Summer’s here, and with it comes sunshine, sweat, saltwater and the urge to let your curls, coils and kinks out to play. But if you’ve got textured hair, you already know that summer is not going to go easy on your locks. Between heat, humidity and UV rays, this season can be tough on your hair.
So how do you keep your hair healthy, hydrated and beautiful all summer long?
We asked Kameese Davis, CEO and Founder of Nylah’s Naturals, to walk us through her summer tips. As the mind behind a Black-owned, science-backed brand rooted in real-life experience, Kameese knows exactly what textured hair needs when the temps rise. This guide covers it all: styles that protect as well as shine, and products that support your scalp and strands through the heat of the season.
Why Summer Can Be So Rough on Textured Hair
If your hair leans curly, coily or kinky, it’s naturally more prone to dryness, and summer has a way of making that worse. Think harsh sun, dry air, sweat, chlorine and saltwater. Add all that up, and it’s no surprise if your hair ends up frizzy, brittle or breaking.
That’s why your summer routine calls for a bit more care and preparation. Protective styles, regular hydration, and gentle handling all matter, but so does planning ahead. Taking time now to think about your routine can help your hair stay strong and beautiful through the hottest months.
Protective Styles That Work Hard (and Look Gorgeous)
When it comes to summer styling, protective looks are your best friend as well as a form of self-expression.
“Summer is the perfect time for those of us with textured hair to embrace our creativity – it’s truly the season of protective styling,” says Davis. “Braids are always a go-to option. They’re low maintenance, protective and incredibly versatile, which is exactly what we need in warmer months.”
Kameese recommends Fulani braids, goddess braids, and boho-inspired looks, versatile, low-maintenance styles that support hair health while giving you room to express your uniqueness.
“These styles not only shield the hair from sun exposure and breakage but also give you freedom to enjoy the season without constant upkeep,” Davis adds.
Don’t Forget About Your Scalp
Here’s the thing most people don’t realize: You really can’t just set it and forget it. A protective style only works if your scalp is healthy underneath.
“Protective styles are only truly protective when paired with good scalp and moisture care,” Davis says. “One of the biggest mistakes people make is neglecting their scalp just because the hair is tucked away.”
Your scalp still needs love, and lightweight, breathable products are essential. Davis swears by Nylah’s Flourish Intelligent Hair Growth Serum.
“It’s perfect for soothing the scalp, encouraging growth, and won’t clog pores or cause disruption during hot, sweaty days,” she says.
Made with scalp-loving ingredients like aloe vera, horsetail extract, pea protein, and bergamot to soothe, hydrate, and support healthy growth. Apply with a nozzle or dropper to the parts and any dry or irritated areas, especially when protective styles are in place.
Make Moisture a Daily Practice (Not a One-Time Thing)
Hydration isn’t one-and-done. Summer heat, sun and sweat can strip moisture quickly, so it’s important to stay consistent.
“Moisture retention is also key, especially under the summer sun where hair is prone to dryness,” says Davis. “Our Maximum Moisture Hair Mist is brilliant for topping up hydration without causing buildup – just mist it on the roots and braids as needed.”
This is your midday pick-me-up in a bottle. Keep it in your bag, in your car, or by the door, and mist as often as needed, especially after swimming or spending long periods outside.
Wearing your hair out in twist-outs, wash-and-gos, or puffs? A good leave-in is your foundation. For lasting hydration in summer, Davis recommends Nylah’s Moisture Retention Leave-In Cream, a lightweight formula that helps keep curls soft, defined and nourished throughout the day.
“It’s lightweight but highly effective for locking in moisture and preventing dryness,” she says.
And if your curls need a little extra sealing, a few drops of Nylah’s Super Seed Oil can help. It’s full of nourishing omegas and essential fatty acids, but no silicones, so you get the gloss without the buildup.
“It helps reduce frizz and adds a smooth, sun-ready shine without feeling heavy,” Davis adds.
A Simple Summer Hair Routine That Works
Not sure how to pull it all together? Try this simple summer routine:
1. Keep It Clean and Gentle
Reach for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to clear away sweat, product buildup and daily grime. Focus on thoroughly cleansing your scalp, then rinse.
2. Deep Condition and Detangle
Apply a nourishing conditioner and take your time detangling with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Pop on a shower cap and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to help lock in moisture.
3. Layer in Leave-In and Style It Up
Work a lightweight leave-in cream, like Nylah’s Moisture Retention Leave-In, through damp hair. From there, twist, puff or prep for protective styles.
4. Refresh with a Daily Mist
Each morning or before stepping outside, mist your hair with a hydrating spray to maintain softness and flexibility. It’s especially helpful after time in the sun.
5. Lock It In with Oil
Use a few drops of lightweight oil as needed to seal in moisture, focusing on your ends or areas that tend to dry out quickly.
6. Care for Your Scalp, Too
A few times a week, apply a nourishing serum directly to your scalp. Concentrate on areas that feel tight, dry, or where your style is parted.
What Not to Do
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to slip into habits that do more harm than good. Here’s what Davis says to watch out for:
- Don’t skip wash day. Your scalp still needs cleansing, even in braids or twists, especially in the heat.
- Don’t layer on heavy butters or oils. They can trap heat and sweat, leading to buildup and irritation. Stick with lightweight formulas.
- Don’t ditch your satin or silk. Your bonnet or pillowcase is still essential, even when it’s hot out. It helps reduce friction and hold onto moisture overnight.
- Don’t dry in direct sun. Letting your hair air dry is great, but sitting in harsh sun while it’s wet can damage proteins. Try drying in the shade or indoors instead.
Caring for textured hair in the summer doesn’t have to be complicated, but you should have a plan. As Kameese reminds us, summer is a time to feel free with your hair, not frustrated. With the right products, a good routine and a focus on moisture and scalp health, your textured hair will thrive through heat, humidity and everything in between.
