How to Keep Your Hair Healthy While Traveling

Jetting off on a well-deserved vacation? Whether you’re headed to a sun-drenched beach, a snowy mountain retreat, or a bustling city escape, your hair needs just as much preparation and care as your wardrobe and skincare routine. Travel can expose your hair to different climates, water types, and environmental stressors—so it’s important to plan ahead. Here’s how to keep your hair looking fabulous and feeling healthy while you’re away.

1. Hydration Is Key

Sun, saltwater, and chlorine are some of the biggest culprits behind dry, brittle hair. Before your trip, treat your hair to a deep conditioning mask to lock in moisture. While you’re traveling, pack a travel-sized leave-in conditioner or hair oil to apply daily. These products create a protective barrier and help retain moisture in dry or humid climates.

Ask your stylist which is best for you, or shop our bestselling Elixir and Marula and Hemp Oil!

2. Protect Your Hair from the Elements

If you’re spending a lot of time in the sun, think of your hair like your skin—it needs protection. A wide-brimmed hat or a stylish scarf not only elevates your vacation look but also shields your strands from UV damage. UV protection sprays designed for hair are also a smart addition to your beach bag, especially if you have color-treated or highlighted hair. Check out ours packed with many other benefits: Elixir 11 !

3. Limit Heat Styling

Vacations are all about embracing effortless beauty. Give your hot tools a break and go for heat-free styles like braids, buns, or natural waves. If you can’t skip the blow dryer or flat iron, be sure to use a heat protectant spray (Brilliance). Better yet, look into heatless styling tools you can use overnight—your future self will thank you!

4. Rinse After Swimming

Chlorine and saltwater can be harsh on hair, stripping it of natural oils and leaving it dry and tangled. Always rinse your hair with fresh water after a swim, even if you don’t have time for a full wash. This simple step can help prevent damage and buildup. For added protection, wet your hair with clean water and apply conditioner or Elixir 11 before swimming—this helps reduce how much salt or chlorine your hair absorbs.

5. Choose Travel-Friendly Products

Airports and packing restrictions don’t mean you have to compromise on your hair care. Many professional hair brands offer travel-sized shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. Look for sulfate-free formulas that are gentle on both natural and color-treated hair. If you’ll be in a location with hard water, consider packing a clarifying shampoo to use once a week to prevent buildup.

6. Schedule a Post-Trip Refresh

Once you return home, book an appointment at the salon for a trim or a conditioning treatment. This helps remove any damaged ends and gives your hair a fresh start. If you’ve spent time in the sun or swimming pools, a detox treatment can also help restore your hair’s natural balance.

Your vacation should be a time to relax and unwind—not stress over your hair. With a little prep and the right products, you can enjoy gorgeous, healthy hair wherever you go. Need personalized advice or vacation-ready products? Stop by Salon Evolve and let our stylists help you plan the perfect hair care routine for your getaway!

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