How I Care for My Hair After Holidays, Beach & Sun
Every summer, I come back from vacation with great memories—and hair that feels dry, tangled, and frizzy. Between sun, saltwater, chlorine, wind, and dry air, hair can lose its softness and shine.
After a few summers of dealing with this, I created a simple, natural recovery routine that helps my hair feel softer and more manageable again. Here’s exactly what I do.
Step 1: Start with Aloe Vera Shampoo
The first thing I avoid after a holiday is harsh shampoo. I switch to a gentle, aloe vera-based shampoo that soothes the scalp and helps hair feel hydrated without stripping it.
Aloe vera is naturally rich in vitamins and enzymes that can help calm the scalp, and it supports moisture where sun exposure has left hair feeling dry. I also look for panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) for softness and manageability. This step sets the foundation for everything that comes next.
Step 2: Protein Mask—But Not Every Wash
When my hair feels limp, flat, or less “alive” than usual, it’s usually time for a protein treatment. I do this about once a month, or whenever my hair feels like it needs extra support.
This mask is rich in hydrolyzed proteins and nourishing oils that help hair feel stronger and more resilient. I apply it to damp hair, leave it on for 15–20 minutes, then rinse. It makes a noticeable difference in bounce and strength—but it’s not something I do every wash day.
Step 3: Deep Conditioner for Moisture
Next, I use a rich deep conditioner made with organic shea butter, sweet almond oil, and extra virgin olive oil—my go-to for intense hydration. I apply it from mid-length to ends, wrap my hair in a towel or shower cap, and let it sit for about 20 minutes.
It helps revive the driest parts of my hair, brings back softness, and tames frizz without weighing hair down.
Step 4: Style—or Not—Depending on Your Hair Type
If I’m going for defined, tighter curls, I apply my flaxseed gel while my hair is soaking wet. It gives natural hold without a stiff, crunchy finish and helps curls form beautifully.
But if you have straight or wavy hair, you can skip the gel. Just use a silicone-free serum—it helps seal in moisture, adds shine, tames flyaways, and offers light heat protection if you’re blow-drying or styling. It’s lightweight and won’t leave buildup.
Bonus Tips I Swear By
- Trim your ends regularly—don’t hold on to crispy bits.
- Skip heat styling for a few weeks—air-dry or braid instead.
- Use a wide-tooth comb, not a brush, on wet hair.
- Sleep on a silk pillowcase to help reduce friction overnight.
Your Hair Can Feel Better—Naturally
I make all my products in small batches using organic ingredients because I believe hair care should be simple, clean, and effective. You don’t have to do every step every time you wash your hair—just give your hair what it needs when it needs it.
Ready to give your hair a natural reset? Shop Handmade Hair Care