Rainy season is upon us and although bad hair days do happen, they don’t have to happen more frequently just because the weather is way wetter than usual. But rain = humidity = frizz so what can we do in those moments where hiding out indoors just isn’t an option? Aside from always bringing an umbrella if there’s even the slightest chance of precipitation, here are some steps you should take for rain-resistant, frizz-free hair. An important tip: Be careful not to overdo it with anti-frizz products — choose depending on your hair type and method of styling, and use sparingly.
Start in the shower
Your first line of defense starts in the shower. You’ll want to use a shampoo and conditioner combo that hydrates and repairs your hair while protecting it from further breakage — it’s those damaged broken strands that end up frizzing up something fierce when it’s wet outside. Try one of nine collections from the Herbal Essences’ new bio:renew line of products featuring bio-lipid technology that works from the inside out to trap, neutralize, and remove free radical buildup in your hair. We recommend the Coconut Milk Shampoo and Conditioner ($8 each, available at drugstores) because all the proteins, fatty acids, and iron in coconut milk will really restore and strengthen your strands with deep hydration — the perfect formula against frizzies.
Skip the heat styling
Once you’re cleaned and conditioned, detangle with a wide-toothed comb or Tangle Teezer ($15) to avoid breakage. Do not brush your hair. If it’s one of those lazy rainy days that isn’t exactly motivating you to spend too much time on your tresses, opt for an easy ballerina bun, top knot, cute braids or whatever you like that will keep your hair relatively contained. A lazy loose style looks effortlessly sexy no matter what your hair type and can even be done while your hair is still wet.
Add some texture
It’s important to embrace your hair’s natural texture on days where the weather will always win. Another option for if you don’t want to dry your hair is to spritz it with some sea salt spray for those coveted fresh-off-the-beach waves. You know your hair is just gonna curl up like crazy so at least take control with a matte texturizing spray. If your hair has a natural wave to it, your curls will be more defined and less frizzy. If your hair is on the straighter side, you’ll add more lift and life to the inevitable humidity-induced wave in your hair. The Sea Spray Hair Mist (14.95) from LUSH is our favourite.
Dry your hair thoroughly
If time and effort are on your side and you actually want to blowdry your hair before heading out, make sure it’s completely dry before setting out into the rain. Humidity will intensify the tiniest amount of dampness into a frizzy mess so make sure you dry your hair entirely and allow it to cool for a few minutes to seal the cuticle. Don’t forget to apply a hair lotion before drying to protect from heat damage and shape your style. L’incroyable Blowdry ($41) from Kérastase contains polymers that provide flexible hold with a promised 96 hours of humidity protection.
Lock it all in
Finally, humidity-resistant hairspray is all you need to help tame any of those pesky flyaways that might pop up. Be sure to apply with a very light hand and you will have just the right amount to shield you from the elements. Whether you still have flyaways after you’ve finished blowdrying or you simply need to smooth out your second-day ‘do, a little bit of hairspray goes a long way for versatile rainy day defense of both curly and straight hair types. Joico makes an exceptionally lightweight finishing spray called Humidity Blocker ($20) that locks in your look with a frizz-free finish.
*This article originally appeared on our sister site, BeautyDesk.com.
