1. “The Sun is NOT Your Hair’s BFF”
“Treat your hair like skin, and protect it from the sun.”
While you may already be layering SPF on your face and body, your hair is often the forgotten casualty of UV damage. According to Maria, direct sun exposure can strip hair of moisture and fade colour rapidly. If throwing your hair up in a topknot or into a hat, doesn’t do the trick, try UV-protectant hair products like Label.M’s Sun Protection Spray.
2. Hydration is Everything (Seriously, Everything)
“Your hair’s ends are 4–5 years old. Treat them like vintage silk.”
In the heat, your scalp may sweat, but your ends are silently suffering. Staying hydrated is all so important during these months, in order to replenish moisture both inside and out. Maria recommends in-salon hydration treatments or overnight nourishment using Kerastase Elixir Ultime. Moisturise before and after sun exposure, and think of it as SPF and after-sun for your hair.
3. Fight the Frizz, Don’t Feed It
“Humidity will test your patience — and your hairline.”
Come summer and we all face the horror of a frizz fest. To keep things glossy, not puffy, Maria swears by Olaplex No.6 as a leave-in treatment. Try Colour WOW Dream Coat or Kerastase Discipline Fluidissime, both are lightweight, anti-frizz heroes that give hair a mirror-like shine. “These are game-changers if you want that smooth, glassy finish,” she says.
4. Swim Smart (and Shower First!)
“Soak your hair before the sea does.”
Pro Tip: always shower your hair before diving in. “The hair cuticle can only absorb so much water. If it’s already saturated with clean water, it won’t soak up as much salt or chlorine,” Maria explains. You can even pre-coat your hair with a masque for double protection. And don’t forget a post-swim treatment, “You won’t see the damage now, but it shows up three weeks later.”
5. Protect Your Colour Investment
“Colour-treated hair needs its own summer game plan.”
Between chlorine, sun and frequent washing, coloured hair faces a unique summer challenge. Maria insists on colour-specific shampoos and leave-ins, especially during the warmer months. Maria suggests a lightweight detangler like Label M Protein Spray, which shields colour and keeps hair ultra-manageable.
“Summer doesn’t have to mean sacrificing healthy hair. With the right rituals, you can enjoy the sun, and keep your shine.”
So whether you’re jetting off to the Amalfi Coast or brunching by the Dubai Marina, remember: the best accessory you wear this season is your hair. Keep it hydrated, protected and styled to perfection.