So you think that your skin is the only part of you damaged by the harsh elements of summer? Well your hair follicles are stripped everyday by washing and styling which is amplified when you expose your hair to sun, salt, and chlorine, like so many summertime activities include!  Even if you have been damaging your hair all summer, there is still some hope if you make some changes now to your haircare regimen.

FIRST, go easy on the shampooing, and reduce washing to 1-2 times per week (especially if you have longer hair).  Washing strips proteins, and can make hair dull and brittle, which, when coupled with the damaging effects of the sun, salt, chlorine can equal disaster for your hair.  TIP: Instead, use a rinse to add shine, like lemon juice and water...or just use conditioner, your hair will thank you!

EASE UP ON STYLING PRODUCTS, especially hair spray! Styling aids contain alcohol and other chemicals which can excessively dry out the hair, so if possible, opt for a more natural look for the rest of the summer.  As long as temperatures continue to soar into the 80s, beach hair is definitely in style!

On that note, make sure to AVOID HEAT! Hair dryers, curling irons, and flat irons not only damage the cuticle, but they add to dryness, brittle-ness and cause color to fade quickly.  At least for the few remaining weeks of summer, give your hair a rest and you will thank me later!

There is an ongoing debate on SPF for your hair, and its effectiveness, but I believe that at the very least, it will add moisture to your hair, which always improves texture and shine.  RENE FURTERER has a great line of sun-care for your hair which I love because it contains Sesame, Palm, and Kernel oils, with added lipids to restore  shine and texture. START with the Summer Protective Fluid, which shields hair exposed to sun, salt, and chlorine.  One application works all day, and a small amount goes a long way!

$23 - Rene Furterer at Beauty.com

ONCE A WEEK, remove excess buildup from salt and chlorine using Repairing Shampoo, followed by the Repairing After-Sun Mask.  This will get rid of excess build up while softening and moisturizing your hair so that even in the dry August heat, you can look your best, from the BOARDWALK to the CATWALK!
$21 - Rene Furterer at Beauty.com
$26 - Rene Furterer at Beauty.com