How to get your hair back in shape after summer All the steps to follow for hair that needs nourishing and rebalancing

Needless to say, despite our best intentions, maintaining a good haircare routine while on holiday is always complicated. And the results become obvious as soon as we return to everyday life, standing in front of the mirror in our own bathroom: dry ends, dull lengths and hair that feels more fragile than usual. Of course, no one is stopping us from getting a haircut, but before making the final decision, we can try to bring our hair back into balance with a more targeted haircare routine.

Post-holiday haircare routine: how to get your hair back in shape after summer

Detox time for your scalp

Before focusing on the lengths, it’s important to give the scalp some attention. After weeks of sweat, sun protection and frequent washing, there may be a buildup of residue that leaves it feeling heavier. You can therefore alternate a specific scalp scrub, to remove dead skin cells and impurities, with a detox shampoo, used approximately once a week. Gently massaging the scalp while washing, either with your fingertips or a dedicated tool, is another small step that can help stimulate microcirculation and keep the scalp healthy and strong.

Pre-shampoo

For dry and damaged lengths, especially if you have bleached, treated or particularly damaged hair, a pre-shampoo treatment is a must. Whether it’s a nourishing mask, an oil or a specific treatment, the important thing is to apply it before shampooing, helping to protect the hair during washing and preventing it from becoming even more dehydrated. There’s no need to do it every time you wash your hair: once or twice a week is more than enough.

Shampoo, mask and conditioner

Now for the actual wash. Among the keywords to look for in your products are definitely: hydrating, plumping and nourishing. Shampoo should be applied mainly to the scalp: avoid rubbing it into the lengths, so as not to dry them out further. The product that runs down the hair during rinsing will be enough to cleanse the rest. Then, it’s time for the mask. Choose a deeply hydrating formula that also helps with detangling, or a repairing treatment if the hair fiber is particularly stressed. Finally, conditioner, which helps seal the hair fiber and leaves the surface of the hair softer and smoother.

Post-wash

Once you step out of the shower, your hair is even more vulnerable and needs protection before blow-drying. It’s important to apply a leave-in treatment, which helps maintain moisture and, depending on the product, repair the hair fiber, as well as a heat protectant, which is essential every time you use a hairdryer, especially if you’re going to follow with a straightener or curling iron. To complete the routine, a few drops of oil on still-damp ends can help lock in moisture, reduce frizz and leave the hair looking shinier.