The blazing sun and chlorine pools of summer have caused more damage to your hair than you may realize. While those strands may just be dead cells hanging on your head, there are ways to bring them back to life.
Spot the damage
If you spent the summer soaking up the sun, chances are your hair could be fried. When you see some rustic coloration or a straw-like texture, UV rays are the ones to blame.
At the same time, products and tools can cause damage of their own.
The most common red flag is split ends, or dry tips. Split ends are caused by an over-usage of hot tools, excessive washing and using hair gel like Pauly D. Believe it or not, the way you wash your hair makes a difference.
“One thing a lot people don’t know about is buildup from mineral water,” said Charlie Brackney, founder and creative director of Haus Salon in Minneapolis.
Buildup from well water creates texture changes that cause hair strands to trap dirt and grease. Without proper care, the minerals will coat your hair’s cuticle layers.
Save your tresses
Now that you’re worriedly tugging at the tips of your hair, let’s lay out the solutions you have.
It’s essential for all types of hair to have a balance of protein and moisture.
“People with medium to thicker hair and colored hair typically need more protein,” Brackney said. “Those with thin and frail hair should avoid too much protein, as it can cause brittleness.”
Reconstruction masks are the best move for silky strands. Brackney recommends the $58 Lumiere d’hiver mask by Number 4. It replenishes your hair with natural ingredients like Shea butter and sunflower oil.
If you’re broke, there are affordable alternatives. Just pop into any Walgreens or CVS and head for the Garnier Fructis. The brand provides the best drugstore quality at about $5-7 per bottle.
Fructis surpasses any other option on the shelf because it has everything from frizz control (Sleek & Shine) to color protection (Color Shield) and nourishment (Triple Nutrition). The Daily Care shampoo is a staple everyone should have. You can use it daily without worrying about oily residue.
Develop a routine
Product is important for a healthier hair diet. But don’t get me wrong — basic daily routines are the easiest ways to make your tresses more durable.
You should also get your hair trimmed regularly. The amount of time between cuts will vary based on the length of your hair, but aim for every 8-12 weeks. If you use hot tools and a lot of hairspray and gel, get trims more frequently.
Even something as basic as brushing your hair every day with a comb or soft bristled brush leads to a softer texture. Never try to untangle wet hair, because you’ll end up yanking it out instead of smoothing it. Wait until your hair is semi- or fully dry to tackle the knots.
Taking care of your hair is crucial. Know your hair history and treat your hair regimen like any other hygienic routine.
Keep it up
As the cool winds of fall approach, expect to have your hair thrown up in trendy up-dos.
Revamped Braid:
This season, the braid is making a comeback. Brackney wrapped a couple slim feather braids in a low braided bun for a simple, feminine look.
Low Pony:
One of the easiest hairstyles to rock is the low ponytail. All you need to do is slick your sides and pull your hair casually back. Or throw in loose curls at the end of the ponytail for some extra bounce. For on-the-go college students, this look is both trendy and practical.
