Dealing with curly hair in wet weather can be challenging, but with the proper techniques and products, you can make your curly hair look great. Moisture often leads to frizzy hair and hard-to-manage curls. Still, with some expert advice and styling tips, you can keep your hair moisture-proof and confidently wear natural curls.
First, it’s crucial to understand how humidity affects curly hair. Too much moisture in the air can cause your hair to absorb the excess moisture, resulting in swelling, frizz, and undefined curls. By using the right products and techniques, you can maintain the moisture balance in your hair, which is crucial for well-defined, frizzy curls.
Here are some proven strategies and tips to help you keep your curly hair looking its best, even in humid conditions. By incorporating these methods into your hair care routine, you can confidently embrace your natural curls no matter the weather.
How does humidity affect curly hair
Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air. When the environment is humid, our hair tends to absorb moisture from the air, which causes hair to swell and frizz.
In summer, the dew point is high, meaning the air can hold more water than at any other time. That’s why humidity is a problem in the summer, and hair will struggle.
When the humidity in the air increases, the moisture interacts with the hair’s natural texture. This moisture causes the proteins in the hair to form more hydrogen bonds, which changes the shape of the hair. As a result, your curly hair may become more frizzy or frizzy in humid environments.
In humid weather, water molecules in the air can penetrate your hair shaft and upset the proteins’ balance. This damage weakens the hair structure, causing it to break and split more easily. This moisture can also affect your hair’s natural texture, making it harder to manage.
Moisture-proof curls
Many styling products and techniques can help your curls resist moisture.
Reducing moisturizer
During humid months, moisturizers like glycerin may increase frizziness because they draw moisture from the air onto your hair. To prevent frizz, limit your use of products with moisturizing ingredients or switch to products with low-moisture ingredients.
There are two types of wetting agents: regular and film-forming. Film-forming moisturizers form a flexible barrier over the hair and are much safer in humid environments.
Common wetting agents include:
- glycerin
- Sodium PCA
- Honey
- Sodium lactate
Use light moisture
Because there’s a lot of moisture in the air, your hair doesn’t need that much, but you do need some. Even without moisturizers, hair absorbs moisture from the surrounding air. In environments with high humidity and dew points, it’s easy to over-moisturize your hair.
You can skip the wash-in or use less and see what happens. It works for me.
Use styling products
Complex styling glue can help your curls hold their shape and block moisture absorption from the air. Remember to be light, especially if your hair is fine or thin.
