STRAND AND DELIVER
Shelley Pullar from Salon G presents the ultimate summer hair survival guide.
PHOTOS KATIE COX + SUPPLIED
Let’s be honest. Summer is glorious, but it’s also a minefield for our hair. Our locks can go from glossy to frizzy faster than you can say “beach day.” Here’s your ultimate guide to surviving the season, from a stylist who’s seen every strand scenario.
FRIZZ HAPPENS
Humidity is just moisture in the air, and your hair loves to interact with it. Because hair is hygroscopic, it absorbs and releases water depending on the environment. At around 40–60 percent humidity, your hair feels flexible and manageable. But once it hits 70 percent or more, expect frizz and shape loss. That’s when sealing in moisture is key. Think anti-humidity serums like Wella’s Ultimate Smooth Oil, which gives 96 hours of frizz control and UV protection, or Sebastian’s Taming Elixir with avocado oil for intense smoothness. Finish your style with Sebastian Reshaper for lasting hold that defies damp air.
Shelley Pullar
WHEN THE AIR GETS DRY
Low humidity (under 30 percent) is just as challenging. It zaps hydration, leaving hair static and brittle. Bring back the moisture with nourishing masks or oils, and look for humectants like aloe. Curly girls swear by Clever Curl Leave-In Cream paired with Dry Weather Gel to keep curls soft and defined. Salt, sun and style Heading beachside? Prep before you dip. Dampen your hair and add a leave-in conditioner or System Professional Helio Spray, a UV barrier that prevents dehydration and colour fade. After swimming, rinse with fresh water and follow up with a rich mask. Your future self (and your comb) will thank you.
STYLE SMART
Put down the blow-dryer and embrace the effortless vibe. Braids, buns and twists are your best friends. Try the overnight braid trick for beachy waves or “sock curls” for heatless bounce. For extra texture, mist with salt spray and shake out with your fingers. Scalp and colour care Don’t forget your scalp. Sunburns here in the Bay are no joke. Protect with SPF sprays or a hat, and soothe any burn with aloe gel. For blondes, protect tone and shine with System Professional Lux Blonde Biphase and a weekly purple shampoo to keep brassiness at bay.
So, whether you’re beach-bound or battling humidity, remember that summer hair is meant to move and breathe, just like you.
