As someone with thick, waist-length locks, I know how difficult it is to stay cool with long hair in the summer. On top of that, I have dark hair that absorbs the heat. Within minutes of walking outside on a scorching day, my hair will feel just as hot as the pavement (exaggeration) and sweat will make it stick to my forehead and neck (not an exaggeration).
But over the years, I’ve figured out how to wear my hair to minimize the sweat factor and keep it looking polished — and I’m sharing my tips with you. Ahead, I share my favorite products and hairdos that help me beat the heat. From anti-frizz products to chic hair accessories that keep your hair off your neck, find all my summertime hair essentials below.
How to stay cool with long hair during summer
There are plenty of things like neck fans and even cooling beauty products that can make the hot weather more bearable, but there are also easy switches you can make to your hair-styling routine. As a beauty editor who’s been dealing with this for years, my top tips are to minimize the amount of contact your hair has with your body and to opt for protective styles. This means going for ponytails, buns, braids and similar styles whenever the temperatures climb.
Products for managing long hair in summer
Fighting frizz in the summertime humidity is a real battle. I've been using this multiuse cream to help my hair stay moisturized and frizz-free. I apply it as an air-dry cream, but it can also be used as a heat protectant if you are blow-drying your hair.
The Hairdresser's Invisible Oil line has been an industry-favorite for years, and now the magic ingredient is incorporated into this styling cream. It's super lightweight with a serum-like consistency and can be used on wet or dry styles. I like to use it before putting hair in heatless curls or braids so that the waves last longer. A little goes a long way, so you may as well save some money and start out with the mini size to test it first.
My hair is naturally straight and tends to fall out of claw clips and buns easily. This texturizing spray gives it some grip but stays flexible. On days when I'm wearing my hair down, spraying it near my roots helps add volume too.
Slicked-back buns and ponytails are great for summer since they keep my hair off my neck. I wouldn't be able to do these styles without this cheap styling stick. I've tried many others that always leave a waxy feeling and greasy look in my hair. This one adds shine, smoothes down any bumps and holds my hair in place.
Since hair is already up against UV damage in the summertime, I try to minimize additional harm and avoid hot tools as often as possible. This heatless curling set is my go-to when I want to add volume to my natural hair. It's easy to wrap your wet hair around the rod and use the included scrunchies to secure it. Sure, it looks a bit goofy, but then I have bouncy curls when I take them out.
A sustainable beauty swap, these organic cotton and rubber hair ties work even better than the ones I've bought from the drugstore over the years. They're stretchy and sturdy, perfect for holding ponytails and more.
