Summer Scalp Care: 5 Healthy Habits for Stronger Hair All Season Long

Summer is one of my favorite seasons. Seriously, we have veryyyyy long dreary winters here in North Idaho with about 9 months of cold and 3 months of warm. So I slither onto a warm sunny rock like a lizard and get as much sun as I possibly can.

Beach days, sunshine, lake trips, vacations, and time outside with my family make July something I look forward to every year.

But while we remember sunscreen for our skin, we often forget that our scalp is skin, too.

During the summer, your scalp is exposed to more sweat, UV rays, chlorine, salt water, sunscreen, hats, and product buildup than almost any other time of year. If you've noticed your scalp feeling itchier, oilier, or more irritated during the warmer months, you're not imagining it.

Here are five simple habits I prioritize every summer to keep my scalp healthy.

1. Wash your scalp consistently

There's a common belief that washing less is always better for your hair.

The truth is, summer is different.

Sweat, oil, sunscreen, and swimming can build up quickly on your scalp. Cleansing your scalp regularly helps remove that buildup and creates a healthier environment for your hair follicles.

For many people, washing at least twice a week during the summer is a great place to start. If you're exercising frequently or spending lots of time in the water, you may find your scalp benefits from washing more often.

2. Use dry shampoo strategically

Dry shampoo isn't meant to replace washing your hair.

Instead, think of it as a tool that helps extend the freshness of your style between wash days.

One of my favorite tricks is applying a small amount before my hair becomes oily—especially before outdoor events, workouts, or beach days. Using a light amount early often works better than trying to absorb several days of excess oil all at once.

3. Don't skip scalp massage

Scalp massage feels relaxing, but it also encourages you to spend a little extra time caring for your scalp.

Whether you use your fingertips or a silicone scalp massager, a few minutes during your shower can help loosen buildup, distribute natural oils, and make your wash routine feel a little more intentional.

4. Soothe your scalp after long days outside

Hours in the sun, chlorine, or salt water can leave your scalp feeling dry and uncomfortable.

After those extra-long summer days, I like to nourish my scalp before my next wash with a soothing pre-wash treatment. Giving your scalp a chance to recover is just another way of caring for the foundation healthy hair grows from.

5. Stay consistent with your scalp routine

Healthy hair doesn't come from one perfect product or one perfect day.

It comes from consistent habits over time.

That's why I continue using my scalp-first routine throughout the summer, even when life gets busy. Small habits repeated week after week often make the biggest difference.

Healthy Hair Starts at the Root

At Erin & Mae Co., we believe healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp.

Every product we create is designed with that philosophy in mind because your scalp is where healthy hair begins.

Whether you're spending your summer at the beach, by the pool, hiking, or simply enjoying longer days outside, don't forget to care for the skin beneath your hair.

Your future hair will thank you.