How to protect hair from rising summer heat

Rising temperatures and environmental stress often leave hair dry and difficult to manage. In a recent interview with HT Lifestyle, aesthetic dermatologist Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta and beauty scientist Sacharissa shared essential advice for maintaining a low-heat routine during summer.

High heat reshapes hair by altering internal structures, but frequent exposure weakens keratin, the protein providing strength and elasticity.

This damage often manifests as lifted cuticles, making hair appear dull and prone to tangling. Dr Geetika noted, "During summer, prolonged exposure to UV radiation and heat can gradually impact the hair’s protein structure and natural pigment, leading to dryness, dullness, and reduced strength."

Why high heat isn’t always high style?

Excessive thermal styling interacts negatively with summer conditions, leading to several issues:

• Moisture loss: Heat strips natural oils, leaving hair dry and brittle.
• Protein damage: High temperatures weaken keratin, increasing breakage.
• Scalp stress: Excess heat can lead to dryness and irritation.
• Hair thinning: Sweat combined with heat may weaken follicles over time.

Why does less or no heat work better?

Adopting smarter styling practices protects hair resilience. Sacharissa suggests the following tips for healthier summer hair:

• Allow hair to partially air dry before using tools, as wet hair typically requires higher, more damaging heat.
• Use tools that provide consistent, controlled heat to shape hair effectively without sudden temperature spikes.

By reducing unnecessary heat, individuals ensure their hair stays strong, shiny, and manageable despite the humidity.