It’s absolutely boiling out there! The sun beats down relentlessly, and the humidity makes everything feel sticky and uncomfortable. Is there anything you can do to stay more comfortable? Yes—easier than slathering on sunscreen or hiding indoors—you just have to style your hair right!

Some hairstyles don’t mesh well with summer heat, like heavy layers that cling to your sweaty neck or thick bangs that trap heat against your forehead. But others are perfect for keeping cool. These nine hairstyles for hot, humid weather will keep you looking fabulous while helping you beat the heat.

High Ponytail

The classic high ponytail remains undefeated when temperatures soar. This timeless style pulls all your hair up and away from your neck and shoulders, creating maximum airflow around those areas where you tend to get the sweatiest. The higher you position the ponytail, the better the cooling effect.

To achieve this look, brush your hair straight up and secure it with a strong elastic at the crown of your head. For extra polish, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it. This style works beautifully on all hair lengths and textures, from pin-straight locks to naturally curly hair.

Messy Bun

Sometimes, you need a hairstyle that looks effortlessly chic while keeping every strand off your neck. The messy bun delivers exactly that. This relaxed updo captures that “I woke up like this” vibe while providing serious cooling power.

Start by gathering your hair into a loose ponytail, then twist the length and wrap it around the base. Secure with bobby pins, but don’t worry about perfection—the messier, the better! Pull out a few face-framing pieces if you want a softer look. This style works particularly well on second-day hair when your strands have a bit more texture and grip.

Classic French Braid

French braids offer both style and function during sweltering summer months. This technique weaves your hair close to your scalp, keeping everything secure and off your neck while looking incredibly polished. The braid prevents hair from getting tangled in beach winds or pool water.

Begin at your hairline by taking three small sections and braiding while gradually incorporating more hair from each side. Continue down to the nape of your neck and finish with a regular braid. This style holds up beautifully through swimming, exercising, or long days outdoors. Plus, when you take it out later, you’ll have gorgeous crimped waves as a bonus!

Dutch Braids (Boxer Braids)

Dutch braids, often called boxer braids, take the cooling power of braids to the next level. These inside-out braids sit on top of your head rather than sinking into it, creating even more airflow against your scalp. Two Dutch braids running from your hairline to the nape of your neck look athletic and trendy.

The technique involves crossing hair sections under instead of over, creating that raised effect. These braids work exceptionally well for active summer days—think hiking, beach volleyball, or outdoor festivals. They stay put through intense physical activity and look amazing in photos.

Half-Up, Half-Down With a Twist

When you can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down, this hybrid style offers the best of both worlds. The half-up, half-down with a twist keeps the top section of hair away from your face while letting the bottom half flow freely, creating airflow around your neck and ears.

Take the front sections of your hair from each side and twist them back, securing with bobby pins or a small elastic at the back of your head. You can make the twists loose and romantic or tight and sleek, depending on your mood. This style works beautifully with both straight and wavy hair, and you can dress it up with cute hair accessories or keep it simple for everyday wear.

Space Buns

Space buns bring a playful, festival-ready vibe to your summer hair routine. This style involves creating two buns positioned high on either side of your head, keeping the majority of your hair up and away from your neck and shoulders.

Part your hair down the middle and create two high pigtails. Twist each ponytail and wrap it around its base, securing with bobby pins. You can make them sleek and perfect or deliberately messy and textured. Space buns work particularly well with colorful hair ties or fun accessories like scrunchies or ribbon. This youthful style pairs perfectly with summer festivals, pool parties, or any time you want to add some whimsy to your look.

Low Bun With Face-Framing Pieces

For a more sophisticated take on summer updos, try a low bun with strategically placed face-framing pieces. This elegant style keeps your hair off your neck while maintaining a polished, put-together appearance that works for both casual and formal summer events.

Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a low bun, securing with bobby pins. Before creating the bun, pull out a few pieces around your face to soften the look. You can leave these pieces straight or curl them slightly for added texture. This style photographs beautifully and holds up well in humid conditions, making it perfect for summer weddings or special occasions.

Side-Swept Pixie

Short hair automatically provides cooling benefits, and a side-swept pixie cut maximizes those advantages while looking incredibly chic. This cut keeps hair off your neck entirely.

The side-swept pixie involves longer pieces on top that you can style to one side, with shorter, tapered sides and back. This cut works well with various hair textures and face shapes. Style it with a lightweight texturizing product to add definition without weighing down your hair. The best part is this cut dries quickly and requires minimal styling time, perfect for busy summer mornings.

Braided Crown

The braided crown creates a regal, bohemian look while keeping all your hair elegantly contained. This style involves creating a braid that wraps around your head like a crown, with the rest of your hair either braided or twisted into a low bun.

Start with a side part and begin braiding along your hairline, incorporating hair as you work your way around your head. When you reach the starting point, secure the end and tuck it under the braid. This intricate-looking style actually stays put remarkably well and provides excellent heat relief by keeping all hair away from your neck and shoulders.

Stay Cool and Stylish All Summer Long

Don’t let summer heat keep you from enjoying the sun or looking your best. These hairstyles for hot, humid weather prove you can stay cool and stylish, even on the most sweltering days. From elegant updos to playful braids, there’s a heat-beating look for every occasion and hair type.

To get your summer hair just right, drop by IT Hair Products, where we have everything you need to create and maintain these styles. Our lightweight hair sprays provide strong hold without being sticky or heavy, so you can keep your hair in place without feeling weighed down. Get out there and enjoy the summer sun without worrying about your hair sticking, frizzing, or falling flat.