There is no doubt, summer is the season of fun! Whether it’s spending time in the pool or hours in the sun, our favorite summer activities can wreak havoc on your hair.

Chlorine from pools, saltwater at the beach, UV rays, heat and even air conditioning are all factors that can cause dryness and damage.
Even those tight ponytails and buns that help us survive the summer heat can also cause breakage.

Luckily, we’ve got you covered. Here are 5 summer hair care tips that will keep your hair healthy and hydrated all summer long!

Tip #1: Moisturize. Moisturize. Moisturize

Don’t let excessive heat and sun zap much-needed moisture from your hair!
Even when you visit the beach or pool to cool off, the chlorine in pool water and salt in seawater can further dry your hair out , causing it to become dry, and brittle (also known as ‘Swimmer's Hair’).
Here's how to keep your hair moisturized all summer long: 

1.  Shield your strands from the sun with scarves or hats (wide-brim is best). This will protect you from harmful UV rays as well as help protect your hair color.
2.  Replace cotton pillowcases with silk or satin ones .
   This will help your hair retain moisture from both hair products and natural oils. It also reduces friction that can cause tangles and breakage.
3.  Saturate your hair with a Leave-In Conditioner before going for a swim to coat your hair with an extra barrier against chlorine and saltwater. We recommend Redken One united. 
4.  Wear silicone swim caps while swimming - while it won’t keep your hair perfectly dry, it will safeguard your hair from excessive chlorine exposure.
5.  Hydrating shampoo + conditioner is a must! Make sure to shampoo and condition your hair immediately after you swim. We recommend Redken All Soft Shampoo and Conditioner.
6. Use hair oils to keep moisture locked into your hair.  Hair oils work by creating a protective layer over your strands to prevent them from drying out. While keeping the moisture in your hair, they also nourish and condition your strands, keeping them soft and manageable.

Tip #2: Drop The Heat

Between the summer sun and heat, using heat-styling tools this season might not be a good option .
On most days, resort to air-drying . It's safer and will give your hair a break from the potentially damaging heat of blow dryers and styling tools.

Tip #3: Wear Loose And Comfortable Protective Styles

Another way to retain moisture and prevent breakage in your hair is using protective styling.
Some great protective styles include:
Crown Braid
Low ponytail (With a scrunchie)
Double French braids
Low bun (With a scrunchie)
There are plenty of claw clip styles as well

​But when you install these styles, go easy on your scalp . Tight styles can make your scalp tense and tender, especially around your hairline, so that your strands become weak and vulnerable .
When this happens, they may begin to pull out from the root in what is known as traction alopecia. You can also experience breakage along the hair shaft because of the tension on the length of the strand.

Tip #4:Sunscreen

Did you know? If ingredients in traditional sunscreens come in contact with your hair, a chemical reaction can occur and could discolour your hair.
Lighter colored hair and extension wearers are particularly susceptible to discoloration.

Similar to how SPF and other beauty products have been known to stain clothes, your sunscreen may have the potential to also discolor your hair.

Tip #5: Stay Hydrated​

In summer, you sweat more and get dehydrated faster. Dehydration leads to weak, unhealthy hair and stunted hair growth . Why? Water helps transport nutrients around your body, especially those responsible for hair health.

This season, drink LOTS of water, at least 2.7 liters of water a day , to strengthen, moisturize, and grow your hair long and healthy from within.