7 Ways To Smooth Your Hair This Summer

Now that summer weather is basically upon us, some beauty-related cares like cracked skin have either lessened in degree or even temporarily left us. However, some other beauty woes have been revived. A major one that comes with the warmer months is frizzy hair and fly-aways. What with chlorinated pools and constantly rocking an up-do to beat the heat, the summertime can see a lot of breakage. And breakage is a major player in frizz and fly-aways. Of course there are ways to stave off damage by not heat-styling and washing your hair with cold water to help seal the cuticle, but sometimes that's just not enough. Especially when humidity is also involved.

Now I can't pretend that I have super-curly hair that poofs up at the first sign of moisture for solidarity's sake, but my hair is definitely not immune to the effects of a rainy afternoon. I also have my very own Alfalfa-style malady with a particular section of baby hairs at my hairline. It's not cute. But I digress. If you just can't shake those fly-aways and frizzy bits, here are a few adjustments you can make and tricks you can use to help keep your hair in place. And yes, they're all more comfortable than a cold shower.

1. Use The Right Shampoo & Conditioner

Redken Frizz Dismiss Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner Set, $63, Amazon

Frizz and fly-aways happen because hair is dry or damaged. To deter this, start by making sure your washing and conditioning regimen is formulated to your hair type. If you have naturally dry hair, look for a moisturizing formula. If you have damaged hair, look for a repairing and strengthening formula. Also make sure, no matter your hair type, to make use of a deep conditioner or hair mask at least once a week to really help lock in moisture. And when in doubt, go for a system specifically targeted towards frizzy hair. This pair from Redken features a Humidity-Resist Complex which helps protect from humidity while also keeping hair moisturized and under control.

2. Use Proper Drying Techniques

Tresemme Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray, $7, Amazon

Because hair is especially fragile when wet, there are many ways to damage it when drying (which can lead to more fly-aways). If you prefer to towel dry, make sure to squeeze your strands instead of rubbing them. The friction from rubbing wet hair can easily cause breakage. If your hair is particularly fragile, opt for an old T-shirt instead of a towel. If you blow-dry your hair, always use a heat protectant first to cut back on the damage a dryer can cause. (Also make sure to use a heat protectant any time you heat-style your hair too.) This one from Tresemme locks in moisture and leaves hair shiny.

3. Comb, Don't Brush

Fromm Diane Ionic Anti-Static 6" Volume Detangler Comb, $3, ulta.com

Brushing hair, especially when wet, can lead to breakage and therefore, more frizz and fly-aways. Instead, opt for a wide-tooth comb, or just use your fingers (this is especially effective if you have super curly strands)! Always try to wait until hair is dry or mostly dry before combing, and use a detangling spray if you're prone to knots. If you do prefer a comb to your fingers, try one that will work double-duty for you like this one from Fromm that helps reduce static electricity (another cause of fly-aways).

4. Incorporate Targeted Stylers and Treatments

Drybar 100 Proof Treatment Oil, $36, Check It Out

If a targeted shampoo and conditioner system is not enough, add a treatment or styling product to the mix. There are plenty of creams, oils, and leave-in conditioners on the market to help tame fly-aways. Just make sure to choose the best type for your hair. If you have fine hair, you'll want to use lightweight products like dry oils or dual-phase treatments. If you have coarser hair, you might want to choose a regular oil or cream. And regardless of your hair type, make sure not to overdo it, as too much product can weigh down hair and cause it to look greasy. This particular oil from Drybar adds shine while sealing ends to help eliminate fly-aways.

5. Smooth It Down With Hairspray

L'Oreal Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold All Day Volume Hairspray, $14, Amazon

If little frizzies or baby hairs are still giving you a problem, add a little hairspray. Don't spray directly onto your hair, but instead spray a little on a toothbrush or a tissue and gently brush or wipe the hairspray onto fly-aways. This cult-favorite hairspray provides extra-strong hold to keep frizz at bay all day long.

6. In A Pinch, Use Hand Cream

L'Occitane Hand Cream, $12, Amazon

If you carry a hand cream in your purse, this can be used to tame fly-aways in a pinch. Don't apply it directly to your hair, though. Instead, apply it to your hands as you normally would. Then, before it has completely absorbed, lightly run your hands over any frizzy areas to give them a shot of moisture and to smooth them down.

7. Or A Dryer Sheet

Snuggle Dryer Sheets, $7, Amazon

Just as dryer sheets can be run over dresses and skirts to reduce static cling, they can also be run over hair to reduce fly-aways caused by static. Plus, they'll make your hair smell nice and fresh.

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