We have just about a month until classes start at the University of Alabama. This big move is a hard one. The first time you may be living away from your parents on your own, the first time you get to attend a football game, and you may be wondering… what do I bring to school?
A typical stereotype is you go to an SEC school and become blonder. Now that you have moved so far away, accessing your hairstylist may not be as easy. Along with this comes the nervousness about the Southern heat and humidity. But don't worry – we’ve got your back. Here at Hair Etc. Salon and Spa, we know all the secrets to keeping your hair looking fabulous, no matter how hot it gets. Let's dive into the must-have hair essentials that will make your transition to Alabama as smooth as your hair will be!
Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner
First things first: hydration. The humidity can dry out your hair, so you’ll need a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to keep your locks luscious and frizz-free. We recommend Redken's Acidic Bonding Concentrate. It’s perfect for strengthening hair bonds and providing intense conditioning – a total game-changer for your hair care routine. The water in Alabama is typically more “hard” than in other places, making your hair dry out quicker. If you allow your hair to keep drying out this is when your hair will become brittle, break, and appear stringy. We cannot stress this enough, invest in the right shampoo and conditioner off the bat. There are going to be so many changes occurring, the last thing you want to deal with is brittle hair. Unfortunately, once you damage your hair, it can take months to regrow and fix a simple mistake.
Hard water buildup
I myself am blonde. Moving to Alabama, I was shocked at how quickly my hair turned orange. This is again, from the hard water. No matter where you live, dorms, apartments, houses, etc. The water is super hard unless you have a showerhead filter. Don't let this one fool you, only specific types of shower head filters work too. My mother sent me one from Home Depot and it was not strong enough to help my hair. Since my hair is blonde and so porous, it will absorb anything put on it, very easily. Especially the orange water.
I go more into this topic in the Damaged Hair Blog that I also wrote. However, for now, if you do not have $165 to spend on a showerhead filter, or you know you will be moving houses/dorms/etc, and don't want to install one, don't fear. I was in the same position.
Honestly, right now, even after all the hard water build-up that has occurred on my hair, I still rely on the L'Oréal Metal Detox line. I use this before a big event, or once every few weeks. It is important not to overuse this, which I know is hard being a blonde, we always want to be lighter. So, once a week I will use a very potent purple shampoo, to switch it up.
The Add-ins
It is hard to create the perfect look because again it is so hot. From personal experience, when I sweat, I will touch up with a good dry shampoo. A good, strong one is necessary, it may make your hair feel dirty but it will stand the time of the sweating/heat.
To keep your hair looking silky and smooth, I go in with a serum/light oil to tame all the little flies away. This keeps me dry at the roots but soft and smooth through the ends. Make sure that this oil is super light so it does not weigh down in the humidity.
Silk Pillowcase
This is kind of a given, but swap out your cotton pillowcase for a silk one. It reduces friction, prevents breakage, and helps maintain your hairstyle overnight. They sell every color on Amazon, so it will match the decor in your room. These silk pillowcases help with not drying out your hair and ensuring your strands don't split.
With these essentials in your hair care arsenal, you’ll be ready to take on the Alabama heat and humidity with confidence. Welcome to your new home, and don’t forget to visit us at Hair Etc. Salon and Spa for all your hair care needs, if you are unsure, we always offer complimentary consults. We also have some great resources on the Blog section of our website, which help answer more common questions you may have.
Roll Tide!
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