French Fried Follicles
A season of exposure to sun, salt water and chlorine residues -- not to mention a few extra chemical "sun" streaks for style -- can wreak havoc on hair. By the end of the summer, hair can become so dehydrated it looks and feels nearly fried.
“It’s not possible to emphasize this enough: Condition, condition, condition! Before a day at the beach or pool, dampen hair with tap water. Comb through a thick hair mask throughout the strands, then sweep back into a loose bun. The heat of the sun will help the mask penetrate your hair, making it silky and soft by the end of the day. Use a rich moisturizer like J. Beverly's Hill Masque Conditioner, it restores moisture, replenishes strength and detangles hair.”
“Give your blow dryer the summer off. Instead, air dry hair whenever possible. Even better, ask your stylist to update your cut so it looks best when not blown out.”
“Redken has a fabulous product called UV Rescue-Daily, it is a protective moisturizer for the hair and contains SPF 12 sunscreen. Work through damp hair massaging liberally into the scalp. Can be used after shampooing.
“Summer is a big time for pony tails. Never put your hair in a tight pony when it is wet. As it dries the pony tail holder will prevent your hair from naturally shrinking causing the hair to break. Additionally, choose safe hair accessories. Pick ones that won't tear or break hair. Holders without metal closures, barrettes with smooth edges and clasps.
“Use a leave-in hair moisturizer throughout the day. The bonus: These products contain sunscreen, which helps protect color-treated hair from the sun -- which can turn color brassy. Phillip B. Lovin’ Leave-in Conditioner has soy and wheat proteins that protect the hair from damaging and drying effects of the summer sun. Apply to towel dry hair and style as usual.”
