Let’s face it: the last thing anyone wants to do in 85-degree weather is aim a scorching hot blow dryer at their scalp. Add in a little humidity and, and it’s clear—air-drying your hair in summer isn’t just a vibe, it’s a survival tactic.
But here’s the thing: air-drying without a plan can go one of two ways. Best case, you get effortless, tousled hair that looks like you just woke up from a beachside nap. Worst case? A frizzy, limp, crunchy, shapeless mess that makes you seriously consider a buzz cut.
That’s where the right products come in. Whether you’ve got curls that need a bit of bounce, waves that want structure, or straight strands that could use some life, there’s a product out there that will help your hair air-dry like a dream, no heat required.
So give your blow dryer some PTO, and check out the MVPs of air-dried summer hair.
1. For Waves That Actually Wave:
Ouai Wave Spray
This isn’t your typical salt spray. In fact there’s no salt at all, which makes this texture spray safe for all hair types, even colored or chemically treated hair. Formulated with coconut oil and rice protein, the Ouai Wave Spray provides hold and definition without drying out your waves or making them stiff.
2. For Frizz-Free Curls That Don’t Feel Like a Science Experiment:
Pattern Beauty Curl Gel
Lightweight but effective, this gel defines curls without making them feel like they’ve been laminated. It’s perfect for 3a-4c curls if you want hold without the crunch, and it plays nice with humidity, which, in curly world, is a big deal.
3. For a Soft, Lived-In Look (Especially for Straight Hair):
Bumble and bumble. Don't Blow It Fine (H)air Styler Air Dry Cream
This is the product straight-haired folks didn’t know they needed. It gives you bounce, body, and volume without ever needing to pick up a blow dryer. It’s also designed with UV filters that help protect against the sun, making it the perfect addition to your summer haircare routine.
4. For Taming Puff + Adding Shine:
It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In
This nourishing leave-in does a bit of everything: smooths frizz, detangles, restores shine, and protects against UV damage. With natural extracts like Vitamin C to strengthen, Linseed to soothe, Aloe Vera to lock in moisture, and Sunflower Seed to help preserve color, it’s a great all-in-one option for all hair types and seasons—especially summer, when UV protection and hydration matter most.
5. For The Curly Girlies Trying to Downsize:
Color Wow Dream Coat for Curly Hair
Tired of juggling leave-ins, curl creams, and oils? Wish your routine was way simpler? Meet your new curl essential: a one-step solution for frizz-free curls. It packs the power of gels, serums, and creams without the crunch, grease, or heaviness.
Seriously, people don’t just like this stuff. They swear by it. It's basically magic in a bottle.
6. For a Finishing Touch That’s More Glow Than Grease:
JVN Nourishing Shine Drops
Once your hair is fully dry, a drop or two of this adds mirror-level shine and smooths any frizz or fuzz without making your hair oily. It’s lightweight, silicone-free, and smells very expensive. What’s not to love?
The Air-Dry Commandments:
- Start with a good leave-in or base product. Think of it like a primer for your style.
- Hands off! Touching your hair too much while it’s drying = frizz. Let it chill.
- Diffuse if you must, but don’t overdo it. Even 5 minutes can help with shape if needed.
- Once dry, scrunch out any crunch or stiffness (aka “SOTC” in curly-speak).
- Finish with oil, serum, or dry texture spray depending on your vibe.
Some of the products featured here may contain affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are based on personal use, stylist feedback, or product performance.