Summer Hair Tips

June 2010

"If you want your hair to look more beach goddess than beach buffeted then prevention is better than cure" is the advice from Chapters' Kerastase Specialist Tracey Sanderson. "Sun, salt and chlorine can play havoc with colour and condition so here are my top tips"

An intensive conditioning treatment pre-holiday will boost moisture levels. Treat yourself to an in-salon treatment or ask your stylist for advice on a product to use at home.
UV rays break down the protein in your hair leaving it frizzy and dry so don't venture out in the sun without protection on your hair and scalp. Use a sun product with a high SPF in the form of a gel, mousse, spray or leave-in conditioner. The Kérastase Soleil range has a good range of products developed specially to offer UVA and UVB filters as does L'anza's Swim and Sun collection. Wear a hat or a scarf where you can.
The heavy metals in chlorinated water can turn hair, especially blondes, brassy with a greenish hue. Wet hair soaks up less chlorine than dry, so rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water before your swim - I just take a bottle of tap water to the beach.
Once in the pool, my summer hair hero is Philip Kingsley's Swim Cap. This clear gel forms a strong, protective barrier against the sea and chlorinated water. So if you like splashing around in the water all day this is the one for you.
Cleanse your hair immediately after your swim using a shampoo specially formulated to remove chlorine - Kérastase Bain Après-Soleil is a real holiday gem. If you can't immediately shampoo your hair then thoroughly rinse hair with fresh water. Always remember to re-apply your protection.
Give your sun-stressed tresses an overnight indulgent nourishment with a deep conditioning treatment to restore bounce and shine. Kérastase Brume Nuit Apres-Soleil is a firm favourite of mine.
Keep styles and accessories simple. Holidays are the perfect opportunity to cut down on heated tools and irons. Velcro rollers are a great instant style reviver, adding body and life.
And finally, remember to pack a travel plug!