Fading colour, split ends and dry, brittle strands are common complaints following a summer in the sun. Here, we provide some top tips to ensure your hair stays healthy all summer long.

Prepare: It’s in your best interest to get your hair trimmed before summer. Your hair will look much healthier if you chop of any dead ends before the sun can cause any further damage.

Additionally, hair strands are built to be absorbent. If you spray some tap water over your hair before entering the pool or ocean, your tresses wont soak up such high quantities of damaging and dulling salt and chlorine.

Protect: Just like sunscreen for our skin, various products exist on our salon shelves that are designed to protect your hair from UV rays. From preventing colour fading, to keeping hair hydrated, these products are a must for your summer beach bag. They are generally in the form of a spray or leave-in conditioner, and are quick and easy to apply.

Prevent: Opt for a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. Make sure products don’t contain harsh sulfates, parabens or sodium chlorine, which will weigh your hair down and make summer styling near impossible.

Since hair is most fragile when it’s wet, don’t rip a brush through it after swimming. Spray some detangler on it, and then use a wide-tooth comb to minimise breakage. 

Summer heat practically demands we throw our hair back, and a ponytail with no part can help to protect the scalp from exposure to the sun. The problem is that pulling it too tight can cause breakage, particularly if hair health is already compromised. Aim for loose buns and ponytails, and let your hair down before going to sleep at night.

If you’ve spent the days outdoors without protecting your tresses, there is still hope for healthy hair. Make sure to use hydrating shampoo and conditioners, and indulge in a treatment at least once a week. If you’re on a budget, coconut oil is a viable option for nourishing your tresses without breaking the bank. This natural oil is great for hydrating and restoring damaged hair cuticles.