Summer-Proof Your Hair
Summer Hair Defense
Sun, chlorine and salt water really can do a number on your hair. "UV rays break down keratin, a protective protein, and hair dye, causing your strands to lose moisture and look dull," explains New York City salon owner Rita Hazan. Swimming in chlorinated pools and salty surf can also dry out hair-by depleting your scalp's natural oils-and chemically alter your color. (Hello, brassiness!) Luckily, there are easy ways to protect your locks. Photo credit: Kristiane Vey/JumpFoto.com
Hair Smarts
Outsmart chlorine
Rinse your hair with lukewarm water before going in the pool, suggests Hazan. Hair is like a sponge: If it has already soaked up plenty of water, it can't absorb much chlorine. To get rid of any residue, lather up with a clarifying shampoo after you swim. Photo credit: Getty Images
Sidestep salt
Before heading to the beach, work a leave-in conditioner into damp strands to create a barrier between your hair and salt water, recommends stylist Umberto Savone, owner of the Umberto Beverly Hills Salon in California.
Shield strands from the sun
Make sure any styling products you use have UV filters to block damaging rays, says Savone. A sun hat with UV protection offers even more defense (Coolibar.com has great options).
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Summer Hair How-Tos
Did you know?
The sunscreen you use on your body can also be used on your hair. Find a paraben- and sulfate-free lotion, mix one part sunscreen with two parts water in a spray bottle and mist your hair before going out in the sun. Photo credit: Thinkstock
We asked... you answered
How do you keep your hair healthy in the summer? I wear a lightweight cotton scarf when I'm going out in the sun for a long time. - EVE HAMOUIE, GALVESTON ISLAND, TX
I air-dry my hair as much as possible. - MADDY PEREZ, SYRACUSE, NY
Once a week, I condition with mayonnaise. It makes my hair really soft. - MARGARET KENNY, AKRON, OH
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Strand Savers
Organic corn syrup removes chlorine buildup. Shea butter and aloe vera moisturize. Aubrey Swimmer's Shampoo, $10.48; at AubreyOrganics.com Photo credit: Suave, Albrey, Garnier
A strong-hold hair-spray that offers UV and frizz protection. Garnier Fructis Style UV Color Shield Anti-Humidity Hairspray, $4.29; at drugstores
Rehydrate brittle locks with a keratin-rich conditioner. Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion Heat Defense Leave-in Conditioner, $3.49; at drugstores
Check out 8 home remedies that actually work.
Original article appeared on WomansDay.com.
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