Hair Care In The Rains - by Editor

Manage hair easily and keep it looking great even when it rains!

The rains bring respite from the heat of the summer but can leave you frustrated when your hair refuses to behave and stay in style. However, by following a few simple tips, you can manage to keep your hair problems to a minimum and look good.

Do not wash your hair too often

There is nothing better than a nice bath when you just get in from the pouring rain. However, washing your hair too often, say every day, can exaggerate the problems you already face. Washing your hair two or three times a week will keep your hair clean and looking good. At the same time, it prevents excessive drying of hair and keeps frizziness to a minimum. Also, do not forget to condition your hair after every wash; you could use a leave-in conditioner to make dry hair more manageable.

Protect from moisture

Excessive moisture is the biggest culprit during this season. It affects your hair even if you remain indoors, especially on days when the humidity is high. Depending on your hair type, it may leave your hair frizzy or flat. Hair that is fine, wavy, or curly usually tends to absorb the moisture in the air. This makes fine or thin hair fall flat, but people with wavy or curly hair end up with frizzy strands. The best solution to this is to use a humidity-protective gel before styling. These gels help by forming a protective coat over the hair cuticle and preventing moisture from getting in. You can also follow up with a non-sticky hairspray for extra protection. It is better to use an aerosol, since it gives out a fine spray. A spray with a regular nozzle can give out too much of the product, which can result in clumps of your hair turning sticky later on in the day. Try not to use more than four different hair care products at a time. This will save you time. A normal routine would be to use a shampoo, followed by conditioner, styling gel, and hairspray.

Do not experiment too much

On rainy and extra-humid days, it is usually better not to force your hair into a style that does not feel right. For example, do not attempt to curl hair that is fine and limp or straighten hair that is naturally curly. This is because even a small amount of moisture absorbed by your hair will make it revert back to its natural texture, and your efforts will be in vain. Instead, try and make the most of your natural hair texture by adopting a style that suits you. Rub a generous amount of gel through curls for that tousled look. For fine and straight hair, pulling it back into a ponytail or braid works best.

Choose hair care products wisely

Frizzy hair is usually dealt with by using hair cream or similar products to smooth it down. But this can have an adverse effect, by allowing your hair to absorb moisture and making it look greasy or sticky. During the rainy season, it is better to stick to alcohol-based creams and gels since they have a drying effect on hair. Leave moisturising products for use in the winter months.

Accessorise

If you cannot quite get your hair to behave the way you want it to, do not fret. The right accessories can not only cover up a bad-hair day but can also make a fashion statement. A colourful scarf can cover up most of your frizzy ends, while a funky hairband works for shorter hair. If all else fails, just grab a hat for that slightly bohemian look. With so many ways to keep your hair looking and feeling great even when it's wet, it is time for you to go ahead and enjoy that rain dance!

Do you have a problem managing your hair during the rains? What special care do you take to keep hair looking good in the monsoon? To share your views and opinions, click here.