Sun, swimming, chlorine, salt water — these are just a few of the things that make summer our favorite season. Hair shedding, burned scalps, dry strands — and these are a few reasons why summer comes with its own special haircare requirements. If you notice more hair shedding on your brush the higher the temps climb, it may not be your imagination. Some summer-specific circumstances could be affecting your hair in a negative way — and the products that you’re using could be contributing to this dilemma. Caleb Backe, a hair expert at Maple Holistics, has simple solutions to help keep your hair healthy this summer. These are the two products you should stop using this summer because they can cause hair thinning.
Why Can Hair Shed More During Summer?
Hair shedding can occur any time of the year. It can be the result of aging, hormonal changes, medicines that you are taking, or deficiencies in your diet. But it can also be aggravated by products that you are using in your hair. And your summer lifestyle could be kicking up problems, as well.
“Several factors contribute to this phenomenon,” Backe says. “Firstly, higher temperatures and increased exposure to UV radiation can lead to scalp dryness and damage, weakening the hair follicles. Additionally, the combination of heat and humidity can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to more hair entering the shedding phase.”
Moreover, during summer, we tend to engage in outdoor activities, which exposes our hair to environmental elements like chlorine in swimming pools, saltwater, and increased sun exposure, all of which can cause hair stress and damage, Backe notes. “It is essential to protect and care for your hair during this season by using UV-protective products, keeping the scalp hydrated, and minimizing heat styling to reduce hair shedding,” Backe says. “Remember to maintain a healthy diet, as proper nutrition supports hair health and growth. If you have concerns about excessive hair shedding, it is advisable to consult a professional hair specialist for a personalized evaluation and guidance.”
With all of this in mind, avoiding two specific products is important to keep hair thinning and shedding at bay.
Avoid Shampoos With Sulfates
It’s so important to avoid sulfate-containing shampoos year-round, Backe says, as they tend to strip the hair of its natural oils, resulting in dryness, frizz, and potential damage.
“Opting for sulfate-free shampoos is a gentler alternative for both the hair and scalp,” Backe says. “Secondly, it is best to limit the use of heat styling tools with high heat settings, as excessive heat can lead to dryness, breakage, and split ends.
Applying a heat protectant spray and utilizing lower heat settings whenever possible is recommended.”
Avoid Products That Contain High Amounts of Alcohol
Additionally, hair products with high alcohol content, such as certain hairsprays, gels, and styling products, can cause dryness and breakage. “Opting for alcohol-free alternatives or products with lower alcohol content can help prevent excessive dryness,” Backe says. “Harsh chemical treatments like relaxers, perms, and excessive hair coloring can also damage the hair if not approached with care or performed too frequently.”
Consulting a professional stylist and ensuring proper hair care before and after such treatments is vital for minimizing damage and preserving healthy hair, he adds.
Finally, Backe stresses that it is crucial to exercise caution with cheap or counterfeit hair products, as they may contain harmful ingredients or lack quality control. “Choosing reputable brands and purchasing products from trusted sources ensures the safety and effectiveness of the hair products used,” Backe says. “By avoiding these products and making informed choices, individuals can maintain the health and beauty of their hair.”
