One fantastic thing about the region in which I live is that my red hair and I get to experience all four seasons. I love ’em all, from those sweltering 90 degree summers to the sub-Arctic winters. But this time of year – the middle of spring – is my absolute favorite. The budding trees, the long days and cool nights; the world seems brighter, happier, scrubbed fresh.
The one thing I don’t love, however, is what starts to happen to my hair when the weather gets warm, sunny and, inevitably, more humid. In the morning, before I’ve even stepped outside, I can literally feel my hair swell until it’s taken on Grace Coddington-like proportions. An icon that she is, Grace rocks this look but a mere mortal like me just looks like I’ve had a mishap involving my finger and an electrical socket. But thankfully wavy-haired girls needn’t suffer summer bad-hair days any longer. With the help of some awesome products on the market, taming our manes has become (dare I say) easy!
Below are tips and my favorite ‘redhead friendly’ product recommendations for curly redheads:
1. Keep it simple.
Don’t try to fight what nature’s given you. Put that flat iron away and embrace those curls. You and your red hair will be much happier for it, and you’ll save loads of time in the morning.
2. Shampoo and conditioner can make or break your style.
A hydrating, smoothing formula will help calm the frizz before you’ve even picked up a brush. One of my favorites is SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine. It’s hydrating, sulfate-free and doesn’t break the bank.
3. Stop brushing!
3. Stop brushing!This is a good time of year to conveniently forget to use one. Brushing only enhances unwanted fluff and flyaways. Try switching to a wide-toothed comb and only using it when absolutely necessary. After all, the tousled bedhead look never goes out of style.
READ: Styling Tips for Naturally Curly Red Hair
4. Use serums, oils and leave-in conditioners.
They will all become your new best friends. These miracle products instantly reduce frizz but are light enough to let your red hair flow and bounce (as long as you concentrate on the ends. Avoid the scalp to keep your locks from getting limp). Use them on dry hair as a lightweight finisher or straight out of the shower for a deeper effect.
Alterna Caviar CC Cream for Hair 10-in-1 Complete Correction:
Ouidad Moisture-Lock Leave-In Conditioner:
5. Try a topknot.
Wrap your hair in a quick, loose bun while you get ready in the morning and shake it out right before you walk out the door. The result will be casual waves that are good for either a day at the office or lounging on the beach. Using a sea salt spray will help enhance and hold your style without making it too crunchy or formal.
And the most important step: always Rock it like a Redhead!
