Stories Feature
SWEAT SESH & REFRESH 

Keep cool while you work out this summer.

Image/ Ons Jabeur photographed by Brooke Shanesy for Glamour Magzine.

By Tara Young

That post-workout rush of endorphins coupled with a natural glow no amount of serum could replicate is addictive. As for that hot mess up top? SOS.

It's not like we're going to run a roll-on around our hairline on a really hot day or before we work out. What can we do about it?

The scalp, like other areas of the skin, has sweat glands that can produce sweat. The increased blood flow to the skin contributes to the scalp getting hot and sweaty, especially when under a blanket of hair. While sweating is a natural and essential mechanism for regulating body temperature, it's less than ideal when your workout doesn't align with wash day.

Even if you're equipped with hair dryers and hot tools, a full glow-up is not often feasible when you:
A) Can't be bothered
B) Washed your hair yesterday and don't want to wash it again today or
C) Are already running late

These are our top choices for a post-workout refresh when you have to get somewhere in a hurry.

WORKOUT THEN RESET

Restorative Yoga Bliss

Feeling focused and relaxed after a full-body stretch? Revitalize your hair and skin with the sweet-scented Basil Yarrow Mist by Noto, a refreshing toning mist that moisturises and hydrates. For layers of grounding, combine with palo santo scented Rooted Oil. With a base of argan oil, it dually acts as a nourishing body + hair scenting oil in a handy roll-on bottle. The perfect duo for your gym bag.

Happiness high after HIITT

If a high-intensity sweat sesh is your thing, keep your hair back and your heart rate up. Post-workout, refresh with The Wash by Noto. A natural all-in-one wash from head to toe (yes that includes your hair); containing Corriander, Aloe, Black Pepper, Bergamot and Cedar Wood it cleans, calms, reduces inflammation, increases circulation, and has anti-bacterial properties. If you're not washing your hair, Death Valley Dry Shampoo by R+Co is the quickest way to revamp your hair with volume and texture.

Tip: Applying dry shampoo prior to your workout can help to keep your scalp dry and sweat-free

Jog on

Whether you're running around the block or down the beach, working up a sweat is an instant mood boost. After you're done, soak it up with Fresh Hair by Kevin Murphy to instantly freshen, deodorise and transform your hair back to fresh. Use your trusty Pocket Hairbrush by Mason Pearson to distribute the product and make your hair silky smooth.

Reformer flow glow

If the focus is on flexibility, strength and stamina a low-impact Pilates workout will still have you breaking a sweat. Don't miss that brunch afterwards, a spritz of Cote D'Azur by Oribe will refresh and lightly scent hair while neutralising odours. As for your skin? Antioxidant-packed Hydra Mist by Grown Alchemist will soothe, hydrate and brighten your complexion. Our fave mist for a pick-me-up.

Team sport tête-à-tête

Refresh before the debrief. If your hair has seen better days, absorb that excess oil and restore body and bounce with Water Killer by Evo, a two-in-one dry shampoo and styling spray that smells great. Wait a couple of mins and distribute the product using Chloe Zara's Everyday Comb, a haircare essential.

HOW DOES SWEAT AFFECT MY SCALP AND HAIR?

Sweat itself is 99% water and 1% salt and fat. The way it affects your hair can depend on various factors.

Hydration and Hair Health:
Sweating helps regulate body temperature, but dehydration can impact the overall health of your hair. When you're dehydrated, your body may prioritize supplying water to vital organs over hair follicles, potentially leading to dry and brittle hair.

Moisture Absorption:
Hair is porous and can absorb moisture, including sweat. This can make your hair feel damp and, for some people, may lead to frizz.

Buildup:
Sweat contains salt (sodium chloride), and if allowed to dry on your hair, it can contribute to a buildup. This can make the hair feel a bit ick and may cause tangles.

Scalp Health:
Sweat on the scalp can mix with natural oils produced by the scalp and contribute to a greasy or oily appearance. This can vary and may be influenced by hair type, overall health, and hygiene practices.

To minimize the impact of sweat on your hair, stay hydrated, tie or plait your hair back and if you're hair is super sweaty, give it a wash to prevent odour or salt buildup.

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