Stop humidity from ruining your hair

• Use moisturising products to prevent hair from absorbing humidity
• Avoid hot water and towel friction to keep the hair cuticle smooth
• Use silk pillowcases and humidity-resistant styles to maintain hair

Nothing disrupts a good hair day faster than a forecast full of rain and humidity. That dampness in the air can turn smooth styles into a frizzy mess. But you don't have to surrender your hair to the weather. It starts with a few simple habits.

Start With The Right Foundation

The battle against frizz begins in the shower. When your hair is dry or damaged, it's more porous, meaning it will absorb moisture from the air, causing the hair cuticle to swell and create frizz. To counteract this, focus on hydration. Use moisturising shampoos and conditioners that help lock in moisture. Ingredients like keratin, shea butter, argan oil, and coconut oil are excellent for nourishing the hair and smoothing the cuticle. Hydrated hair is less likely to seek moisture from the humid air, giving you a head start on a smooth finish.

Rethink Your Washing Routine

How you wash your hair matters just as much as what you use. Avoid washing with very hot water, which can strip your hair of its natural oils and open up the cuticle, making it more susceptible to frizz. Instead, opt for lukewarm water. A final rinse with cool water at the end of your shower can make a significant difference. This helps to seal the hair cuticle, locking in the conditioner's moisture and creating a smoother surface that's better protected against humidity.

Dry Your Hair Gently

Aggressively rubbing your hair with a standard cotton towel is one of the biggest culprits of frizz. The friction roughs up the hair cuticle, leading to frizz and potential breakage, especially since hair is most fragile when wet. Switch to a microfibre towel or even a soft cotton t-shirt to gently squeeze and blot the excess water from your hair. This simple change reduces friction and helps keep the cuticle smooth. If you use a hairdryer, apply a heat protectant first and use the lowest effective temperature setting to minimise damage.

Seal the Deal with Products

The right styling products create a barrier between your hair and the humidity. Anti-frizz serums and leave-in conditioners are essential tools. Look for products containing ingredients like lightweight silicones or natural oils such as argan or jojoba oil, which help to seal the hair cuticle and block out excess moisture. Apply a small amount to damp hair before styling. A lightweight, humidity-resistant hairspray can also be used as a final step to lock in your style and provide an extra layer of protection.

Choose a Humidity-Resistant Style

On days with especially high humidity, forcing your hair into a style that fights its natural texture can be a losing battle. Instead, work with your hair. If you have curls, embrace them with products that enhance definition. On other days, humidity-friendly hairstyles are your best friend. Chic options like braids, top knots, ponytails, or buns not only look stylish but also protect the bulk of your hair from the damp air, minimising the surface area exposed to humidity.

Protect Your Hair While You Sleep

Your overnight routine can set you up for success the next day. Cotton pillowcases can create friction as you toss and turn, roughing up the hair cuticle and causing frizz and tangles. Switching to a silk or satin pillowcase can make a noticeable difference. The smooth surface allows your hair to glide across it with minimal friction, helping to preserve your style and keep your hair smooth. This small habit protects your hair from unnecessary damage and helps you wake up with more manageable locks.