Photography: Courtesy of Desiree Alyssa/@desireealyssahair & Matrix
Summer introduces unique challenges for curly and textured hair—humidity, sun exposure, chlorine, and saltwater can lead to dryness, frizz, and damage. As professionals, it's crucial to adjust techniques and product recommendations to address these seasonal concerns with best practices, in-salon treatments, and at-home routines to keep your clients’ curls hydrated and protected all summer long.
Understanding Summer Challenges
To properly care for curls and textured hair, it’s crucial to understand the most common hair struggles that can arise with warmer months. Sun and environmental factors dehydrate curls, leaving them dry and brittle so be sure to select products with hydrating ingredients.
It’s important to note that curly hair tends to expand and lose definition when exposed to moisture in the air resulting in unwanted frizz. Use anti-humidity products and minimize manipulation to keep curls defined in the summer. However, amika collective member Pekela Riley adds, “It’s important to set realistic expectations as a little frizz can add to the aesthetic of curls and coils.” An uptick in more lived-in looks the past few summers proves this, so be transparent with clients and get creative.
Pro Tip: “Applying products on damp hair locks in moisture before humidity sets in,” explains The Doux expert Matt Planer. “I always remind clients that once curls are set, leaving them untouched helps maintain definition.” Using anti-humidity stylers can help control frizz without stiffness.
Photography: Courtesy of Mizani and Redken
Treatments To Keep Curls Hydrated and Defined
An appointment for a summer curl refresh is the perfect opportunity to introduce clients to the latest treatments available in-salon, as well as ones they can continue at home. “Steam hydration treatments deeply replenish moisture, while bond repair treatments strengthen hair against sun and pool damage,” says Planer. Must-have products for summer curly hair care that salon owners should have stocked in the backbar should also include hydrating leave-ins, oils, and styling creams.
Pro Tip: Mizani artist and Redken colorist Jamal Edmonds shares his ride-or-die treatments for both salon and at-home care: “Redken Acidic Bonding Curl collection for moisture and protein balance, Mizani 25 Miracle Milk for UV and heat protection, and Mizani 25 Miracle Nourishing Oil for locking in hydration after styling.”
Low-Maintenance Color Techniques
Balayage, Pintura highlights, lowlights, and glosses are ideal for curly hair as they provide dimension without frequent touch-ups. These techniques allow for a more seamless grow-out, perfect for clients who want less maintenance over the summer. For highlights, Riley and Edmonds are both big fans of curlyage (also known as coilyage). “It’s a textured spin on balayage, designed to enhance natural curls with a seamless, graceful grow-out,” Edmonds explains.
Pro Tip: To maintain vibrancy and hydration, Edmonds recommends a Redken Shades EQ Gloss and hydration treatment every three weeks.
Crafting A Curl Regimen for Clients
Start with a solid wash routine to help clients maintain healthy, defined curls all summer. In this case, that means pick a cleanser and conditioner combo that hydrates and protects strands. Then, choose stylers that follow suit. Riley says, “The biggest challenges for curly and textured hair is moisture balance, and finding the right regimen for curl definition,” highlighting amika Curl Corps Enhancing Gel and The Wizard Detangling Primer as top choices.
Pro Tip: A personalized approach is essential, as Riley advises, “Stylists must first learn all the things about all texture types and focus on individualized consultations.”
Protective Summer Hairstyles to Recommend
Protective styles, ideal for low-maintenance routines, are especially popular in the summer. Box braids, twists, and braided baldies are great options for clients to protect their curls from sun and chlorine damage. Don’t forget to educate clients on the importance of keeping their scalp moisturized and edges tame since those areas are more exposed when wearing these looks.
Pro Tip: “To maintain these styles, The Doux Push It! Braid & Edge Gel keeps edges sleek while The Doux Get Honey Hair & Scalp Serum prevents dryness and buildup,” says Planer.
Cutting and Shaping Curly/Textured Hair for the Summer
Proper shaping of curly hair ensures a great look as it grows out during the humid summer months. More textured hair often requires adjustments for shrinkage and bulk management. “I always cut dry to shape curls naturally,” says Planer. “A style that looks great wet can shrink several inches when dry.”
Edmonds swears by the Mizani Aircut for its precise shape and longevity. “It’s a solution-based cutting system for curls, coils, and waves that allows guests to wear their hair both curly and straight,” he says. “To maintain your shape, touch-ups every six to eight weeks are ideal—this will keep your cut fresh all summer long.” And yes, it’s done dry.
Pro Tip: “Regular trims prevent breakage and keep curls fresh,” says Planer. Ask clients if they’d like to schedule their next trim, so they already have an appointment on the books.
To learn more, check out the latest SalonCentric classes and certifications on curly and textured haircare and styling, like the Mizani Aircut Certification.
