Almost everyone is aware of the importance of taking care of your skin in the summer time (sales of sunscreen and other sun care products increase exponentially during the summer months), but what about your hair? Between chlorine from the pool, salt water from the ocean and ultraviolet rays from the sun, come September your once beautiful locks can look dull and frayed. Here are some of our best tips for hair care tips for protecting your hair during the hot summer months.

1. Get a haircut

Starting your summer off with a good trim will get rid of any dead strands of hair or split ends. Your hair will grow out faster during the summer months, and starting off June with a fresh, healthy style will help your hair stay healthier longer.

2. Lay off the heat

Give your hair a break and let it breathe during the summer months. This means changing your hair care routine to include less blow drying, less straightening, and less curling whenever possible. Loose braids or ponytails are a great way to keep your hair tame in the heat while letting your hair breathe naturally.

3. Apply hair sunscreen lotion

Hair lotion is a great option to protect your head of hair from intense UV rays. Stylecaster.com recommends Clarins Sunscreen Oil Spray (found at Sephora), Paul Mitchell Sun Shield Conditioning Spray (found online) or Ojon Color Sustain Pro Fade-Fighter.

4. Dip your hair before taking a dip

Before getting in the pool, lake, or ocean be sure to take a shower and drench your hair. This will help your hair repel any chemicals and salt. You should also take a quick shower after being in the water to wash out any toxins before they have a chance to absorb.

5. Use anti-frizz oil

Well-maintained hair shows less frizz then dried out hair. You can fight the frizz with a variety of oils. Sephora’s list of Best Anti-Frizz Treatments include Moroccan Oil, Oil Primer Replenishing Moisture Shampoo or Hair Oil. When you shine and smoothen your hair, you are prepping your locks for long, outdoor summer days.

6. Wear a hat

Men and women alike should pick up one or two baseball caps to bring to the beach or on a nature hike. Protecting your scalp from the sun is a great way to keep your hair clean, fresh, and healthy for longer periods of time.

7. Use a wide tooth comb

Instead of a brush, use a wide-tooth comb when brushing your hair. This method is a less harsh, and is an efficient way to detangle your hair that you can add to your every day hair care regimen.

8. Use stress management techniques

Hair care means taking care of your mind as well. Stress is a major contributor to hair loss and thinning, making stress management essential to maintaining healthy hair. Meditation, coloring, exercise, yoga, massages, or reading are great stress management options and can help you keep your healthy hair all summer long.

9. Drink more water

Water has a multitude of health benefits, one of which is fighting excess summer humidity. Water nourishes your scalp pores and hydrates your hair. Find a water bottle you love at your local Target or Walmart and keep it with you so that you remember to sip.

Protecting your hair during the hot summer months is just as important as shielding your skin from intense sun rays. Learn more about fighting the root causes of hair loss and damage at RegenerisMedical.com or make an appointment today.