Summer is a tough season for hair, skin, and health and wellness in general. With strong sun rays, dust, and rising temperatures, it is crucial to take extra care and precautions. While summer promotes hair growth and is a good season for those aspiring to grow long hair, one must also be aware of the side effects summer can have on hair. In summer, hair tends to dry out, leading to frizzy strands, an itchy scalp, and constant hair curls.

This is a common scenario for most people, and the first response is often to reach for off-the-shelf products. Most commonly used hair care products contain harmful chemicals like sulphates, parabens, fragrance dyes, and alcohol. However, many people are rediscovering the benefits of using natural, chemical-free, and plant-based products to restore hair health gently and effectively, and they are also incorporating homoeopathy into their routines, with input from Dr. Akshay Batra, Trichologist and Managing Director, Dr Batra’s Healthcare, Ex-President, Trichology Society of London.

WHAT HAPPENS TO HAIR IN SUMMER?

During summer, the scalp produces more oil and sweat, with dust, pollution, and prolonged sun exposure that results in scalp buildup, clogged follicles, dandruff, and even fungal infections. UV rays break down hair proteins (like keratin), making hair brittle and prone to breakage. Many also experience a rise in seasonal hair loss due to dehydration and stress on the roots. Let’s look at the solutions that nature has, which have been trusted for generations.

NATURAL REMEDIES THAT TRULY WORK

The best part about natural ingredients is that they are safe, side-effect-free, and work with the body rather than against it. Here’s a closer look at some of the most effective traditional summer haircare ingredients and how to use them effectively.

1. Aloe vera – The ultimate soother

• Why it works: Aloe is cooling, hydrating, and rich in vitamins that strengthen hair.
• How to use: Scoop out fresh aloe gel, apply it directly to the scalp, and leave it for 30–45 minutes. It reduces itchiness, soothes sun-exposed scalps, and promotes hair growth.
• For better results, mix with a few drops of tea tree oil to fight dandruff.

2. Yogurt + honey mask – natural conditioner

• Why it works: Yogurt is rich in protein and lactic acid; honey locks in moisture and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• How to use: Mix 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt with 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply to the scalp and hair length. Leave for 20–30 minutes before rinsing with cool water. This remedy is perfect for frizzy, dull, or sun-damaged hair.

3. Cucumber juice – Cool relief for the scalp

• Why it works: Cucumber cools the scalp and helps reduce oiliness, especially helpful in humid climates.
• How to use: Extract cucumber juice and mix it with aloe vera. Apply it as a hair rinse or light scalp tonic to reduce inflammation and soothe heat rashes on the scalp.

4. Fenugreek (methi) seeds – Ancient strengthener

• Why it works: Fenugreek is known to strengthen roots, reduce dandruff, and add volume.
• How to use: Soak 2 tablespoons of seeds overnight, grind into a paste, and apply to the scalp. Leave for 30 minutes and rinse with cool water. Add a bit of yogurt for added cooling and conditioning.

5. Neem – Nature’s antifungal agent

• Why it works: Neem is powerful against dandruff and scalp infections, common in sweaty summer months.
• How to use: Boil neem leaves in water, let it cool, and use as a final rinse after washing hair.

KEY TIPS FOR SUMMER HAIR CARE

Natural ingredients offer a gentler and more sustainable alternative. Oils like jojoba, brahmi, sesame, coconut, olive, and amla have long been used to nourish the scalp, strengthen roots, and restore hair texture, while herbal extracts such as tulsi and argan oil support root health and moisture retention. In shampoos, soothing elements like henna, aloe vera, and tea tree oil help cleanse without stripping natural oils, and ingredients like niacinamide improve scalp health and boost volume.

For those struggling with dandruff, which is a common summer concern, natural actives like Ziziphus Jaozeiro extract and tea tree oil offer relief while maintaining balance. Alongside these, homoeopathy brings a unique internal approach to treating root causes—be it stress, hormonal shifts, or digestive imbalances.

Remedies like Natrum Muriaticum, Silicea, Lycopodium, and Fluoric Acid are prescribed based on individual needs and have shown effectiveness without side effects. When combined with mindful habits like staying hydrated with plenty of fluids like coconut water, protecting hair from harsh sunlight, and avoiding excessive heat styling, this natural and homoeopathic routine provides a thoughtful, long-term way to support healthy, resilient hair through the summer and beyond.