Hair RX

In May 2016, Polish, Stuff by Alexandra DrosuLeave a Comment

Share this Post

It’s almost summer and time to lounge by the pool, swim at the beach and play in the sun. Unfortunately, all those activities can wreak havoc on your hair. But with a few key products and advice from our experts, you can enjoy the beautiful weather and have a good hair day!

Problem #1

Chlorine chaos

Swimming in heavily chlorinated pools can be especially damaging for blondes. No one wants their golden mane tinged in green. “Make sure your hair is wet before you go into the pool,” says Chuck Hill of Oak City Salon. Hair is porous so you want it to absorb anything but the pool water. You can also lightly spritz hair with a leave-in conditioner to keep chlorine from soaking in. Once you get out rinse hair thoroughly. Use a gently clarifying shampoo, like Kevin Murphy Maxi Wash Detox Shampoo ($28), once a week if you’re an active swimmer, says Jennifer Borneman of Bottega hair studio.

Problem #2

Beach breakage

Sun, sand and salt take their toll on hair, especially for those who color their mane. The biggest problem? Fading. Borneman suggests rinsing hair with chamomile tea to brighten up dull blonde tresses. Wear a hat or tie a scarf loosely around your hair to protect from the elements, adds Hill. Another option: spray on an SPF-infused hair product. Shawn Kekel of Von Kekel Aveda Lifestyle Salon Spa suggests slicking hair back with a conditioning masque, then braid it, twist into a bun at the nape of the neck and secure with bobbi pins. Bonus: The sun will heat up the product for a deep conditioning treatment.

Problem #3

Fighting frizz

Humidity is an ongoing battle for women (and men) in Raleigh. There are several effective anti-humectant products on the market. Hill swears by his own frizz fighting cocktail. Mix a pearl size portion of these three products: Phytodéfrisant; Phyto 7, and Phytolisse. Rub your hands together and smooth over hair.

Problem #4

Beat summer heat

When it gets hot, it’s time to pull long hair off your neck. Avoid ponytails and instead experiment with braids. At the beach, style hair into two French braids. Kekel says the braids will prevent your hair from getting tangled in the ocean. Plus once it dries, simply remove the braids and finger comb for a beautiful beach wave. Those considering a shorter style can take their cue from Netflix. “Very blonde cuts like Robin Wright on ‘House of Cards’ or shorter pixies” are they way to go, says Kekel.

Problem #5

Hat hair hope

Bandanas and scarves are hot accessories this summer, according to Kekel. And, unlike hats, the silky fabrics don’t leave a dent in your hair. But for those who prefer caps or sunhats, try this trick when you don’t have time to shower before going out. Mist hair with lavender water. “Lavender water is an excellent refresher, it deodorizes, and enables you to restyle your hair,” says Hill. Don’t get it soaking wet, just spray lightly and scrunch up hair to give it some fullness.

Must-Have Hair Products for Summer

Aveda Smooth Infusion Nourishing Styling Cream, $26; aveda.com

Work a dollop of cream into wet hair and let air dry.

Phytoplage, $30; phyto-usa.com

Spritz on this lightweight

SPF spray to protect against sun damage.

John Masters Organics Sea Mist Sea Salt Spray with lavender, $5.50; johnmasters.com

Get beach waves without distressing your hair with salt water.

Bella Super-Wide Headwrap, $16; urbanoutfitters.com

Any scarf turns into a versatile headwrap but this ready-made option saves time.

Share this Post

Leave a Comment