How to Protect Your Locks from Sun, Salt, and Chlorine

With the warmer months finally here, many of us are jetting off on holiday or planning sunny weekends outdoors. But while a bit of sunshine is fantastic for the soul, it can wreak absolute havoc on your hair.

As a L’Oréal Colour Specialist, I see the same pattern every year: clients returning to the salon after the summer with faded colour, brittle ends, and hair that feels more like straw than silk. UV rays, swimming pool chlorine, and sea salt act like a triple-threat to your hair’s health.

Fortunately, with a few simple tweaks to your routine, you can enjoy the sun while keeping your mane looking gorgeous. Here is my ultimate guide to summer hair maintenance.

1. Create a Shield Against Chlorine and Salt

Before you dive into the pool or the sea, take a trip to the beach showers and drench your hair with fresh tap water.

Think of your hair like a sponge. If it’s already completely saturated with clean, fresh water, it won’t be able to absorb nearly as much of the drying salt water or chemical-heavy chlorine. For extra protection, comb a little leave-in conditioner through your damp hair before swimming to create an extra protective barrier.

2. Guard Your Colour Against UV Rays

Just like your skin, your hair needs sun protection. Strong UV rays degrade the protein structure of your hair and bleach out both natural and professional pigments. If you’ve invested in a beautiful bespoke balayage or a rich brunette shade at the salon, the sun will rapidly fade it or turn it brassy.

Whenever you’re spending the day outside, wear a stylish hat, or use a dedicated hair mist containing UV filters.

3. Double Down on Hydration

Summer hair needs moisture, moisture, and more moisture. The combination of heat and humidity strips away natural oils, leading to frizz and split ends.

Swap out your regular conditioner once a week for a intensive treatment. Because we are an Official L’Oréal Professionnel Stockist, we always recommend the Absolut Repair Molecular range for summer recovery. It works at a deeper level to reform the hair’s structure, instantly restoring softness and shine to sun-damaged locks. You can pop by our Egerton Street salon anytime to pick some up before you pack your bags.

4. Be Gentle with Wet Hair

Whether you’ve just stepped out of the hotel pool or the shower, remember that hair is at its weakest when it is wet. Tug at it with a standard brush, and you’ll cause instant breakage.

Always use a wide-tooth comb or a specialised detangling brush, starting from the ends and gently working your way up to the roots. Try to let your hair air-dry naturally where possible on holiday to give your locks a well-deserved break from heated styling tools.

Book Your Post-Holiday Rescue

Even with the best at-home care, a summer holiday takes a toll. The best way to get your hair back on track is to book in for a quick post-holiday refresh. A professional trim to clear away split ends, combined with a L’Oréal glossing treatment, will instantly restore your colour’s vibrancy and shine.

Planning your summer calendar? Make sure a salon visit is on the list! You can call us on 01244 329 664 or book your appointment by completing the contact booking form below.

See you all in the summer sun!

Hannah x