Summer in Vienna has something: the sun shines warmly on Stephansplatz, and everywhere in the city, people stroll who are visibly in vacation mode. But while we apply sunscreen and don't forget the head covering, few think about their hair. Yet good hair care is more important than ever in summer, and we as hairdressers on Singerstraße Vienna know this especially well.
Because what does summer do to our hair? UV radiation dries out the structure, makes hair ends brittle, and even fades colored hair. Salt water from the beach and chlorine from the pool remove moisture and leave a rough surface. With blondes, chlorine can even cause the infamous green tint – not exactly the look you wanted for summer nights in Viennese pubs.
Why UV Protection for Hair Is Important
While our skin can recover from sun damage, it's different with hair. Once damaged, the traces remain – at least until the next visit to Hair Salon 1010 Vienna. UV radiation breaks down the proteins in the hair that provide stability and shine. The result is dry, dull hair that becomes brittle and fragile.
The best protection is of course a head covering – hat, scarf, or cap – especially during midday hours when the sun is strongest. Those who don't want to wear anything on their head can find special leave-in conditioners with UV filters and hair oils with sun protection at our salon at Stephansplatz. These products form a protective barrier and prevent the rays from directly hitting the hair structure.
Preparation Is Everything: Before the Beach or Pool
Those going to the swimming pool or the sea should first moisten their hair with fresh water. Why? Because wet hair absorbs less salt and chlorine than dry hair. An additional layer of leave-in conditioner or hair oil forms an extra barrier and keeps harmful substances away. Especially with colored hair, a special color protection spray is recommended.
Wear your hair best as a braid or bun – this reduces the surface exposed to water. With our customers at HairLoft Vienna, we always recommend having the ends trimmed and doing an intensive mask before vacation. This way, you start the summer with healthy hair, and that makes a huge difference.
Immediate Measures After Swimming
After swimming, you should rinse your hair as soon as possible with fresh water to remove salt and chlorine residues. A mild rinse without shampoo is usually enough – the hair needs moisture now, not intensive cleansing. A rich conditioner provides the necessary moisture, and when drying your hair, gently press it with a towel instead of rubbing vigorously.
For those who don't have a shower available at the pool or beach: a spray bottle with fresh water and a leave-in conditioner spray are the perfect companions. You can moisten and care for the hair in between without having to go into the water.
The Summer Washing Routine
In summer, adjust your washing routine. After the beach or pool, immediate rinsing is important, followed by a mild, sulfate-free shampoo. Rich conditioners and once a week an intensive hair mask with aloe vera or glycerin provide moisture. On normal days, wash more frequently if needed if you're sweating under your scalp, but use lighter conditioners and avoid heavy styling products.
Especially with blonde hair, chlorine can cause an unpleasant green tint. In such cases, home remedies like tomato sauce or a baking soda paste help neutralize the tone. For stubborn green, however, you should seek professional help in the salon.
Intensive Care for Summer
Once a week, you should especially pamper your hair. Moisture masks with aloe vera or glycerin are ideal for sun-stressed hair. Overnight working oil cures provide intensive care, and protein treatments strengthen the hair structure after beach days. At HairLoft Vienna, we offer special summer treatments that strengthen your hair from outside and inside.
Daily care should also be adjusted. A leave-in conditioner with UV protection belongs to the summer basic equipment, as do light oils for the ends. Hydrating sprays in between prevent the hair from drying out, especially during long walks through Vienna's city center.
Styling in Summer: Natural Is Trump
Summer is the perfect time to let hair air dry. Natural curls or beach waves look fantastic and don't need extra styling. A texture spray gives grip and volume without heat being necessary.
If you want to tie your hair together, protective hairstyles are ideal: a high bun shades the head, braided styles last all day, and a loose ponytail is practical and elegant. A turban made of soft fabric is not only stylish but also protects from the sun.
Color Protection for Colored Hair
Colored hair needs special attention in summer. Before going in the sun, definitely apply a UV protection spray, and wear a head covering when out and about. After the beach, immediate rinsing is important, and at home, color-protecting shampoos without sulfates help preserve the color.
Especially with blonde tones, caution is advised. Purple shampoo helps with yellowing, and extra care is essential with chlorine. Silver tones should never go into the sun without UV protection – the result would be an unpleasant color change that only a professional can correct.
The Perfect Vacation Preparation
Before you go on vacation, you should optimally prepare your hair. Have the ends trimmed, do an intensive mask, and refresh the color in time – ideally a week before, so the color can settle. Pack travel sizes of your care products, UV protection spray, hair oil, a soft headband, a wide-tooth comb, and soft hair ties without metal.
Our tip: book an appointment at HairLoft at Stephansplatz before and after your vacation. We prepare your hair and repair it afterward – this way, you start and end the summer with healthy, beautiful hair. Because one thing is certain: summer should create memories, not hair damage.
Enjoy the summer – we take care of your hair!
