Ah, the summer heat of July is here, and it’s the perfect time to rethink your hair care routine! Dry hair brushing has become a popular technique, but knowing when it benefits your locks versus when it could cause damage is crucial for maintaining healthy summer hair. Let’s explore this simple yet impactful practice that might change your hair game this season.
Why dry brushing matters in summer heat
With temperatures soaring, our scalps produce more oils while simultaneously facing increased environmental stress. Dry hair brushing – brushing hair when it’s completely dry rather than wet – can help manage these summer-specific challenges by distributing natural oils and removing buildup without the breakage risk that comes with wet brushing.
“Dry brushing stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, which can enhance nutrient delivery to hair follicles,” explains Dr. Emma Richardson, a dermatologist specializing in hair health. “This increased circulation is particularly beneficial during summer when we want to maintain hair strength despite heat exposure.”
The surprising benefits of dry brushing in July
During these hot summer months, dry brushing offers several advantages:
- Distributes natural scalp oils down the hair shaft, providing natural protection against sun damage
- Removes product buildup and sweat residue that accumulates more quickly in summer
- Stimulates blood flow to the scalp, potentially encouraging healthier hair growth
- Gently exfoliates the scalp, removing dead skin cells that can block follicles
If you’re looking to stay cool while maintaining your style, consider this vintage-inspired ponytail that feels 5 degrees cooler – a perfect complement to a dry brushing routine.
When summer dry brushing becomes harmful
Despite its benefits, dry brushing isn’t always the right choice, especially during summer months when hair may already be stressed from sun exposure and swimming.
“Aggressive dry brushing on already damaged or fragile hair can exacerbate breakage and split ends,” warns Amanda Teller, celebrity hairstylist. “It’s like running a marathon without proper training – what should strengthen can actually weaken if done incorrectly.”
Avoid dry brushing when:
- Your hair is extremely tangled (use a wide-tooth comb instead)
- You have sunburned or irritated scalp
- Your hair is already showing signs of heat damage
- You’ve just applied styling products (allow them to fully dry first)
The perfect summer dry brushing technique
For those with longer styles, like these graduated layers that feel 3 degrees cooler, proper technique is crucial. Start at the ends and work your way up, using gentle strokes to avoid pulling or breaking hair strands that may be more brittle from sun exposure.
Boar bristle brushes are ideal for summer dry brushing as they effectively distribute oils without creating static or causing excessive damage. Think of your brush as a summer rain shower – gentle enough to refresh without causing damage.
Adapting your routine for different hair types
Summer affects everyone’s hair differently. Those with naturally dry hair should limit dry brushing to once daily, while oilier hair types might benefit from morning and evening sessions to redistribute sebum from the scalp.
For those considering a summer style change, this summer haircut feels 5 degrees cooler and pairs perfectly with a thoughtful dry brushing routine.
Combining dry brushing with summer color treatments
If you’ve opted for face-framing highlights that keep you cooler, be especially gentle when dry brushing. Color-treated hair is more vulnerable to damage, so use a softer brush and fewer strokes to maintain both your color and hair integrity.
The cooling bob: A perfect companion to dry brushing
Shorter styles like this 5-degree cooling bob benefit tremendously from proper dry brushing, which helps maintain volume and shape without added heat styling that can feel unbearable in July temperatures.
Your summer hair deserves the right care – is your dry brushing routine helping or hurting? By adjusting your technique to the season’s challenges, you can enjoy healthier, more manageable hair even in the hottest days of summer. Remember, like summer itself, the best approach to hair care balances warmth and refreshment.