Summer may be your very favorite time of year, yet all of the long days spent at the beach can also wreck havoc on the condition of your hair. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent the damage. With some inexpensive products and simple styling tricks, you can keep your locks looking and feeling their very best.
Tips that Make the Cut
If you devote most of June through August to swimming in the ocean or pool, your body may be in great shape but your hair may be feeling the effects of all of the salt water, chlorine and sun. Too much contact with any of these can fade and dull your formerly healthy tresses, turning them into a dried and frizzy mess.
That’s why one of the first rules to caring for your hair is to recognize that in the summer months, danger lurks everywhere. Once you know what you are dealing with, then it’s easy to take some of the following steps to protect and pamper your hair.
Cover up. Wear a hat or scarf to keep your hair away from the sun’s damaging rays. This can protect your color and shine and can go a long way.
Get a good cut. Invest in a cut that is easy to style and works with your life and timeframe. Also get regular trims to keep it up and looking its best. This will remove split ends for fuller and healthier hair.
Moisturize. In the summertime you need to add even more moisture to your hair to keep your locks satisfied. Buy a moisture-rich shampoo and conditioner, and consider using a leave-in lotion afterward to coat drier hair. Intensive treatment packs can also come to the rescue when your hair is beginning to feel fried.
Embrace color. Color can actually coat hair strands and add a layer of richness and extra shine. Some experts say getting touch-ups every month will help maintain the benefits of color without needing to keep the solution on so long that it dries your hair out. Just let the color set for a few days before washing to help reduce fading.
Use heat and styling tools sparingly. These can be rough on hair, so use only when you need to, especially at this challenging time of year.
Be protective. Before you use heat tools, use a thermal protectant to coat the strands. Also use a good sun screen made for your hair to keep it from getting damaged.
Invest in the right tools. Some of the better quality products can actually work better than some of the lower grade choices. But keep in mind that salon quality tools may get hotter than less expensive options, so adjust your usage accordingly so you don’t inadvertently damage your hair or skin.
Keep it simple. Less is better, particularly when the temperature is soaring. Whenever possible, go easy on your hair. After washing, just tousle and go. Or, for longer lengths, pull it back into a simple bun or ponytail. This will add a classic touch to almost anything you wear.
The Bottom Line
Keep in mind that while summer is especially rough on your hair, you will benefit by going to such lengths to care for your tresses and keep them looking and feeling great throughout the entire year.
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