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Summer means fun in the sun. Lazy days at the beach, lounging by the pool or driving around town with the top down. But if you don't protect your hair from the elements, your dazzling 'do may be brittle, dry and plagued with split ends. Whether it's due to the heat or humidity, every woman has had a bad hair day. You can make them a thing of the past with these tips to keep your hair in tip-top shape throughout the summer.
Going in at the Deep End
It is not just an urban legend that chlorine turns your hair green although strictly speaking it isn't the chlorine itself it is the copper that is added to kill algae that does the damage. The effects on blond and bleached hair are most noticeable although the green tinge can be spotted in dark hair too under a red light. Prevent your blond streaks turning green with an anti-chlorine shampoo and conditioner if your summer plans include a lot of pool time. If it is already too late, make a paste from baking soda and water. Leave it on for 10-20 minutes. The green should come out. Make sure to use a deep-care conditioner afterwards. Green hair isn't the only problem, chlorine can dry out your hair causing it to frizz. This all can usually be prevented if you rinse your hair out straight after going for a swim. Stop the Frizz
Do a hot oil hair treatment followed by a clarifying shampoo about three times a month. The oil treatment offers a moisture surge and adds luster, while the shampoo will remove any residue of chlorine, salt, sunscreen and styling products. If your budget is a bit tight at the moment you can use olive oil instead of the expensive hot oil treatments. Apply it to your hair and wrap in a towel or clingfilm and leave for about 1 hour. Make sure you rinse it out thoroughly to avoid looking like you have greasy hair. Hot Head
Protect your hair and scalp from the damaging rays of the sun. Cover it up with a scarf or hat whenever possible or apply one of the hair creams or sprays that offer sun protection. Remember that colour-treated hair will fade faster when exposed to the direct sunlight. Dress It Up
Alternate your updos. Minimize the breakage caused by tight or frequent ponytails by pulling your hair back with headbands, hair sticks or hair clips instead. Heat It Up
Skip blow-drying and the use of hot rollers and curling irons whenever possible. When there is no other choice, use heat-activated styling products, particularly at the ends, to guard against drying. Related articles
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