Photo credit: Luke O’Brien Creative.
Summer’s Here – Is Your Scalp Ready?
Guys, let’s talk head game. Summer means beach days, rooftop drinks, workouts that leave you drenched—and, unfortunately, greasy roots, itchy scalp, or full-on flake storms. Not the vibe.
But no worries. Whether you’re keeping it buzzed, braided, or brushed back, this guide covers all the essentials for a fresh, healthy scalp and a great hair day—every day. Let’s keep your scalp cool, hair sharp, and confidence up.
Know Your Scalp & Hair Type
Before you load up on products or blame the weather, figure out your scalp type:
Oily Scalp: Looks greasy by evening? You’re probably overproducing sebum.
Dry Scalp: Itchy, tight, and flaky? You’re lacking hydration.
Combo/Normal: Oil at the roots, dryness at the ends? Totally common.
Before you load up on products or blame the weather, figure out your scalp type:
Also, know your hair type – curly, coarse, fine, color-treated? This matters big when choosing the right products that won’t over-strip or weigh you down.
Smart Cleansing Habits
Rule #1: In summer, sweat and pollution cling to your scalp like Velcro.
Solution: Wash your hair daily or every other day – especially if you hit the gym, wear hats, or work outdoors.
Use a sulfate-free shampoo that won’t dry out your scalp. Massage it into your scalp—NOT your ends. Then follow with a lightweight conditioner at the tips only.
Pro Tip: Try the “sandwich method”—shampoo, conditioner, then a splash of cold water to close the cuticle.
Exfoliate & Treat Build-up Weekly
Your scalp is skin, and it needs exfoliating—especially in humid months. Once a week, use a scalp scrub with ingredients like:
Salicylic acid (removes dead skin & prevents clogged follicles)
Activated charcoal or sea salt (deep cleanses oil & grime)
Weekly exfoliation helps reduce:
Seasonal shedding
Flakes
Product buildup
Clogged follicles that stunt growth
Moisture & Nourishment for Scalp & Ends
If your scalp gets dry or your hair feels brittle, it's hydration time:
Shampoos with Aloe Vera or Coconut Water restore moisture
Jojoba or Argan Oil – Gently massage into the scalp once or twice a week
Use a deep conditioner or masque weekly – especially if you swim often
Your diet matters too:
Load up on protein, omega-3s, zinc, and biotin
Think: eggs, fish, spinach, almonds
Sun, Sweat & Water Protection
UV rays can scorch your scalp and fade your hair. Protect it like you would your face.
Spray on UV protectant hair mists or wear a light hat
Rinse hair before and after swimming—wet hair absorbs less chlorine/salt
Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to detox after beach or pool days
Bonus: Wearing a hat also reduces sweat-related breakouts around your hairline.
Styling Choices That Won’t Melt
Choose cuts and styles that work with the heat—not against it.
Best summer styles:
Clean fades
Cropped buzz cuts
Short textured layers
Avoid: Heavy gels or waxes that melt and clog your pores. Instead, use:
Clay-based pomades or matte creams that hold without buildup
And skip tight styles that tug the scalp—like man buns or super-tight braids—especially if your scalp feels inflamed or flaky.
Watch for Warning Signs & Seasonal Hair Loss
Yes, summer shedding is real. Heat and fungus growth (yep) on sweaty scalps can trigger more hair loss than normal.
Watch for:
Persistent flakes, itchiness
Redness or sore patches
Increased shedding into your sink
Try:
Dandruff shampoos with zinc pyrithione or salicylic acid
Scalp massages to boost blood flow
Visiting a dermatologist if irritation doesn’t clear up in 2 weeks
Quick Daily Summer Hair & Scalp Routine
Morning: Wash with mild shampoo, condition ends only
Midday (after sweating): Quick rinse or towel off sweat
Night: Scalp massage with lightweight oil (if dry)
Weekly: Scrub/exfoliate + deep conditioner
Want fresher scalp days and smoother styling without the fuss?
Check out:
🔗 Billy Jealousy’s new Matte Texture Powder
🔗 Grooming Tonic or Spray Grooming Tonic from Reuzel
🔗 Billy Jealousy Stable Condition Matte Cream
🔗 Reuzel Scrub Shampoo - available in travel or full-size bottles
FAQs
How often should I shampoo in summer?
If you’re sweating daily, wash daily or every other day to avoid buildup.
What’s a good summer hairstyle for thick hair?
Tapered fades or short textured layers keep thick hair manageable.
Can sunburn affect my scalp?
Yes! Scalp burns can damage follicles. Use hats or SPF sprays.
Is summer hair loss permanent?
Usually, no – seasonal shedding is common. But if it continues, consult a specialist.
Final Thoughts
Summer’s wild—but your hair game doesn’t have to be. With smart habits, solid products, and scalp-friendly routines, you’ll dodge flakes, sweat buildup, and shedding like a pro.
Your next step? Upgrade your grooming shelf, lock down your go-to summer cut, and give your scalp the TLC it’s earned. Let’s make every hair day a power move.