Summer hair care

Is your hair dry and breaking this summer? Is there too much hair falling when you comb? Drying and thinning of hair is a common feature in summer and it is very important that the right methods are followed to protect it from the summer heat and the sun rays.

Hair fall in summer is also due to hormone acceleration as during the hot weather there is also hair growth. Experts say that there’s nothing to worry about as the hair fall ends in four to six weeks and is then back to normal.

Keep the scalp clean
Keeping the scalp moist is very important during summer. Hence oiling once or twice a week is sufficient. A little oil is considered enough during the season as there are enough sebaceous glands to produce sufficient oil to keep the scalp moist. Ensuring that the scalp is clean is another important aspect in summers. It is important to remove all the dirt due to exposure to sunlight and also pollution.

Dr Akansh Jain, dermatologist at Sunshine Hospitals, said, “Those who suffer from severe dandruff need to wash their scalp at least four to five times a week. For others, washing twice a week is sufficient. Keeping the scalp clean helps reduce hair fall, hence washing hair properly is very important.

Hair fall increases in summer
Summer heat causes excessive sweating and the dusty, dry atmosphere makes hair sticky and uncomfortable. Hair gets damaged because of exposure to sunlight, it’s outer layer is lost and one is more susceptible to split ends, frayed tips and dryness. Weathered hair loses moisture more rapidly than normal hair and hence looks dull and dry. People suffering from diseases like diabetes and thyroid complain of more hair fall during this season and thus need to take extra care.

Dr Anup Kumar Lahiry, consultant dermatologist at Apollo Hospitals, said, “During summer it is very important to use a mild shampoo to wash hair. Daily wash is recommended for those who commute long distances. A conditioner with less intensity is also recommended after shampooing. People with dry hair should not do intense conditioning during summer.”

Look for shampoos that have sun protective factors as it prevents UV hair damage.

Best ways to maintain hair in summer
Cover your hair with a hat or a scarf whenever you go out as the sun’s rays are very harsh.

Tying the hair too tightly leads to a lot of stress. Keeping it loose gives it enough air and also allows sweat to dry.

Use natural and organic products to maintain hair as it will ensure good health. Avoid excessive wetting, chemical treatment, hot combs, blow drying, rough combing and brushing.

Things to do
Warm oil massage three times a week helps as the roots of hair get stronger. It also helps increase blood circulation in the scalp.

Keep the scalp clean to reduce hair fall in summer.

A healthy diet of nuts like almonds and walnuts, and green leafy vegetables promotes thicker hair growth and prevents hair fall in summer

Drink sufficient water so that the hair too gets enough hydration