your excessive summer hair loss, you're probably wondering how to combat it. Of course, there are many medicines, such as Propecia, to help treat baldness. Yet we've also put together some tips and tricks against the problem.
Find the right cause.
The first step to fighting any problem is identifying its root cause. You might be aware of the major reasons why people experience hair loss, but narrowing down what is the most likely cause for you will make treatment more manageable. That's why you should visit the doctor as soon as you start seeing more hair than usual on the bathroom floor.
Lock in moisture
The biggest threat to healthy hair is losing moisture. That's why massaging your scalp with oil is so important. In terms of what oil is safe for the summer, doctors recommend coconut oil. The reason is simple; coconut oil has rejuvenating properties. It helps your hair deal with hair fall and repair quickly. You can also add other carrier oils like almond or rosemary oil. Make sure to massage the oil into your scalp while it's warm and keep your fingers moving in delicate patterns. If your movements are too harsh, you'll break off more hair in the process, ultimately defeating the purpose. You can massage the coconut oil two-three times a week for optimum results.
Go sulfate-free and start deep conditioning.
What shampoo and conditioner you use will impact the strength of your hair and how much it can withstand the weather changes. Sulfate products strip your hair of moisture and lead to excessive breakage. That's why doctors recommend going sulfate-free. Another critical step to focus on is how you apply conditioner. Make sure to weave the product into your hair and leave it for a few minutes. You can also make hair masks at home from ingredients you use daily, like eggs and yoghurt. They will add ample moisture to the hair and help counteract the drying effects of the environment.
Dial down on the heat.
If it's one thing you must avoid this summer, it's more heat. You can try drying your hair with a microfiber towel before going in with the blow dryer. This decreases your exposure to the heat and, ultimately, lessens the damage. It would be best if you also avoided straightening or curling your hair using heat-styling techniques. There are plenty of heat-free methods nowadays that will give you great results as well.
Add some yoga to your routine.
You probably think a downward dog can't possibly help my hair get more robust, but that's where you're wrong. Activities like yoga increase the blood flow to your scalp and support the overall blood circulation in your body. That means any nutrients that you take will reach the scalp faster. This, in turn, guarantees better hair health. So, try yoga if you've been thinking about picking up a hobby this summer!
Amp up your daily protein.
No matter what products you use and how much you avoid leaving the house, the temperature around you is rising, and it will impact your hair one way or another. That's why focusing on your internal strength is essential. Every part of your body uses proteins to heal and to get stronger. That's why a diet rich in protein and Omega-3 during the summer is vital.
Some other tips
By now, you've probably better understood how to care for your hair this summer. These are a few extra tips and tricks you can add to your daily routine.
- Let your hair air dry instead of using a blow dryer
- Don't tie your hair up while it's wet
- Change your hairbrush for a wide-tooth comb when your hair is still wet
- Make sure your scalp is clean
- Wear a hat when you go out in the heat
- Use hair gel when your hair is wet instead of waiting for it to dry
- Avoid hot showers
A summer of flawless hair
With these tips under your belt, there's nothing that should be keeping you from your summer of fun and flawless hair. Remember to keep your diet in check, avoid stripping products, and you're all set for the best summer!