The sun can damage your hair just as it does your skin. If you add salt water and chlorine to the equation, hair that started out as shiny and easy to manage at the beginning of your holiday can quickly begin to look and feel fried. The damage can be more obvious if your hair is colour-treated but even if it’s not, UV rays can dry it out and cause the dreaded frizz.
Fear not, help is at hand.
Start summer with a trim. You’ll get rid of split ends and refresh your style. You might need a mid-season cut, too.
Shield your hair from the sun. Make a daily habit of applying a hair care product that contains UV filters (these can be in spray, gel, or cream formulas). These products protect hair from sun damage and help keep colour-processed hair from fading. If you intend to spend lots of time outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat. Not only will it keep your hair from getting scorched, it will also protect your scalp and ears, areas that we often forget when applying sunscreen.
Saturate hair before taking a dip. If your hair is drenched with clean water or leave-in conditioner, it won’t absorb as much salt water or pool chemicals. It’s also a good idea to try to rinse your hair after a swim. If there isn’t a shower nearby, keep a spray bottle filled with fresh water.
Switch to a moisturising shampoo and conditioner. You may be washing your hair more frequently to deal with summer’s sweat and grime. If you are using a clarifying, or anti-residue shampoo once a week to clear away product build-up and chemicals, be sure to follow with a deep-conditioning treatment.
Skip the hot tools. At least once or twice a week give your hair a break from blow dryers, straighteners and curling irons.
Outwit frizz. Hair that’s healthy and well-maintained is your best defence against frizz. Along with regular trims and conditioning, a drop or two of an anti-frizz oil or serum can help smooth hair and add shine. When the air is humid frizz is going to happen. Don’t waste your summer trying to fight frizz. Instead, find an easy go-to hairdo like a slick pony, high bun, or side braid for those high-humidity days.
If you would like advice about which products would best suit you, please ask. At the salon I use KMS California which is an extensive range with products to suit all hair types and situations.