When the heat kicks in, it’s tempting to make a drastic change—chop it all off, go super layered, or try that edgy crop you saved on your phone months ago. But not every summer haircut holds up well in real-life heat, humidity, or the chaos of beach days and sweaty errands.
Some styles sound great in theory but end up sticking to your neck, frizzing out by noon, or needing more maintenance than you bargained for. If you’re after something that actually works with the summer weather instead of against it, these 10 cuts might be worth skipping—and these 10 smarter options will keep you cooler, more comfortable, and still looking pulled together.
Avoid: Long Layers
Long layers might seem elegant, but they can leave you sweating in the summer heat. The length keeps the neck covered, trapping warmth. Consider the maintenance, too – frequent styling to keep it looking fresh can become a chore.
When the temperature rises, long layers can feel more like a winter scarf than a summer style. It’s not just about the feel; the look can also appear weighed down and lifeless in high humidity.
Think twice before opting for long layers this summer. A lighter style might be more practical and comfortable.
Better: Pixie Cut
The pixie cut is the epitome of cool and convenience. Its short length keeps the neck free, allowing breezes to keep you comfortable. With minimal upkeep, you can focus more on summer fun and less on styling.
This haircut exudes confidence and chic simplicity, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a bold change. The versatility in styling means it can be playful or polished as desired.
Embrace the ease and flair of a pixie cut this summer, providing the perfect blend of style and comfort.
Avoid: Heavy Bangs
Heavy bangs can lead to sticky situations during summer. The extra layer on the forehead traps sweat and can quickly become unruly in humidity. Maintenance becomes a daily task, not to mention the dreaded forehead acne.
While bangs can frame a face beautifully, in summer they often lose their appeal. Instead of looking edgy and cool, they can appear limp and messy.
Rethink heavy bangs for the season if you want a fuss-free, fresh summer hairstyle.
Better: Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs offer a breezy alternative to heavy bangs. This style parts down the middle, allowing for air circulation and a relaxed, stylish look. It’s a throwback with a modern twist that’s easy to manage.
They flatter most face shapes and can be swept aside when the heat is unbearable, maintaining a carefree vibe. Less density means less sweat and oil buildup.
Switch to curtain bangs this summer for a chic, low-maintenance solution that embraces both style and comfort.
Avoid: Long Bob
A long bob, or lob, might seem like a trendy compromise, but it doesn’t always beat the heat. The length can still cover the neck, and in humid conditions, frizz becomes a constant battle.
This style requires regular trims and styling to maintain its shape, which can be high maintenance. Summer is often about ease, and a long bob might not fit that bill.
Consider whether the style’s demands align with your summer lifestyle before committing to a lob.
Better: Short Bob
The short bob is a timeless summer favorite. Its above-the-neck length keeps you cool while offering a sophisticated look. Easy to style and maintain, it’s a go-to for busy summer schedules.
This cut provides a perfect balance between elegance and practicality, allowing you to enjoy your summer without constant styling. It frames the face beautifully and enhances natural features.
Opt for a short bob to keep cool and chic all summer long, with minimal effort required.
Avoid: Tight Curls
Tight curls can be a challenge in summer, as humidity can cause frizz and make styling difficult. The effort required to maintain them can detract from summer enjoyment.
While beautiful, tight curls often demand regular care and treatment to prevent them from becoming unmanageable. Summer heat exacerbates these challenges, making it hard to keep them looking their best.
For a relaxed summer, consider styles that offer more ease and less maintenance than tight curls.
Better: Loose Waves
Loose waves capture the essence of summer with their effortless, natural appeal. This style is perfect for those looking to spend less time in front of the mirror and more time enjoying the sun.
Waves add volume and movement without the heaviness, making them ideal for combating summer frizz. They work with the season’s carefree vibe, offering a low-maintenance, stylish option.
Embrace the simplicity and trendiness of loose waves to breeze through summer with style and ease.
Avoid: High Ponytail
High ponytails might be a quick fix for summer, but they can lead to discomfort. The tension on the scalp and neck can cause headaches, making them less than ideal for long wear.
While this style lifts the hair off the neck, it doesn’t alleviate the heat, and constant adjustments can be tiresome. The sleek look often requires product, which can feel heavy in warm weather.
Think about alternatives that offer more comfort and less pain for your summer days.
Better: Low Ponytail
A low ponytail offers a laid-back, comfortable alternative to its higher counterpart. This style reduces scalp tension and provides a relaxed vibe perfect for summer.
It’s simple yet effective, allowing hair to be swept back without fuss. The low ponytail can be dressed up or down, making it versatile for any occasion.
Opt for a low ponytail to stay cool and comfortable, enjoying your summer activities without the discomfort of a high ponytail.
Avoid: Thick Braids
Thick braids may look striking, but they can be cumbersome in the summer heat. The weight and density can lead to discomfort and scalp tension, making them less than ideal for the season.
Maintaining thick braids requires effort, with frequent touch-ups needed to keep them neat and tidy. Their impressive appearance can be overshadowed by the practical challenges they pose in warm weather.
Consider whether the style is worth the potential discomfort during the hot summer months.
Better: Thin Braids
Thin braids provide a lighter, more manageable alternative for summer. They require less maintenance and offer a chic, bohemian look that fits perfectly with the season.
With less weight, thin braids allow for better scalp ventilation and comfort. They can be styled in various ways, offering versatility without the bulk.
Choose thin braids to enjoy a stylish, low-maintenance summer hairstyle that won’t weigh you down.
Avoid: Long Shag
The long shag cut might be trendy, but it’s not the best for summer. The layers add bulk, and the length can trap heat around the neck and shoulders, defeating summer comfort.
Styling a long shag can be time-consuming, with the need for frequent adjustments to keep it looking effortless. It may not align with the carefree and easygoing vibe of the season.
Reconsider the long shag if you’re aiming for a less fussy summer hairstyle.
Better: Short Shag
A short shag delivers both style and comfort, making it an ideal summer cut. Its shorter length and layers create a lightweight option that reduces heat retention.
This style is effortlessly cool, capturing the playful essence of summer. It offers texture and movement without the bulk, making styling a breeze.
The short shag is perfect for those seeking a fashionable, low-maintenance option that aligns with the season’s spirit.
Avoid: Full Fringe
Full fringes can be challenging in the summer heat, often sticking to the forehead and requiring constant adjustments. They can quickly become limp and greasy in humidity.
Though full fringes add a dramatic touch, they might cause more frustration than fashion during the hottest months. The regular trims needed to maintain them can be burdensome.
Consider whether the drama of a full fringe is worth the potential discomfort this summer.
Better: Side Swept Fringe
The side-swept fringe is a savvy summer choice, offering elegance without the hassle. It allows for better airflow, keeping the forehead cool while providing a stylish touch.
This fringe type is adaptable, suiting various face shapes and easily blending with other styles. It avoids the common summer pitfalls of a full fringe.
Opt for a side-swept fringe to enjoy a sophisticated look that complements the ease of summer living.
Avoid: Thick Undercut
Thick undercuts might seem edgy, but they can trap heat against the scalp. The volume requires careful styling to avoid looking unruly in the summer.
Maintaining a thick undercut can be labor-intensive, with frequent trims needed to keep the style sharp. This contradicts the low-maintenance appeal of summer.
For a cooler, more comfortable option, consider styles that offer less bulk and more air circulation.
Better: Tapered Undercut
The tapered undercut is a smarter summer choice, offering a sleek look with less bulk. It provides style without the heaviness, making it ideal for warm weather.
This cut allows for airflow, keeping the scalp cool while maintaining a trendy appearance. It suits a variety of personal styles, from polished to casual.
Choose a tapered undercut to stay stylish and comfortable, enjoying a hassle-free summer experience.
Avoid: Long Mohawk
Long mohawks command attention, but they can be cumbersome in summer. The height and styling required make them susceptible to collapsing in humidity.
This style demands frequent touch-ups and product use, which can feel heavy in the heat. It may not suit the laid-back nature of summer activities.
Rethink the long mohawk if you’re looking for a manageable summer hairstyle that lets you enjoy the season.
Better: Short Mohawk
The short mohawk combines edge with practicality, making it a fitting summer style. Its reduced length minimizes maintenance while still offering a bold statement.
This cut stays resilient against humidity, maintaining its shape without constant intervention. It aligns with the carefree nature of summer, offering both style and ease.
Opt for a short mohawk to enjoy a standout look that doesn’t compromise comfort in the heat.