By Jessica Conway, GalTime Associate Producer
Summer is here and the temperature is rising! Whether you're planning to sun or swim, your hair is at increased risk for dryness and breakage…gasp! Thankfully, celebrity hairstylist Sherri Jessee has come to the rescue!
Going for a swim? Salt buildup can lead to dry, hard to manage hair, and chlorine can cause cuticle damage and split ends. That's because the chemicals strip away sebum, a natural scalp lubricant. To prevent this, treat your mane before or after hitting the water. Sherri suggests that prior to the pool or beach, wet your hair with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner. Afterwards, you can shampoo your hair and then rinse with a little bit of white vinegar and lemon water - the acid will help restore shine and strip away chemicals.
Fun in the sun? UVA and UVB rays have the power to damage your hair, too! Sherri says that signs of sun-damaged hair include brittleness and dryness, broken or split ends, frizz, faded color, and even weakened or thinning hair. She emphasizes the importance of protecting products that contain UVB absorbers, seal the hair shaft to prevent humidity, and moisturize with natural proteins and extracts (Try: RUSK Deepshine Lustre, $15). These days, many leave in conditioners, products for styling, and hairsprays contain sunscreen - perfect for preventing fading or lightening of colored hair. Just think of it as a sun block for your locks! (Try: Tresemme Climate Control Shampoo, $4.49)
Related: Sun Smart Girl's Guide to Summer Bronzer
Taking a shower? The hair cuticle, which protects the cortex, or inner layer, can be lifted by hot water. This causes hair to look dull, rough, and even faded. Sherri suggests rinsing hair with cold water because it smoothes the cuticle, creating a smoother strand of hair that reflects light. Conditioner is also essential - so make sure to apply each time you shampoo! Sherri also says that daily leave-in conditioners and weekly conditioning treatments - available at drugstores - are great for restoring moisture lost from the sun. (Try: L'Oreal EverPure Moisture Repair Leave-In Treatment, $7.74)
Related: Gorgeous Hair: Why Your Brush Matters
Getting ready? Don't worry, it's safe to use your flat-iron and other styling tools! Just remember to use a heat protecting spray to avoid heat damage (Try: Sedu Color Heat Protecting Boost, $12.99). Just be sure to set the iron to the proper temperature. If your hair is thick, coarse, and resistant, use a higher temperature (350-450 degrees). Fine and fragile hair calls for lower temperatures (210-325).
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