How do I protect my hair during a long trip?

"Nothing excites me as much as planning a trip. Thinking about the destination, imagining the outfits... But if there's one thing that always needs extra planning, it's hair care... maybe because it's what I do for a living. :)" Modesta

We want to enjoy every moment, but also have beautiful hair, and that isn't always easy when sun, wind, sea or changes in climate come into play.

Why it's important to care for your hair when travelling

Hair is more delicate than we think. Between sunlight oxidizing the fibre, sea water or chlorine in swimming pools and changes in humidity, it can easily end up dry, frizzy or dull. And although we usually plan every detail of our suitcase, we often forget that our hair needs its own travel strategy too.

The most common hair problems when travelling

• Frizz, especially in humid climates.
• Dryness and stiffness in the mid-lengths and ends, caused by sudden changes in temperature.
• Colour fading from too much sun or minerals dissolved in the water, especially in coloured hair.
• A more sensitive or irritated scalp, whether from sweat or from leaving oil or product build-up in the hair for longer.
  

Tips to protect your hair on long journeys

• Prepare your hair before you travel. Before a long flight, applying a nourishing oil and putting your hair up in a low bun or loose plait helps preserve hydration and minimize frizz, while choosing soft styles prevents breakage caused by friction against the seat.
• Protect yourself from the sun, not just with hats but also with antioxidant sprays and UV filters if you're going to spend many hours exposed without physical protection.
• Opt for updos or soft styles to avoid rubbing against surfaces when travelling by plane or train, as the seats are often made of materials that can dehydrate your hair or may not be as clean as we'd like.
• Simplify your routine and leave your heat tools at home. Make the most of your hair's natural texture. Talk to your hairdresser and ask them to show you styles that suit you and are easy to do.
• Use multi-purpose products, such as light oils that hydrate and add shine, or masks you can also use as a styling cream.
• Always keep a moisturizing spray to hand to control frizz. It's a must-have, just like bronzing powder.

Which hair products to pack in your travel bag

"My toiletry bag is never without multi-purpose products. Solid and multi-purpose formats are perfect allies for travelling light." Modesta

1. Solid shampoo. A staple on my trips, especially in summer. I always tell my clients that everyone should try a solid shampoo at least once in their life: it's a pleasant surprise and the perfect travel companion. It can also be used on the body.
2. Conditioner or multi-purpose mask. Ideal as a pre-shampoo treatment, after washing and as a styling cream.
3. Leave-in moisturizing spray. A premium cosmetic that acidifies the fibre, keeping it better protected and providing softness, shine and protection wherever you are.
4. Light oil for the ends. Perfect for sealing the ends and adding shine without weighing hair down.
5. A small brush or wide-tooth comb. The Fingerbrush On the Go, for example. An airline or a train might let you down..., but a good brush never does.

Your perfect holiday hair routine

Before you travel, nourish your hair well. And if it's a long trip and your ends are damaged, don't hesitate to have a little trim: not doing so can make the problem even worse.

While you're away, protect it from the sun and tie your hair up to avoid friction with clothes or bags.

Wash gently and apply a mask after swimming in the sea or a pool. Look for one that doesn't make hair greasy or flatten it: it will help you keep the style you love for longer.

Forget about straighteners and hairdryers: let your hair breathe. Get inspired on Instagram and look for natural styles that flatter your face. There's no age limit on feeling beautiful.

How to care for your hair when you get back

When I get back, I like to do a little reset:

• A deep yet gentle cleanse with H07 Sea Salt Shampoo to reset the scalp and hair.
• A repairing treatment, such as H02 Repairing Shampoo with postbiotics and ceramides, for some extra care.
• Nourishing and protective treatments with H10 Sublime Oil.
• And a trim if my hair feels more fragile. A trim evens out the lengths and makes the ends look denser.
  

Because travelling is a pleasure..., and caring for your hair should be too!

Every article is backed by the expertise of our founder and CEO Dr Modesta Cassinello, Doctor of Pharmacy with a Diploma in Nutrition, committed to excellence in skin and hair care.