Summer hair conjures up images of tousled waves, natural highlights and luscious locks, but the reality is often brittle, damaged and dull hair. Heat and humidity, sun, saltwater and chlorine leave us with dry, dull, lifeless hair and brittle or split ends.
Prevention is your best friend, but knowing how to repair damage is also a good friend to have on board. Moisture, replenishment and heat protection are also high on the list of BFFs to keep your hair in its best possible condition.
The sun is undoubtedly your worst enemy in summer with UVA and UVB rays constantly bombarding hair that is unprotected. Solar protection crèmes are available. However, if salon products are not your thing, never fear, you can dabble in a little alchemy of sorts and concoct your very own homemade recipes.
These are four of the tried and tested best for deep conditioning:
1. Mix 1 tablespoon honey and any type of vegetable oil. Distribute mixture evenly all over the hair. Leave for 20 minutes.
2. Coat dry hair with mayonnaise, once finished cover with a plastic shower cap and leave on for 10-20 minutes.
3. Apply olive oil all over your hair. Cover with a plastic bag and let it stay for 20 minutes. For extra conditioning take a warm shower while waiting. The heat will help the oil work to its maximum potential.
4. Beat one egg, add 3 tablespoons of water and apply to scalp and hair.
For all of these recipes, shampoo after 20 minutes and condition as usual.
If lack of shine is your biggest weakness try one of these never fail homemade methods:
1. Boil used tea leaves in water, let it cool and then use the liquid as the final rinse in your hair regime. Alternatively, you can use flat beer as the final rinse.
2. Lemon juice mixed with water can also be used to give your hair a shiny and bouncy look.
As well as professional advice, old-school tips and tricks and wonder products, there are always quick and easy tips to protect your lovely locks this summer:
1. Wear a hat to cover your delicate strands
2. Tie your hair in a top knot, a bun or braids is perfect if frizz gets the better of you.
3. Use hair products with sun protection in them.
4. Rinse your hair with cold fresh water after a swim in the sea or chlorine and then add a leave-in conditioner to de-stress your locks.
Summer is all about relaxation and restoration so the last thing you want to worry about is your hair care. Take on board some of these simple tips and techniques and have a summer free of bad hair days!
