The products you need for perfect summer holiday hair

The intention is always there, but nailing perfect holiday beach hair doesn’t just happen after a quick dip in the ocean before dinner. It can be even harder to master holiday beauty looks if you’re somewhere with an unpredictable climate (and your baggage allowance to cope with said climate is limited).

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Packing hair products for summer weather calls for diligence and forward thinking. Get the basics right, and you’ll be well on your way to beach-babe status in no time.

Consider your colour

Going somewhere tropical this season? Tone down your colour before hopping on that plane. Once you touch down in paradise, your hair will inevitably start lightening in the sun. A wide brimmed hat is a non-negotiable seaside companion – not only will it protect your face, but also your hair from UVA and UVB rays that damage your strands and their colour. Plus, they make for one seriously fabulous summer accessory.

image credit: @dominiquelissa

Upgrade your essentials

Since your hair is about to cop some major heat, up the ante in the shower with an extra nourishing or frizz-fighting shampoo and conditioner combo. This will help cleanse your scalp free of sand and salt water, while the richness of the conditioner will limit the frizz caused by humidity.

bh loves: Kérastase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste and Cleansing Conditioner, PPS Silk Hair Hydrant Shampoo and Conditioner, L'Oréal Professionnel Série Expert Absolut Repair Lipidium Shampoo and Conditioner, Pantene Pro-V Colour Protection Shampoo and 3 Minute Miracle Conditioner

image credit: @hanaleireponty

Supercharge your hydration

Forgo conditioner for a hydrating treatment mask that will undo the day’s damage, or better yet – leave it in all day for 24/7 protection. If a day in the sun is today’s itinerary, coat your hair from the mid-lengths down in a treatment and then throw your hair up into a pony or bun. Doing so will keep it hydrated and protect it from the dehydrating salt water and sun. If an all-dayer isn’t your cuppa, slather your strands in a treatment-soaked clipped top knot over breakfast instead.

bh loves: Oribe Gold Lust Transformative Masque, Ouai Treatment Masque, Redken Extreme Strength Builder Plus, Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, Pureology Precious Oil Softening Masque, Gliders Large Butterfly Clip

image credit: @tashoakley

Expand your styling portfolio

Fact: That hotel dryer will never fulfill your dream of Victoria’s Secret waves, so spend less time near the outlet (it’s too hot to be heat styling, anyway!) and more time with your heat-friendly styling products. If you’re lacking in texture, try the half bun a la Margot Robbie, and scrunch some texture spray through the bottom section. Just remember that hydration should be your main focus, along with keeping your hair free from damage (snag-free elastics are a holiday essential). Loading your locks with serum and then styling into a braid or slicked pony will help you look ‘put together’, while keeping your hair nice and hydrated.

bh loves: Shu Uemura Art of Hair Essence Absolue, TONI&GUY Hair Care Casual Rough Texturiser, Fudge Urban Sea Salt, KEVIN.MURPHY DOO.OVER, ELEVEN Australia I Want Body Volume Spray

What product must-haves and styling tips do you have for mastering holiday hair?