Hair Stylists Warn: These Holiday Hair Habits Are Wrecking Your Hair

Fresha stylists reveal the most common mistakes – and how to keep your hair healthy while travelling

Whether you’re heading to the coast or a city break, your hair is more vulnerable on holiday than most people realise. From chlorine damage to over-washing, stylists across the Fresha network are seeing more clients return from trips with dry, brittle, or discoloured hair, often without realising what caused it.

Fresha, the world’s leading beauty and wellness marketplace, has gathered insight from hair professionals across its platform to share the simple steps that make the biggest difference while travelling.

“People remember to bring SPF for their skin, but forget their hair needs protection too,” said a professional stylist and spokesperson for Fresha.

“Sun, saltwater, chlorine and even hard water in hotel showers can all strip your hair of moisture and colour. The good news is,most of it’s preventable with a few small changes.”

Top holiday hair mistakes, according to Fresha stylists:
Not rinsing after the pool or sea

Saltwater and chlorine cling to the hair and continue to dry it out long after you leave the water.

What to do: Always rinse your hair with fresh water after swimming, even if you’re not washing it properly until later.

Over-washing

Frequent washing strips the scalp’s natural oils, especially if you’re shampooing twice a day.

What to do: Use a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo and avoid washing daily unless your scalp needs it.

Skipping heat protection

Hot holiday weather, sun exposure and frequent styling all weaken the hair cuticle.

What to do: Use leave-in protection sprays, especially before blow-drying, sunbathing or using hot tools over 200 degrees.

Ignoring the water quality

Many destinations have hard water, which can cause dryness or build-up.

What to do: Clarifying shampoos or deep moisturising masks can help reset the hair after your trip.

Tight hairstyles while hair is wet

Pulling wet hair into buns or braids increases the risk of breakage.

What to do: Let hair dry naturally before styling, or use a soft tie to minimise tension.

“We see a huge spike in clients booking deep conditioning treatments or colour corrections after their holidays,” added A senior stylist from one of Fresha’s top-rated UK salons.

“But most of the damage could be avoided with a decent leave-in conditioner, a wide-tooth comb, and five minutes of care after a swim.”

Fresha’s expert tips for healthy holiday hair:
Rinse your hair with clean water after swimming

Use SPF sprays or leave-in conditioner to shield against sun and dryness

Avoid heat styling where possible, and always use a heat protectant

Pack a silk scrunchie or hair wrap to reduce friction and frizz overnight

Book a trim before you travel to reduce split ends and prevent further damage