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Let’s talk truth: while the summer sun has us glowing, serving looks, and showing up for every rooftop party, our scalp is sweating, stressed, and sometimes silently suffering under all those gorgeous protective styles.

From knotless braids and faux locs to wigs and sew-ins, protective styles are meant to give our strands a break—but what about our scalp?

As someone who has spent over a decade in the beauty industry and now serves as the Educational Director of the Black Beauty Expo, I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the flaky when it comes to summer styling. Protective styles can be both a blessing and a barrier—protecting your strands while, if not properly managed, blocking your scalp from breathing.

So how do we stay slayed and healthy under the summer sun?

1. Start with a Clean Slate

Before any style goes in, the scalp must be clean. Think of it like laying a foundation—you wouldn’t paint over dust, so don’t install a style over buildup. Use a clarifying shampoo or a scalp detox to remove product residue and oils. Follow it up with a lightweight conditioner or scalp tonic to nourish the skin underneath.

2. Hydration Is Still the Real Flex

Just because your hair is tucked away doesn’t mean your scalp should be dry. The heat pulls moisture from the scalp just as much as it does from the skin. Use a water-based scalp mist or leave-in refresher with ingredients like aloe, peppermint, or tea tree to cool and hydrate. Avoid heavy oils that clog follicles—lightweight oils like jojoba or grapeseed do the trick without suffocating the scalp.

3. Scalp Access = Scalp Success

Styles that are too tight or too dense can lead to inflammation, bumps, and eventually, traction alopecia. Protective should not mean painful. Talk to your stylist about creating clean parting and breathable spacing. Don’t be afraid to gently open up your style and give your scalp a quick wipe-down with astringent pads or a diluted witch hazel mix a few times a week.

4. Night Care Still Matters

It’s hot outside, but bonnets and satin scarves are still essential. The scalp can dry out overnight due to fans or air conditioning. Wearing satin-lined wraps or using a satin pillowcase helps retain moisture and prevents breakage or irritation from cotton friction.

5. Know When It’s Time to Let Go

I know, I know—you want to stretch those knotless braids just one more week. But holding onto a style too long can lead to matting, mildew smells, and scalp stress. Your scalp will tell you when it’s time. Listen to the itch, the flake, or the tightness. 4-6 weeks is the sweet spot for most protective styles in the summer.

Final Thoughts from the Chair

Remember: your scalp is skin, and it deserves the same care you give your edges, your style, and your selfies. This summer, don’t just be cute—be consciously cared for underneath it all.

Healthy hair starts at the scalp, and scalp health starts with you.

Stay fly, stay fresh, and stay focused on that foundation. Because under every crown is a queen who takes care of her roots.

Contributing Writer | Beauty Pro: Shakira V. Clark