Your Guide to Summer Scalp Care (Because Sweat Happens)
Let’s be honest—your scalp is skin too, and summer isn’t always kind.
Look, I get it. Summer is for breezy dresses, pool days, and pretending you live in a coastal romance movie. But while you’re living your best warm-weather life? Your scalp is over here sweating, itching, and plotting revenge.
Because let’s face it: heat, humidity, sun, and all those extra hair products to fight frizz can really mess with your scalp. And if you want healthy, happy hair? You can’t just ignore the roots. Literally.
Good news? Summer scalp care doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Just a few easy changes and you can ditch the grease, flakes, and discomfort—and focus on the fun instead.
Here’s your no-stress, bestie-approved guide:
1. Cleanse Without Over-stripping
Your scalp gets extra oily and sweaty in summer. Totally normal. The trick is finding the sweet spot: you want it clean, not squeaky dry.
Pick the right shampoo: Go for something gentle, sulfate-free, or clarifying-but-not-harsh. It’ll remove sweat and product buildup without leaving you with straw for hair.
Alternate washes: If you’re a daily-washer in summer, consider alternating with co-wash or even just a water rinse to avoid over-stripping natural oils.
Listen to your hair: Some people need more frequent washing in summer. That’s okay! Just be gentle.
2. Exfoliate to Remove Buildup
Your scalp is skin—so yes, it can get clogged. Sweat, sunscreen at your hairline, dry shampoo, styling cream...it all piles up.
Use a scalp scrub once or twice a week to gently lift away gunk.
Try a scalp brush in the shower to get a deep, satisfying clean.
Or opt for chemical exfoliant shampoos (think salicylic acid) if you’re oily or flake-prone.
Pro tip? Don’t overdo it. 1-2x a week is plenty.
3. Soothe That Irritation and Itch
Summer heat can make your scalp feel angry. Between sweat, sun, and frequent washing, it might get itchy, tight, or even inflamed.
Spritz on aloe vera or cooling scalp mists for relief on hot days.
Look for shampoos with tea tree oil or peppermint for a fresh, tingly clean.
Skip heavy, greasy products that clog pores or make it feel smothered.
Heads up: If you’ve got serious flakes, sores, or burning? Time to see a dermatologist. Your scalp deserves professional care if it’s unhappy.
4. Keep Sweat in Check (Without Freaking Out About It)
Sweat is normal. Like, really normal. Your scalp has a ton of sweat glands—so you can’t avoid it completely. But you can manage it.
Choose breathable hairstyles like braids, buns, and loose updos to keep air flowing.
Spritz on dry shampoo post-workout or on super humid days. It’ll soak up excess oil and sweat so you feel fresh.
Clean your hats and scarves! Seriously. Dirty hats = sweat, bacteria, and breakouts at your hairline.
5. Protect Your Scalp from the Sun
Your scalp can burn. (Yes, even through your part line. Ask me how I know.)
Use SPF sprays or powders specifically for your hairline and part.
Rock a wide-brim hat, scarf, or bandana. Not only protective but also a total fashion moment.
When you can, avoid midday sun. Chill in the shade with a cold drink instead.
Final Thoughts:
Your scalp deserves a little summer love, too. A healthy scalp means happier, stronger hair—and way less drama when it’s hot and sticky outside.
So go ahead. Take five extra minutes for these easy tweaks. Then get back to enjoying pool days, rooftop drinks, and every sweaty, sunshine-filled moment—without worrying your scalp is plotting against you.
Because hot girl summer? Includes healthy hair from root to tip.
