When it comes to afro or curly hair, humidity is one of those things we can either love or loathe. On one hand, it can enhance the natural curl pattern and add volume but on the flip side it can also lead to frizz, shrinkage, and dryness if not kept in check. That said, there are ways to make humidity work for your hair so read on.
Hydration is Key
Afro and curly hair types are naturally more prone to dryness because the curl pattern makes it harder for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft. In humid conditions, hair can become dehydrated as it absorbs moisture from the air, causing frizz. A way to address this is by ensuring your hair is well-hydrated from the start. Use a leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture. Look for products with ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, and aloe vera, which attract and retain moisture.
Seal in Moisture with Oils
After applying your leave-in conditioner, it's essential to seal in that moisture to prevent frizz. Oils like coconut, argan, or jojoba are excellent choices. They create a barrier on the hair shaft, preventing the external humidity from disrupting your hair's moisture balance. Lightly apply your preferred oil, focusing on the ends and the areas prone to frizz. Avoid applying these oils to your scalp as they can disrupt your scalps natural microbiome. Instead opt for a light amount of our Scalp Serum which has been specifically formulated to hydrate the scalp without causing disruption to it’s natural functions.
Protective Styles
When the humidity is high, correctly installed protective styles like braids, twists, or buns can help manage your curls as they lessen your hair being exposed to humidity, thus eliminating frizz.
Invest in Anti-Humidity Products
Anti-humidity products are designed to create a protective shield around your hair, preventing it from absorbing too much moisture from the air. Look for anti-humidity sprays or creams that are specifically formulated for curly and Afro hair as these products often contain silicone or other ingredients that coat the hair, helping to maintain your style even in the most humid conditions.
Refresh Your Curls with a Humidity-Friendly Mist
Throughout the day, your curls might start to lose their shape or definition due to the humidity. A hydrating curl mist is a great way to refresh your hair so keep one close by. Choose one that is water based and is infused with ingredients such as glycerin or honey to attract moisture without weighing your hair down.
Sleep with a Satin or Silk Scarf
Humidity doesn’t just affect your hair during the day; it can also cause frizz overnight. To protect your curls while you sleep, protect your hair with a satin of silk bonnet as it can help reduce friction, which can lead to frizz and breakage.
Consider the Climate When Choosing Your Products
Not all curly hair products work well in humid conditions. Gels, for example, can sometimes cause flaking or stickiness when exposed to high humidity. Instead, opt for creams or light hold stylers that offer flexibility and movement while still controlling frizz. Experiment with different products to find the ones that work best for your hair in various weather conditions.
Take a Steam
Steaming treatments are a must, especially during humid seasons as they help restore moisture, elasticity, and strength to your curls, making them more resilient to environmental changes. Aim to steam your hair at least once a week with a product rich in proteins and hydrating agents. We of course reckon our hair mask and steaming cap should be your go-tos.
Trim Your Ends Regularly
Split ends can lead to frizz and make your hair look less polished in humid conditions. Regular trims keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft. Healthy ends are less likely to frizz and will help your hair maintain its shape and curl pattern, even when the humidity is high.
Stay Cool and Avoid Excess Heat
Using heat styling tools like flat irons or blow dryers can further dry out your hair and make it more susceptible to humidity-induced frizz. During humid months, try to limit your use of heat styling tools and embrace your natural curl pattern instead. If you do need to use heat, always apply a heat protectant and use the lowest temperature setting possible.