Curly hair summer blowout routine for hot climates

As I was writing this piece, a notification from the New York Times popped up on my phone, warning me that Texas was in a zone labeled “Danger” in terms of heat. “Heat cramps or heat exhaustion is likely,” it read. “Heat stroke is also possible.” Very cute and very exciting times!

It’s nearly impossible to maintain a good blowout under these conditions. I’m not a hair genius by any measure, but I am a curly-haired person. This means a big portion of my time (and my money, but we try to ignore that part) goes to making my hair work for me.

During the summer, I wear my hair naturally most days. If it’s going to frizz up anyway, I’d rather not give it more heat damage and further aggravate the frizz cycle. Sometimes, though, I want to look sleek and shiny. Like an Afghan Hound. And honestly, this routine saves me so much time in the mornings compared to curly days.

That being said, here’s how I manage a frizz-free and bouncy blowout in feels-like-110°, hot and humid weather.

Ceremonia Aceite de Moska, $25

I’ve found that the key to making sure your blowout lasts is underlying healthy hair. Who knew? On every wash day, about thirty minutes to an hour pre-wash I coat my scalp in oil. Really, the longer you can keep this in, the better. If I were planning to take a morning shower, I’d use it as an overnight treatment. And, if you want a little extra TLC, their Scalp Power-Duo comes with a scalp massager to exfoliate the scalp and help distribute the product.

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector, $30

She needs no explanation, but I’ll give one anyway. Because I heat style my hair, we have to combat damage somehow. I typically use this one to two times per week, and keep it on for, again, as long as possible. I always leave it in for at least ten minutes, but if I’m feeling especially dry.

Ouai Scalp & Body Scrub (St. Barts), $38

I like to use a scalp scrub after I’ve just finished a curly cycle, to really get any lingering product residue out of there. Especially before I pile on a bunch of new products. This one doubles as a body scrub and smells like a really nice beach.

Eva NYC Therapy Session Hair Mask, $15

Rather than going in with a normal conditioner, I go in with as intense of a deep conditioner as I can find. And, again, leave it on for as long as possible. Sometimes I’ll leave the shower, pop my hair into a bun, And watch TikTok until I remember I have to wash it out. This is a massive tub, it smells like sugar, and it works. Triple threat!

Briogeo Superfoods Avocado + Kiwi Mega Moisture 3-in-1 Leave-in Spray, $25

This leave-in spray from Briogeo helps detangle, condition and protect from UV rays (which can leave the hair brittle and dry). I use it every time I get out of the shower, regardless of what my plan for styling is.

Rough Blow Dry

This is maybe the least glamorous part of any of my beauty routines. You know those hurricane simulators at boardwalks and arcades? This is a lot like that. All you’re doing is getting it dry. But it’s part of the process. Trust it.

Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil, $30

Pretending like I haven’t just committed a crime against hairstylists everywhere, I smooth this oil onto my ends, working my way up. They recommend a few drops, but because this is high stakes, I go in with closer to six to seven. It protects from heat, while restoring existing damage, so it’s an automatic win for me.

Revlon One Step Hair Dryer, $40

Some people know how to style with a blowdryer and a round brush. I am not one of those people. It’s too complex and might involve arm strength that I do not possess. This gives me the ability to smooth and add little flips at my ends, as if I were a real pro. Run it through, twisting and curling in whatever method feels natural until everything’s not so frizzy anymore.