Humidity Hair Syndrome (or HHS, as we like to refer to it in the TLE Office after a particularly sticky commute), is something we all suffer with. In fact, if you’re living in the city, it’s almost impossible to avoid. High summer often means one thing in the urban jungle, and that’s heat – clingy, residual, dewey heat, that swiftly dishevels the most done of looks and (shocker) kills any attempt at a blow dry you might have had. For those of us who then have to face meetings, clients and social engagements, it can prove nightmarish and, frankly, quite tiresome. Who really has time to constantly keep an eye on it?
Deep into high summer in London, this has been on our team’s mind more than ever. Beauty in 2015 really should be effortless, but when you’re fighting the elements, that theory gets thrown out of the window. At least when it rains we can hold an umbrella – but for the heat? We needed to find an equivalent. According to Jo Hansford, founder of the eponymous Mayfair salon, it’s all about the preparation.
“If you have thick or frizzy hair, the best way to start fighting humidity is by using an Anti-Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner,” begins Jo. “The Jo Hansford products contain Keratin Derivative and Amino Acid and Algae complex, which surround the hair follicle, infusing moisture whilst protecting from humidity and stimulating growth. This improves the structure of the hair and protects the hair follicles from any future damage, leaving you with soft, smooth, manageable hair. After continual use, the hair will no longer be prone to frizz.”
“When out and about in humid weather, you can carry a travel sized gel and mini Illuminoil in your handbag. If your hair turns frizzy whilst out, mix the same amount of gel and Illuminoil together in the palm of your hand and pat sparingly over your hair. Run your hands through your hair very lightly. The serum will de-frizz and the gel will re-set your hair.”
“You should also avoid straightening or washing your hair too often in hot weather. The former will cause your hair to become dry, damaged and frazzled looking and more susceptible to humidity. Embrace your natural waves every now and then – people will love the change! The latter will allow the natural oils that build up on your hair, which are great humidity fighters! You can always use a dry shampoo in-between washing if you are worried about grease.”
“When you blow dry your hair in the summer, do so in sections and always make sure your hair is completely dry before leaving the house – if it’s even a little bit damp, moisture in the air will make your hair frizz. Also, always use a nozzle on the hairdryer and direct it down the hair shaft, and finish with a blast of cool air to close the cuticles keeping frizz away. You can also use the Jo Hansford Illuminoil before blow drying or on dry hair to control frizz and enhance shine.”
“When it’s humid outside, shield your tresses from humidity by putting them up till you arrive at your destination. This will mean that less of your hair is exposed to the humid conditions and the bottom layers will stay sleek! Take your hair down upon arrival, and run your palms over any flyaways; the natural oils on your skin will help smooth them.”
“For a more permanent solution, book in for a Keratin Straightening treatment. This treatment contains Keratin, the primary protein in hair, which is sealed into it to trap the moisture, hydrate and leave it smooth, shiny and glossy. The process eliminates frizz and will speed up blow drying, leaving hair instantly manageable for up to 12 weeks. It can be used on both coloured and chemically treated hair.”
Miguel Perez Principle Stylist, Josh Wood, agrees. “One way to achieve a smooth look yourself in humid weather is with a Brazilian Blowdry, an amazing service I offer at The Atelier. This will reduced frizz and will give the hair a salon professional finish for up to 3 months, depending on how well you care for your hair – you must always use the correct shampoos and conditioners after having Brazilian.”
“If you don’t want to commit to that, then remember that cracking the frizz is all about hydration. Before washing your hair make sure you apply some conditioner, to protect and nourish dryer parts. Use the shampoo only on the roots, and use a leave in conditioner (I recommend the O&M serum and Sacha Juan Leave in Conditioner spray). You can braid you hair too, and when dry, remove the braid – you will be left with a bohemian beach wave look. This Summer it’s all about the effortless styling, so this is an easy way to get that natural wave.”