How to manage your hair on holiday: Advice from hair expert Sarah McKenna plus the best products to use

Summer is coming and if you haven't already, then now is the time to start prepping for your holiday. After you’ve decided where and when you're going the next thing on your list will be outfits and then which beauty products you will be taking. 

When it comes to looking after your hair on holiday, finding the right products can sometimes be tricky. We all want that beautiful hair as you step out of the water, naturally drying in the sun and falling into the perfect beach wave. 

The good news is that perfect holiday can be achieved with a little help from hair expert Sarah McKenna. The founder of The London Hair Lab, Sarah gives her best advice on how to manage your hair in the sun. Whether you're on a vacation abroad or a staycation her are her best tips and must have products. 

How to manage your hair on holiday? 

Sarah explains: “Before you go on holiday, have a trim to remove any split ends and ensure your hair is in its best condition for when you go away.

“Keep it simple and embrace low-maintenance hairstyles whilst on holiday like braids, buns, and ponytails. These styles will keep your hair off your face, minimise sun exposure and keep your hair from tangling. 

“Bring travel size or decant your favourite products into travel bottles to keep up your hair care routine on holiday. This will save space in your luggage and ensure your hair looks its best throughout your trip.

“When going on holiday make sure to pack your favourite detangling brush in your travel bag to gently remove knots and tangles, especially after a day at the beach or being in the pool. I would recommend using a Tangle Teezer £8.50.

“Limit heat styling and always use heat protection spray. Embrace your hair’s natural texture or use heat-free styling like braids for an effortless look.”

What are the best hair products to use on your summer holidays? 

“Look for products that offer heat protection to shield your hair from the sun. I love the Colour Wow Style on Steroids Texturizing Spray £26.50. It helps to add texture and volume to your hair and has heat protection. 

“Use a hair oil to keep the frizz at bay and nourish your hair this Summer, I would recommend the K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil £65. Apply a small amount on the mid lengths and ends your hair to tame and add shine. It’s lightweight which is perfect during the warmer months.

“Invest in salon quality shampoos and conditioners, use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner to replenish moisture and keep your locks soft and manageable. Redken All Soft Duo £39.15 and Redken Colour Extend £39.15 are both great ranges to use to keep your hair nourished.”

Natalie Dixon is NationalWorld’s Lifestyle reporter. If you liked this article and want to read more about soaps, celebrities and lifestyle you can follow Natalie Dixon on X here. 

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