As much as we love those long, lazy summer days, all that sun can really wreak havoc on hair, leaving it frizzy and dry.
Switching up your hair care routine can help protect your locks from the sweltering summer heat – and to get the best advice on seeing your hair safely through the season, we sat down with renowned Kiwi hair and make-up artist Eithne Curran.
The beauty guru has her very own self-titled hair care range called The Eithne Curran Black Collection and has also recently launched her ‘party ready’ service offering a glammed-up hair, makeup and nail makeover just in time for the festive season.
Keep reading to see Eithne’s top tips for summer hair care and the latest trends to watch out for.

Eithne Curran has launched her own self-titled line of ethical hair care.
What are your tips for keeping hair healthy and soft during summer?
Take advantage of the balmy summer weather and let your hair air dry, and try not to get too crazy with hot tools! In summer, your hair loses a lot of moisture due to the increase in temperature, which can cause dry, fragile and frizzy locks – so ditch the hot curler tongs and wrap your hair in a bun when wet and leave to dry to achieve natural beachy curls instead.
I also recommend using an intense hydrating treatment weekly to replace lost moisture and protect your hair from the elements. My Black Collection Restore Treatment is made with a blend of natural, nourishing ingredients including jojoba oil, avocado oil and shea butter, and is perfect to slather on and let your hair soak up.
Finally, pop a stylish floppy hat on to protect your colour from fading in the sun – not to mention your face and neck from the harsh New Zealand rays.

What are some easy hairstyles to keep your hair off your face in summer?
My favourite no-fuss summer hairstyle is a classic French braid – it’s easy, stylish and practical for going from beach to bar. After washing my hair with my Black Collection Shampoo and Conditioner, I pop some coconut oil through my hair and French plait it, then just enjoy summer for the day, whether it’s swimming at the beach, boating, or going for a bush walk.
I let it air dry and then take the plait out for the evening, and put in a 1970’s head scarf or a gorgeous clip – perfect! Another great style is a loose bun on the side or low at the base of the neck with a few scattered wild flowers. It’s pretty, feminine and relaxed, ideal for summer.
Are there any changes we should be making to our hair care routine for summer?
Definitely – the humidity increases in summer and moisture is lost from the hair as a result, and the PH level changes in the air and that effects our hair too. It’s important to replenish your hair with a super hydrating product designed to replace and lock in moisture. Using a light oil treatment weekly, such as pure coconut, almond or olive oil, is also great for shine.

What are the biggest trends coming into play for this season?
For summer 2016 – 2017, I am loving a messy, modern beehive with a little Brigitte Bardot influence. I absolutely loved working with Tami Neilson recently on The Last Waltz and doing her hair, fabulously fabulous – she has the most amazing statement hairstyle, the bigger the better!
I also think we’ll see lots of middle parts with barrel curls from the mid-length to ends – use oil to smooth and fasten with a single old fashioned hair clip. We might even see the return of low sweeping fringes with a side part. And no doubt casual, voluminous, messy textured and sea salt sprayed-natural hair is the look of every summer season.
You could be in to win your own set of Black Collection hair care products from Eithne Curran, including the Shampoo, Conditioner, and Restore Treatment valued at RRP $149. To enter the draw, register your details below by December 18, 2016.