Summer Haircare That Actually Works
- Katie Burns
- Jul 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 8

Prep BEFORE You Swim
You wouldn’t jump into a pool without sunscreen, right? (Right?!)
Well, taking a minute to prep your hair goes a long way.
Wet your hair with filtered tap water before getting into chlorine or saltwater— this helps prevent it from absorbing the harsher stuff!
Bonus Points: After wetting your hair (but before diving in), apply a light conditioner, hair oil, or leave-in. Think of it like an extra barrier between your strands and the harsh stuff.
Client Fav:
Aqua Guard - Protects hair from chlorine and saltwater damage.
Clarify…But Don’t Go Overboard
If you’re in and out of the water all summer— use a gentle clarifying or detox shampoo once a week or every 3rd wash (less if you’re scalp is naturally a bit dry).
Pro tip: Clarifying days are perfect to finish off with a deep conditioning treatment!
What I recommend:
Malibu C Swimmers Wellness - helps nourish, strengthen, and protect while helping prevent mineral damage and discoloration
Olaplex No.4C - removes damaging, hair-dulling impurities without stripping or drying
Olaplex No.8 - strengthens & replenishes dehydrated hair while reducing breakage
Protect From the Sun
The sun really does bleach out hair color— especially the kind we spend time and $$$ perfecting in the salon! It can start to feel like straw by the end of summer if it gets too much exposure.
Solutions:
Wear a hat (you’ll look fabulous darling)
Use a UV protectant- especially if your hair is color treated.
Try these:
Wide Brim Straw Panama Hat - tightly woven to block more rays
Sun Bum Leave In Conditioner - this spray provides protection from damaging UV rays
Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil - maintains the health and appearance of hair by protecting against damage from UV exposure
Give Your Scalp a Little Love
Sweat, buildup, sunscreen, and dry shampoo can turn your scalp into a clogged mess. Gently exfoliate 1-2 times a month and massage your scalp to enhance circulation.
My go to’s:
Scalp Massage Brush - helps to exfoliate and remove dirt, oil, and buildup from your scalp
Nutrafol Exfoliating Scalp Mask - Clinically tested to visibly improve dryness and remove dirt and product build-up for a healthy scalp.
Keep It Simple
You don't need a new product for every single situation. Build a seasonal routine that works for your actual life.
TLDR: Summer Hair Care
Pre-swim (lake, pool, hot tub…) wet your hair + add a leave in
Clarify every 3rd wash (general summertime rule of thumb for my swimmers)
Protect your hair like you protect your skin
Exfoliate your scalp (gently and approx every 3rd wash…don’t go wild)
Embrace the seasonal routine shift!
Want to see everything in one spot?
Shop my summer faves – tools + products I trust
Book a consult or haircut – we’ll build your routine together!
If this resonated, send it to a friend!
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