Caring for Curly Hair in Perth’s Summer: A Professional Guide
Perth’s summer is known for its blazing sun, dry heat, and strong UV exposure. While it’s a paradise for beachgoers, curly hair in Perth can suffer in these conditions without the right care.
Curls are naturally more porous and prone to dryness, frizz, and breakage, factors that are only amplified by the intense Australian climate.
Whether you’re rocking natural coils, soft waves, or tight ringlets, here’s how to keep your curls hydrated, defined, and protected all summer long.
1. Hydration Is Everything
Curly hair craves moisture, and Perth’s hot, dry air can strip it away quickly.
Tips:
- Use a sulfate-free, hydrating shampoo no more than 2–3 times a week to avoid over-drying your scalp and strands.
- Follow with a rich conditioner or light conditioner depending on your hair type, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends.
- Add a leave-in treatment such as Aveda Botanical Repair or Damage Remedy Hair Repair after washing and conditioning for extra moisture. Perfect for women with a busy lifestyle who prefer fast, effective results without the wait.
Pro Tip for Hydrating Curly Hair:
Look for ingredients like rice protein, jojoba oil, panthenol (Provitamin B5) aloe vera, shea butter. These humectants and emollients will help retain moisture even in dry heat.
2. Deep Treat Weekly
Why it matters: Perth’s strong UV levels and summer heat can cause structural damage to the hair shaft. A deep treatment helps repair and strengthen from the inside out. Regular conditioners simply close the cuticles and neutralise shampoo residue — they don’t rebuild the hair.
Nourishing your curls is all about moisture, strength, and balance, keeping them hydrated, defined, and resilient from root to tip.
Choose Deep Treatments that:
- Replenish – opt for an extra moisture charge with our in-salon Micromist Treatment at Aoki Hair Perth.
- Strengthen – with proteins like Aveda Be Curly, which uses wheat protein and aloe. Aveda Botanical Repair is another plant-powered, bond-building treatment line using a macro-green blend of avocado, green tea, and sacha inchi oils.
- Nourish – with oils such as argan, jojoba, or avocado.
3. Protect from UV Damage
Just like your skin, your hair needs protection from the Perth sun.
UV exposure can lead to:
- Faded colour (especially in dyed or highlighted hair)
- Dryness and breakage
- Loss of curl pattern definition
Solutions for protecting your Curly Hair from UV Damage:
- Wear a hat or scarf when outdoors.
- Use a UV-protectant spray such as Aveda’s Heat Relief or Suncare Heat Veil, a lightweight, water-resistant UV defence mist that protects your hair for up to 16 hours.
- Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (10 am–3 pm).
4. Limit Heat Styling
Curly hair is already prone to dryness, as natural oils from the scalp struggle to travel down the spiral strands — and Perth’s heat can make that worse.
Tips for Heat Styling Curly Hair:
- Diffuse on a low heat and airflow setting to preserve curl definition.
- Use a microfibre towel or cotton T-shirt to gently blot excess water.
- If diffusing, always apply a heat protectant like Aveda Heat Relief or Olaplex No.9.
5. Refresh Curls Between Washes
Sweat, humidity, and sleeping on curls can leave them limp or frizzy — especially during Perth’s warmer nights.
To refresh Curl between washes:
- Use a curl refresher spray like Aveda Be Curly Primer, or make your own with water and leave-in conditioner.
- Lightly mist and scrunch your curls to reactivate shape and bounce.
- Use a silk or satin bonnet to minimise friction and frizz overnight.
All Aveda products are water-soluble, so there’s usually no need to add more, though a touch of Aveda Phomolient Mousse can boost volume and hold.
6. Consider a Protective Style
If your curls are struggling in the heat, it might be time for a protective style. These help minimise manipulation and retain moisture – ideal for Perth’s long summer months.
Great summer options include:
- Braids
- Twists
- Buns
- Pineapple updos
Make sure not to pull too tight – tension can lead to breakage or scalp stress.
7. Stay Hydrated from Within
Healthy curls start from within. Perth’s dry summer climate can lead to dehydration before you know it.
Tips for staying hydrated this summer:
- Consider hair-friendly supplements if needed (consult with a healthcare provider).
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Eat foods rich in Omega-3s (like avocado and salmon) and vitamins A, C, and E.
Final Thoughts
Perth’s summer doesn’t have to be a battle for your curls. With the right care, you can keep them vibrant, defined, and healthy all season long. Prioritise hydration, minimise damage, and embrace protective habits – and your curls will thank you.
Need Personalised Advice?
If you’re struggling with specific curl challenges or product choices, consider booking a consultation with Aoki Hair – Perth’s curl specialists in Mt Pleasant. Tailored advice can make all the difference, especially in a climate as unique as ours.
Artistic Director, Aoki Hair Mt Pleasant, Perth
Jenni Spence is the Artistic Director of Aoki Hair in Mt Pleasant, Perth. With over 20 years of experience and advanced training under global curl experts, Jenni is recognised as one of Australia’s leading curly-hair specialists, dedicated to helping clients embrace their natural texture with confidence.
