Your Summer Hair Survival Guide

THE FIX:
“Salt water can make your hair feel horrible, but also cause it to tangle more easily. I always recommend washing your hair after a beach day – I like Kérastase’s Soleil range, which is specifically designed to hydrate the hair and remove any salt or chlorine. If you want to go one step further to actually prevent salt water and chlorine from being absorbed into the hair, I recommend rinsing your hair with water before going swimming. This way, the hair is saturated with water molecules so will be less able to absorb or soak up any salt or chlorine.” – Chloe Swift, hair stylist  

THE FIX:
“Chlorine wreaks havoc on lightened hair – it’s one of the many struggles of being a blonde. The chemical dries out the cuticle, making it more porous and thus susceptible to discolouration caused by minerals in water. When it comes to fixing brassy hair, most people reach for purple shampoo, thinking it’ll combat those unwanted yellow and orange tones. Stay away from the purple shampoo – it dulls blonde hair. Instead, I’d recommend using a clarifying shampoo or a brightening shampoo, which will actively target and remove the unwanted minerals after those hours in the pool.” – Andrew Heasman, international creative director at RUSH Hair  

THE FIX:
“Humidity is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to disrupting curls and making them lose definition. Curls need a lot of moisture – the right products will enhance your curl pattern and help them hold. Use a microfibre towel to gently absorb any excess water, then go in with a curl-defining cream. Apply a generous amount all through your hair, then saturate it in the curly version of Color Wow Dream Coat. You can then let your hair dry naturally or use a diffuser to speed up the process – this will defeat the humidity and give you long-lasting curls.” – Jack Luckhurst, hair stylist  

THE FIX:
“Frizz is caused by the hair being dry and seeking moisture from the atmosphere, hence why it’s quite common in humid climates. Your best bet is to prevent it in the first place. The more nourished and hydrated your hair is, the less it will seek that additional moisture. Hair oils are great for nourishing and sealing moisture into dry mid-lengths and ends. I recommend applying some into damp hair and blow-drying it in, as well as applying small amounts into dry hair to smooth, add shine and give you a flyaway-free finish.” – Hollie Rose Clarke, hair stylist 

THE FIX:
“UV exposure can damage the cuticle and break down your natural keratin levels, which affects your hair’s pigment. If you go without protection, you might find the colour fades faster and your hair is more prone to breakage and dryness. Just as you incorporate an SPF into your daily skincare routine, it’s time to consider adding a UV protector for your hair. I love Living Proof’s new Leave-In Conditioning Spray, which seals in moisture and leaves your hair silky-soft. It also comes in a handy travel size – ideal for throwing in your beach bag.” – Hollie  

THE FIX:
“Several factors can disrupt the hair growth cycle, from stress and medications to certain products and tight hairstyles. Regular exercise can help, as can eating a balanced diet. Using a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils is important too. Also, try to stay away from hot tools – limit yourself to one to two times a week. Similarly, reducing the chemical impact on your hair, i.e. less bleaching and colouring, will make a real difference. Another tip is to sleep with a satin or silk pillowcase to minimise friction. Finally, give your scalp regular breaks from braiding or extensions.” – Jack  

THE FIX:
“Sebum – the oil secreted by the scalp – is normal, but some people may find their scalp is imbalanced and overproduces it, leading to greasiness. The only fix is to use a targeted shampoo to treat the imbalance. I recommend Kérastase Specifique Bain Divalent, which purifies the scalp and shifts excess sebum. Another great option is Vichy Dercos Oil Control. With long-term use, both of these rebalance the scalp. Finally, no, I’m afraid you cannot train your hair to produce less sebum by washing less frequently. Regular washing is absolutely key for keeping that oil at bay.” – Chloe  

Follow @CHLOESWIFTSTYLIST, @HOLLIEDOESMYHAIR & @JACKLUCKHURST

DISCLAIMER: Features published by SheerLuxe are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your GP or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programme.