Why they call them the lazy days of summer we’ll never know. Sure, long balmy days and sunsoaked weekends are relaxing in theory, but there’s a beauty checklist that comes with them: Bathing suit ready? Check. Sunscreen for face and body? Check. But what about your hair? How can you protect it from the sun’s powerful rays? We talked to Joel Warren, master colorist and cofounder of Warren Tricomi Salons to find out.
“Kérastase Nutritive Touche Perfection ($35) is a great product to use to protect your hair from the sun,” he says. This replenishing balm not only nourishes dry ends and controls frizz, but also contains UV filters to protect against sun-exposure.
But, if you’re not prepared, Warren has an easy tip for sun protection. “If you don’t have a UV protectant specifically for your hair, then you can use regular sunblock,” he says. “The best way to apply it is the same way you would a serum: rub it between your hands and smooth it over your hair. For best results, do this on wet hair.”
And, if your color is fading from previous sun exposure, try a color-reviving product. Warren recommends Shu Eumura Art of Hair’s Color Luster collection. “One is a golden blond for someone who wants more of a gold tone and one is a cool blond for a more brassy tone. You can also use this on brunettes.”
Beyond sun damage, Warren has another summer warning: “Swimming. It’s not good for your hair,” he says. “Saltwater and pool water both fade your hair color.” In fact, he says they can do more damage than the sun. His tips? “Put fresh water on your hair before going into the pool or ocean. The hair absorbs the pure water first and won’t absorb the salt water. You can even add conditioner for more protection.”
