There’s something about summer that makes me want to spend less time getting ready and more time outside—whether it’s hiking a trail, heading to the lake, or just grabbing iced coffee with friends. But that coastal mix of humidity, sun, and salt air? It does my hair zero favors. That’s why I swear by this feminine, fuss-free summer hair routine that keeps my waves soft, pretty, and practical without using heat.
This method features two of my favorite things: French pins and heatless curls. It’s gentle, chic, and super adaptable whether you’re east or west coast. I’ve built this summer hair routine to be flexible, effective, and easy for anyone wanting that clean, soft-girl glow.
Step 1: Rosemary Oil Treatment
Before washing my hair, I like to give it a nourishing soak in rosemary oil for at least an hour. This helps promote scalp health, improves shine, and preps my strands for everything that follows. It’s the perfect first step in my summer hair routine because it creates a healthy foundation.
Step 2: Glossy Wash Routine
Once I’ve let the rosemary oil sit, I jump into the shower and use the full L’Oréal Glycolic Gloss system:
- Shampoo: to cleanse while starting that soft, glossy base
- Conditioner: smooths out the mid-lengths and ends
- At-Home Gloss Treatment: seals in shine and makes my hair feel like silk
Post-shower, I use the L’Oréal Glycolic Leave-In Gloss for extra protection and glow. This part of my summer hair routine makes my hair look professionally done with zero heat.
Step 3: Unicorn Heatless Curls + Big Bang Roller
Next, I prep for overnight styling using the Unicorn heatless curl method with a silk curling rod and scrunchie. Here’s how I do it:
- Part your hair down the middle and place the silk rod on top of your head, securing it with a clip while you wrap.
- Starting near the crown, take a small front section and begin wrapping it around the rod, adding more hair as you move downward (like a French braid, but wrapping instead of braiding).
- Continue down both sides and secure the ends with silk scrunchies.
- I always sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce frizz and preserve the shape.
To add extra volume at the front, I use a big bang roller at the front of my hairline before wrapping the rest. It gives that soft, lifted curtain-bang effect when everything comes out. This heat-free method is the heart of my summer hair routine and gives me the prettiest, softest curls that actually last.
Step 4: The Morning Finish
In the morning, I gently remove the rod and scrunchies. Without using my hands too much (especially on the roots), I separate the curls with a wide-tooth comb.
Instead of using oils or creams, I spritz TRESemmé Gloss Shine Spray all over. It boosts shine and prevents me from getting oily fingers into my freshly styled hair—a lifesaver for keeping roots clean and fluffy. If I need a refresh, Dove Dry Shampoo is my go-to. It smells clean, adds volume, and extends my summer hair routine for extra days.
Step 5: Styling with French Pins
This is where the magic happens. French pins are my summer MVP. They’re easier on my scalp than tight elastics and add such a romantic vibe.
Here are my go-to styles:
- Low twist bun: Gather curls at the nape, twist loosely, and secure with a silver or tortoise French pin
- Half-up crown: Take front sections and twist them back, then secure together with a pearl-dotted pin
- Messy top knot: Great for second-day hair; twist hair up and slide two French pins in an X shape
I love using pins in silver, shell, or pearl accents to match the rest of my accessories. It’s a chic detail that elevates any summer hair routine with almost no effort.
Step 6: Revive + Refresh
On day two or three, I usually refresh with a spritz of rose water or leave-in spray. I’ll flip my head, give my roots a quick blast with Dove Dry Shampoo, and use a pin or clip to pull back the front.
Some days I’ll re-braid or even re-twist just the front pieces to blend any frizz. And honestly? A messy bun with a cute French pin always pulls it together. This part of my summer hair routine keeps things feeling fresh and styled without any heat or fuss.
Final Thoughts
This summer hair routine has seriously saved me time and stress. It’s gentle on my strands, doesn’t require heat, and leaves me feeling like my hair matches the rest of my style—feminine, natural, and a little coastal.
If you try it, tag me @coast2closet or let me know your favorite heatless hair hacks! I love seeing how you make these routines your own. Whether it’s the French pins, heatless curls, or just swapping in your favorite products, this summer hair routine is all about making your hair feel effortlessly beautiful all season long.
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