Charleston Hair, Humidity, and the $300 Blowout Lie
By Franklin Everett ShawCharleston. The Holy City. A place of cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and… hair-raising humidity.
Forget that salon-perfect blowout you envisioned. In Charleston, humidity laughs in the face of perfectly coiffed hair. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it’s a daily battle against the elements, a constant struggle to maintain a semblance of style in the face of atmospheric moisture.
The problem isn’t just the humidity itself, but its relentless, pervasive nature. It seeps into every strand, transforming sleek, smooth hair into a frizzy, shapeless mess within minutes of stepping outside.
So, what’s a Charlestonian (or visitor) to do? Surrender to the frizz? Absolutely not. We’re going to explore practical, budget-friendly alternatives that embrace the Lowcountry climate, rather than fighting a losing battle against it.
First, let’s talk products. Forget heavy, oil-based serums that promise to tame frizz. They’ll just weigh your hair down and attract even more moisture. Instead, look for lightweight, water-based products specifically formulated for high humidity.
Think serums containing ingredients like dimethicone or amodimethicone. These create a barrier against moisture without feeling greasy. A great option is the John Frieda Frizz Ease Air-Dry Waves Styling Foam. It’s affordable, readily available at most drugstores in Charleston, and provides definition without stiffness.
Another key ingredient to look for is glycerin. While it can be a double-edged sword in extremely humid environments (it can actually draw moisture into the hair), in Charleston’s typical humidity levels, it helps to hydrate and smooth the hair shaft.
Now, let’s ditch the heat. Blow dryers, flat irons, and curling wands are the enemy in this climate. They create a temporary illusion of smoothness, but the humidity will quickly undo all your hard work.
Instead, embrace heat-free styling techniques. One of the easiest and most effective is the “plopping” method. After washing your hair, apply your styling products (like the John Frieda foam mentioned earlier). Then, flip your hair over and gently “plop” it into a microfiber towel or t-shirt.
Wrap the towel around your head and leave it for 20-30 minutes, or even overnight. This helps to encourage curl definition and reduce frizz as your hair dries.
Another great option is braiding. Braids are a protective style that keeps your hair contained and minimizes exposure to humidity. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. You can do a simple three-strand braid, a French braid, a Dutch braid, or even a fishtail braid.
For a more polished look, try a braided crown. This involves braiding your hair around your head, creating a beautiful and elegant updo. It’s perfect for special occasions or just for keeping your hair out of your face on a hot day.
Protective hairstyles are particularly popular in Charleston, especially among the African American community. These styles, such as braids, twists, and cornrows, not only protect the hair from the elements but also celebrate cultural heritage.
Box braids, for example, are a classic protective style that can last for several weeks. They’re a great option for those who want to minimize styling time and protect their hair from damage.
Another popular protective style is Senegalese twists. These are similar to braids, but they’re created by wrapping strands of hair around each other, creating a rope-like texture.
Cornrows are another versatile option. They can be styled in a variety of patterns and designs, and they’re a great way to keep your hair neat and tidy.
The key to success with protective styles is to keep your scalp clean and moisturized. Use a lightweight oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil, to hydrate your scalp and prevent dryness.
A common mistake developers make when dealing with Charleston humidity is over-washing their hair. Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, making it even more susceptible to frizz.
Try to wash your hair only two or three times a week. On the days you don’t wash your hair, use a dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and refresh your roots.
Another pitfall is using the wrong type of shampoo and conditioner. Look for products that are sulfate-free and moisturizing. Sulfates can be harsh and drying, which can exacerbate frizz.
Finally, remember that embracing your natural hair texture is key. Trying to force your hair to be something it’s not will only lead to frustration and disappointment.
Charleston’s humidity is a force to be reckoned with, but it doesn’t have to dictate your hairstyle. By choosing the right products, embracing heat-free styling techniques, and protecting your hair with braids and twists, you can achieve effortlessly chic hair, no matter the weather.
Ditch the unrealistic expectations of a lasting, expensive blowout and embrace the beauty of your natural hair. Charleston is a city of charm and character, and your hair can be too.