She's almost here! We're talking about summer, of course — which means you may want to worry less about your hair and more about your al-fresco plans. Summer is the perfect time to let your natural hair air-dry, but not without some essentials to keep it looking like you picture in your head (read: frizz free, shiny, soft, and manageable rizos). When it comes to the warmer months, easy does it — so before you reach for a hot tool, let chance take its course and the products below work their magic.
Olaplex No.9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum
Olaplex fans are sure to love the No.9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum [1] ($28). This multitasker is a weightless, silicone-free product that nourishes and protects from tangles, breakage, and static by blocking pollution and neutralizing free radicals. It contains Olaplex's patented bond-building technology and antioxidant-rich red algae, all of which allow hair to air-dry with a soft, shiny texture.
Redken Frizz Dismiss Smooth Force Leave-In Conditioner
"Frizz? Quien es, ella?" is what you'll be saying after using the Redken Frizz Dismiss Smooth Force Leave-In Conditioner [2] ($27). It works best when applied to clean, towel-dried hair — all it takes is a few spritzes to give your mane frizz protection and prevention.
Curlsmith Bond Curl Rehab Salve
Every masterpiece begins with a clean canvas, and the Curlsmith Bond Curl Rehab Salve [3] ($29) is your start to something beautiful. This preshampoo treatment primarily targets all three types of hair bonds to aid in restoring hair-fiber strength. Plus, it's enriched with proteins to fortify hair and make it more elastic while helping to lock in moisture. It's especially good for damaged or high-porosity hair.
Alterna Easy Does It Air Dry Balm
If there's a product that will help ease the process of air-drying your locks, it's the Alterna Easy Does It Air Dry Balm [4] ($29). It's known to reduce air-drying time, control frizz, and improve manageability. A key ingredient is vegan botanical caviar, a powerful component that adds intense hydration, improves moisture retention, and smooths the cuticle to add bounce.
IGK Rich Kid Coconut Oil Gel
For that effortless "I woke up like this" hairstyle, look to the IGK Rich Kid Coconut Oil Gel [5] ($29). It gives hair helps a lived-in, textured look that holds with zero crunchiness. It contains coconut oil — which nourishes and adds moisture — and aloe vera, which helps with hydration and texture.
Pattern Microfiber Towel
Believe it or not, your towel could affect the drying result of your curls and waves. That's why it's best to opt for a towel like the The Pattern Microfiber Towel [6] ($19), which helps absorb excess postshower water without messing with your curl pattern. This one specifically helps with curls, coilies, and tight textures.
Kristin Ess Hair Soft Shine Beach Wave Spray
If you want beach waves without actually heading to the beach, the Kristin Ess Hair Soft Shine Beach Wave Spray [7] ($15) will help you play the part. Once you've styled your natural waves, apply this spray liberally all over and watch your hair become soft and shiny to the touch.