High temperatures and summertime fun can be hard on Black hair.
“Our textured hair often faces dryness and moisture loss during the summer due to sun exposure, chlorine, and saltwater. The hair can be more brittle, dull, and prone to breakage,” said Alisha LaVon.
The owner of LVX Hair Salon located in Glen Burnie, Maryland is a licensed cosmetologist who provided summer haircare tips.
Haircare for Swimmers
Before heading to the pool, LaVon recommends thoroughly wetting the hair, as it acts like a sponge.
“If it’s already full of clean water, it absorbs less chlorine or saltwater. You can do this in the shower or with a spray bottle. I always tell my clients to put their hair in a few braids, twists, or a bun to reduce tangling and matting,” she added.
Although a tight-fitting silicone cap helps to keep water out and keep braids or protective styles dry, LaVon stated that you should still shampoo your hair after taking a swim.
“Even with a swim cap, water can get in and chlorine and saltwater can dry out the hair and scalp. It’s important to rinse immediately and shampoo regularly—even with light shampoo or co-wash if you swim often,” she added. “Rinse with fresh water right after swimming to remove most of the chlorine or salt before it dries on your hair. Next, you’ll need to cleanse/shampoo.”
LaVon advises swimmers with natural hair that is curly, coily or kinky choose a sulfate-free, clarifying shampoo to gently remove buildup without stripping the hair’s natural oils. Second, she recommends using an apple cider vinegar rinse to help restore pH and remove chlorine residue. LaVon advised that people who have chemically processed hair that is relaxed or color-treated should use a gentle sulfate-free shampoo to avoid stripping color.
“After cleansing, you’ll want to follow with a protein-moisture balanced deep conditioner to restore softness and strength. Lastly, apply a leave-in conditioner and seal with light oil or butter (for example, jojoba, avocado oil). This helps lock in moisture and reinforce the cuticle,” LaVon explained.
Courtesy photo
Popular Protective Styles
“Boho Knotless Braids are my most popular summer style this year,” said LaVon.
The cosmetologist explained that they are lightweight, natural-looking, and cause less tension on the scalp and can last four to eight weeks. She cautioned that the loose hair tangles easily if it is synthetic, and the curls can dry out fast if they are not maintained.
Quick weave styles are affordable and fast to install. LaVon cautioned that this style can cause damage if too much glue touches natural hair, or if it is worn too long without proper removal.
“A lot of my clients are really loving crochet braids this year. They come in so many different styles such as faux locs; passion twists; boho braids; and loose curls. These styles are low maintenance, budget-friendly, and super quick to install,” LaVon also stated.
“A curly half wig is another great heat-free style,” she added.
Maintenance and installation of popular styles are key.
Styles that are too tight, or styles that create too much tension, can cause traction alopecia, especially around edges.
“This can happen with tight braids, heavy styles, or improperly installed weaves,” said LaVon.
The experienced hair professional warned that leaving protective styles installed too long can cause hair damage that the wearer does not see until it is removed. Although the style may look fine on the outside, underneath, hair could be breaking at the roots, losing moisture, have clogged follicles, and weakened hair strands.
People who choose to wear their hair in certain styles can use LaVon’s recommendations that the maximum time for noted styles with proper care are as follows:
Knotless/Box Braids: six to eight weeks
Sew-Ins, Stitch Braids, Crochet Braids: four to six weeks
Quick Weaves: one to three weeks
Healthy Hair
Remember to use moisture-rich formulas this time of the year.
“Look for humectants like glycerin, aloe vera, or honey,” said LaVon.
Be careful of using heat from flat irons or blow dryers more than once or twice a week. Do not skip using heat protectant.
Visit www.lvxhairsalon.as.me and @lvxhairsalon LVX Hair Salon on social media platforms to learn more about LaVon’s business.
