How do I protect my hair during a long trip?

"Nothing excites me more than planning a trip. Thinking about the destination, imagining the outfits... But if there's one thing that always requires 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 sport beautiful hair, and that's not always easy when the sun, wind, sea, or changes in weather come into play.

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

Hair is more delicate than we think. Between solar radiation that oxidizes the fiber, sea water or chlorine from pools, and humidity changes, it's easy for it to end up dry, frizzy, or dull. And while we usually plan every detail of our luggage, we often forget that our hair also needs its own travel strategy.

Most common hair problems during a trip

• Frizz, especially in humid climates.
• Dryness and stiffness in mid-lengths and ends, caused by sudden temperature changes.
• Color loss due to excessive solar radiation or minerals dissolved in water, especially in colored hair.
• More sensitive or irritated scalp, either due to sweat or leaving grease or product residue accumulated in the hair for too many days.
  

Tips to protect your hair on long journeys

• Prepare your hair before the trip. Before a long flight, applying a nourishing oil and tying your hair in a low bun or loose braid helps preserve hydration and minimize frizz, while opting for soft hairstyles prevents breakage caused by friction with the seat.
• Protect yourself from the sun, not only 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 hairstyles to avoid rubbing against surfaces in transport, such as airplanes or trains, whose seats are often made of materials that can dehydrate hair or may not be as clean as we'd like.
• Simplify your routine and leave heat styling tools at home. Embrace your hair's natural texture. Talk to your hairdresser and ask them to show you hairstyles that suit you and are easy to do.
• Use multi-functional products, such as light oils that hydrate and add shine, or masks that you can also use as a styling cream.
• Always carry a hydrating spray to control frizz. It's a must-have, just like sun powder.

What hair products to pack in your travel toiletry bag

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

1. Solid shampoo. A basic for my trips, especially in summer. I always tell my clients that, at least once in their life, they should try a solid shampoo: it's surprising and accompanies you perfectly on any trip. Plus, it can also be used for the body.
2. Conditioner or multi-purpose mask. Ideal for use as a pre-shampoo after washing and as a styling cream.
3. Leave-in hydrating spray. A premium cosmetic product that acidifies the fiber, keeping it more protected and providing softness, shine, and protection wherever you are.
4. Light oil for ends. Perfect for sealing ends and adding shine without weighing hair down.
5. 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 disappoints.

Your perfect hair routine for vacations

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

During the trip, protect it from the sun and tie your hair up to avoid rubbing against clothes or bags.

Wash gently and apply a mask after swimming in the sea or pool. Look for one that doesn't make hair greasy or reduce volume: it will help you maintain your preferred hairstyle better.

Forget about flat irons and hair dryers: let your hair breathe. Get inspired on Instagram and look for natural hairstyles that complement your face. There's no age to feel beautiful.

How to care for your hair after returning from a trip

When I return, I like to do a little reset:

• Deep cleansing, yet gentle, with H07 Sea Salt Shampoo to reset the scalp and hair.
• A restorative treatment, like H02 Restorative Shampoo with postbiotics and ceramides, for special care.
• Nourishing and protective treatments with H10 Sublime Oil.
• And a trim if I notice my hair is more fragile. A trim provides uniformity to the length and gives the ends a denser feel.
  

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

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