Let’s be real, I’ve lost count of how many times someone’s asked me, “But how do you keep your hair that bright in the summer?” Between the sun, sea, sweat, and way too much dry shampoo, coloured hair can fade fast, especially when you’re like me and your hair’s been through every colour of the rainbow (and then some).
As a content creator and lover of all things neon, pastel, and vibrant, keeping my hair healthy is non-negotiable. There’s no point in having gorgeous colour if your hair feels like straw by August. So I’ve built up a solid routine that keeps my colour popping and my hair in good shape, no matter how much sun I’m chasing.
Here are four summer haircare essentials that genuinely help me protect, hydrate and revive my colourful mane.
1. Gentle Everyday Hair Care Products That Don’t Strip Colour
When your hair’s been dyed as much as mine, the basics really matter. Your shampoo and conditioner need to be gentle, hydrating, and free from anything that might pull colour out quicker than you can say magenta roots.
I always look for sulphate-free options with strengthening ingredients, and I rotate between colour-safe shampoos and something more moisturising, depending on what my hair’s craving. A good set of hair care products tailored for coloured or damaged hair is an absolute must in the summer.
Look for formulas with things like rice protein, aloe vera, and plant oils. They clean without stripping, and they give your hair a little boost when it’s feeling dry from sun exposure.
2. Hair Masks That Bring the Colour Back to Life
A weekly hair mask for dyed hair is non-negotiable in my world. These masks are specially made to help maintain vibrancy while giving your hair that intense hit of moisture it loses in the heat. Think of it like skincare for your scalp and ends.
I try to do a deep treatment once or twice a week, especially if I’ve been out in the sun or used heat tools. These masks can seriously bring dull hair back from the dead and help seal in colour between dye jobs. Some even have colour pigments built-in, which I love for topping up pinks and purples without a full dye.
3. Overnight Hair Masks for Lazy-Girl Hydration
Some nights I just don’t have the energy for a whole hair care ritual, and that’s where an overnight hair mask comes in. These are absolute magic. You slather it on, pop your hair in a loose bun, throw a towel on your pillow, and wake up with hair that feels like you’ve just left the salon.
Overnight masks are brilliant for repairing summer damage. Whether it’s salt water, UV rays or chlorine from the pool, your hair goes through a lot in the warmer months. I usually do an overnight mask once a week during the summer, and it keeps my ends from feeling brittle or snapping off. Bonus points if you’ve got a silk or satin pillowcase, by the way.
4. Kérastase Treatments That Actually Work
I avoided Kérastase for ages because I assumed it was all hype. Then I tried one of their leave-in conditioners and oh. my. god. It’s the one brand I keep coming back to when my hair needs real TLC. Their range for coloured and damaged hair is next-level, and yes, they’ve got vegan-friendly options too.
I use their serums and oils when I’m heat styling or heading out in the sun. It’s like armour for your hair. A few drops smoothed through the ends before drying can completely change how your hair feels, softer, shinier, and way less frizzy.
Look, I know having bold hair is a commitment. It fades faster, it gets dry quicker, and it needs a little more attention when summer rolls in. But honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. There’s something powerful about rocking your favourite colour on your head and owning it.
If you’ve got any cruelty-free favourites for keeping dyed hair healthy, drop me a message. Always up for trying something new.
