Hair Care Pros’ 5 Rules for Maintaining Gorgeous Summer Hair—Avoid Sun, Chlorine, and Salt Damage That Can Ruin Your Look

A HAIRCARE expert has weighed in on how to prevent summer damage.

Its five rules cover hot-weather issues that can harm locks, including sun, chlorine, and salt.

Louise Bailey, founder of London beauty clubShe knows her way around hair care as she runs a high-end extensions salon.

Bailey’s tips serve travelers even on the fanciest beach getaways.

She addressed the role that the sea, sand and sun can play when it comes to hair.

The pro also advised ways to keep your hair healthy while staying worry-free on vacation.

THE RULES

Bailey pointed out five main rules for keeping your hair healthy in the summer.

“Don’t forget sun protection,” she said.

She added that dermatologists have realized that the sun can harm both hair and skin.

“It turns out that your hair is just as susceptible to sun damage as your skin,” she said.

“Research has found that frequent exposure to UV light decreases hair lipids.

“These are the fatty acids that help form hair structure, so when they are broken down, hair becomes more brittle, dry and frizzy.”

Bailey offered a solution – sunscreen for her hair.

“If you are looking for a sunscreen to use on your hair, be careful with products that list the ingredient Avobenzone, as this can change the color of your hair and extensions,” she said.

For those with dyed hair, she recommended opting for a sun hat.

OVER-PROTECTIVE

Bailey said how you wear your hair can make all the difference.

She added that protective hairstyles can also keep locks secure.

“A protective hairstyle will help restrict your hair’s movement and prevent it from becoming a dry, tangled mess,” she said.

WASH, WASH

For her third rule, she emphasized the importance of rinsing well before and after swimming.

“Your hair is porous and absorbs chlorine and salt when swimming. However, these chemicals leave your hair brittle and dry,” she said.

“Rinsing your hair with clean water before swimming will reduce its ability to absorb sea or pool water.”

THROW IT IN THE BAG

Bailey added that there’s one hair care must-have for beach bags and travel—leave-in hair conditioner.

“This will help maintain humidity levels and provide a protective barrier against environmental damage,” she said.

She recommended opting for one that meets specific needs and reapplying it when necessary.

“This simple step can make a significant difference in keeping your hair soft, hydrated and manageable,” she said.

CLEAN MEDIUM

Lastly, she always gives her scalp some love and care for enviable hair.

“Keeping your scalp clean and well-hydrated will prevent dryness and irritation,” she said.

“If you spend hours at the beach, it is likely that there is also a build-up of sand and salt in your hair.

“When washing your hair, use a clarifying shampoo and lather in gentle circular motions to remove grit buildup without irritating your scalp.”