As temperatures are heating up I find myself dreading my typical post shower date with my blow dryer. Between the scorching sun and the lack of cool air in my bathroom, I find that with every strand of hair I dry, a drop of perspiration forms. Bottom line: it is time for my blow dryer to take its annual summer vacation.

With temperatures this hot there is no reason anyone should be using a blow dryer. Although I must admit I love the smooth polished look of a good blown out hairstyle, I love staying cooler even more. So what’s the solution? The ever sexy look of tousled beach waves. It’s simple, it’s easy, and best yet, it’s blow dryer free!

With a few simple products and tools you’ll be on your way to sexy summer hair in no time. Just follow these few simple steps. First off, when you get out of the shower dry your hair off with a clean white t-shirt (using a t-shirt over a towel will minimize frizz). Next, comb through your hair with your fingers to get your strands ready. Using a lightweight gel (think Ouidad Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel), scrunch your hair in several small sections. Just let your hair dry and you’re ready to go. Want to speed up the process? Catch up on some reading outside to dry your locks with the sun (WARNING: if you’re like me you may only last about 5 minutes). After your hair dries, use a texturizing spray. Twirl some strands around with your fingers and you’re ready for your summer day.

 Some extra tips for the Cat5 chicks with curly hair:

Tip 1. For those of you out there with curlier hair like me, you’ll find that it is hard to part your hair when you have curls going every which way. Here’s my simple solution. Part your hair like you would normally and then blow dry JUST your part. It will take about 3 minutes, but it will save you from having to straighten out the top part of your hair.

Tip 2. Bring your texturizing spray with you to the pool, beach, river, etc. Remember this spray is meant to be used on dry hair. So, after a quick dip in the water, but before you head to lunch, simultaneously mist and tousle you’ll locks and you’ll be ready for that summer cocktail.

Products to LOVE (pictured above from left to right):

1. Texturizing Spray: Alterna Summer Hair Ocean Waves Texturizing Spray 6 oz- $22, Sold at Sephora
2. The BEST scrunching formula: Ouidad Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel 2.5 oz- $9, Sold at Sephora

~Terry Hoyne, Cat5 writer covering all things beauty.~