When the mercury is climbing and humidity becomes uncomfortable, we know we are in the middle of the summer season. Summertime means swimming, camping, and cookouts. But it means something else to many folks: the season of bad hair days!

What You Need To Know

  • Humidity can create issues for styled hair

  • Hair is made up of a protein called keratin

  • Hydrogen is an atom that helps to create and change bonds in your hair

  • Higher levels of moisture in the air will lead to frizzing and kinking in your hair

This is a common complaint of folks during the summer season, but did you know there is some real science behind this claim? It all comes down to what our hair is composed of and how changes to the air impact the state of our hair. 

Hair is made of a tough protein called keratin. This protein is very fibrous and is impacted by the changes of hydrogen in the air.

Hydrogen is considered the enemy of this keratin protein when it comes to a good hair day, and one very important thing we all learned in chemistry is water is two parts hydrogen and one part oxygen. So as the water content of the atmosphere goes up, your hair is under attack.

So why should we worry about hydrogen when it comes to our hairstyle? Most people do not wear their hair natural. Most style their hair using heat to keep its shape straight or curly. The process in which we style our hair sets hydrogen bonds between strands of keratin protein, keeping the shape of your hair until it becomes wet again. 

When your hair is set for the day, you have created the hydrogen and keratin bonds to get the desired look of your hair. The only way to change this style you've achieved is to add more hydrogen to the mix.

Since hair is porous, it absorbs water very efficiently. When single strands start to absorb more moisture, the hair cuticle swells and expands. As it does this, your once smooth and silky hair looks frizzy and un-styled. The achieved hydrogen bond of your morning routine is undone by the added hydrogen from the moisture in the air and your hairstyle is lost. 

You can use products sold at department stores or at your hair salon to add a layer of protection around your hair. If you can keep moisture from getting in, you have a better chance of keeping your lovely locks looking good. Another option is to expect the oncoming attack on humid days and wear your hair natural and give in to the summertime heat and humidity.