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Divia Harilela

Contributing writer for Style by SCMP, specialising in fashion, beauty and lifestyle


There are many things to love about summer hair: the textured, effortless waves created after taking a dip in the ocean; natural, golden highlights from the sun; and the chance to sport chic headgear like headbands or silk scarves. There is one look, though, that isn’t so desirable: frizzy, unruly hair.
Summer frizz isn’t exactly a new phenomenon and is often connected to environmental factors like rising humidity.

“During the summer months there is more water in the air. This excess moisture is absorbed by the hair, breaking its natural hydrogen bonds and causing frizz. It can also cause the hair shaft to swell and the outer cuticle layer to lift, reshaping the hair into different forms and shapes,” explains trichologist Andrea Clark.
While humidity tends to get the blame for frizz, it isn’t the only factor to consider. Experts acknowledge the role that scalp or hair health – especially when dry and stressed – plays in creating the perfect environment for frizz. In which case, it can be more of a year-round problem for many women.
“Frizz usually comes from a mix of cuticle damage, dry scalp, friction and using the wrong hair products,” says Brenda Lee, founder of Beyorg Organic Hair Studio, which specialises in natural, chemical-free hair care and treatments. “Humidity may trigger it, but bad everyday habits such as heat styling, chemical colouring, harsh washing and rough towel-drying can damage the hair’s protective outer layer and make frizzy hair worse without people realising it.”
Contrary to popular belief, almost all hair types can experience frizz, although dry, curly and textured hair are more prone due to their lack of moisture. Colour-treated and bleached hair are also at risk as chemical processes can lift the protective outer cuticle, making hair highly porous and reactive.

“There are many methods to treat frizz, but I always suggest that my clients start with their hair health. It’s important to renourish the hair and make it as healthy as possible, especially in the area closest to the cuticle. The best way to support this is a mix of products and a consistent hair regimen,” says Clark.
Rossano Ferretti, founder of an eponymous luxury haircare brand which has a salon at the Rosewood Hong Kong, suggests a routine that is simple and nourishing, including a sulphate-free gentle shampoo followed by a conditioner or nourishing mask. Look for products with natural ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, organic botanicals rich in antioxidants like green tea, as well as natural plant-based keratin to help soften and strengthen the hair.

An arsenal of the right products is also essential. Many brands including Oribe and Davines have specialised anti-frizz ranges. Choose hydrophobic products that form a water-resistant barrier while promising additional moisturising properties. Silicones are not recommended as they can leave a film that’s hard to wash out, so Clark suggests looking for water-soluble ingredients like lanolin, lightweight oils like jojoba, amino acids and wheat protein to provide a good balance of protein and moisture.
Other essentials include anti-humidity sprays that provide heat protection during blow-drying and frizz-control creams, more suitable for women with thicker hair. Ferretti recommends a leave-in product like his brand’s Vivace Leave In Conditioner Spray for people who style their hair often.
Experts also suggest moisturising treatments or masks once a week, or more if the hair is severely damaged. A.O.R’s Intensive Moisturising Hair Mask features antioxidants like astaxanthin while an advanced lipid complex provides nutrients to repair and strengthen hair. The K18 Molecular Mask is another favourite and is clinically proven to reverse damage from bleach and colouring chemicals.

For those who are looking for a more long-term solution, there are also a host of professional smoothing treatments available although note that these often include a mix of chemical and natural ingredients that can come with additional risks.
“When we speak about stronger chemical smoothing treatments, I always believe there should be caution and professional guidance. One big change with treatments today is that they are much more personalised and respectful of the hair’s natural texture,” says Ferretti. “Sometimes a little frizz is also part of the hair’s personality. I think we should not become too obsessed with controlling every little movement, otherwise everybody starts looking the same, no?” he says.
Brenda Lee shares 5 natural ingredients that help battle frizz
Hydrolysed protein: Similar in composition to hair keratin, these proteins deeply penetrate hair strands, strengthening and nourishing hair from within.
Lecithin: Rich in phospholipids, it is known for its effective regenerating properties.
Rose hip seed oil: Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, it’s highly effective for dry or damaged hair and scalps.
Glycerine: This humectant helps fight frizz by drawing moisture from the air and sealing it in the hair’s shafts.
Coconut oil: Good for reducing dryness and helping with moisture retention.


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Humid summers can spell trouble for your hair – clamp down on frizz by paying close attention to hair health, starting with your products


Humid summers can spell trouble for your hair – clamp down on frizz by paying close attention to hair health, starting with your products.


How to get frizz-free summer hair: watch what products you use on both your hair and scalp

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Humid summers can spell trouble for your hair – clamp down on frizz by paying close attention to hair health, starting with your products

Humid summers can spell trouble for your hair – clamp down on frizz by paying close attention to hair health, starting with your products