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The Ultimate Guide To Sun-Proofing Your Hair This Summer

These SPF sprays and stylers will shield your scalp and strands from the damaging summer sun
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For new shades that are slowly fading away
If you color your hair, the sun becomes your number-one nemesis in the summertime. UVA rays damage the color pigments that make up your natural hair color, (hence why your shade is lighter once September rolls around), so you can only imagine the havoc they wreak on fragile hair that's been chemically processed. Too much time outside means your pricey dye-job fades to unflattering shades and the damage factor continues to rise.

Undo the damage: If your hair is looking more yellow than blonde, pick up a purple (yes, purple) shampoo, like John Frieda Sheer Blonde Colour Renew Tone Correcting Shampoo, $6.49, to neutralize the unflattering shade. This pick absorbs UV light and emits white-blue light to make hair appear brighter, not fried. If you're a brunette whose hair looks more red than brown, try Rita Hazan Ultimate Shine Color Gloss in Breaking Brass, $26, to cure a case of accidental ginger.

Prevent it for good: To protect the color you paid for, Black recommends using Aveda Color Conserve Daily Color Protect, $24, which is formulated with natural wintergreen extracts to help defend against the sun's rays. For extra protection, finish off your look with a UV-reflecting styling product like Garnier Fructis UV Ultra Strong Hairspray, $3.99.

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For your itchy, flaky, tender, and always vulnerable scalp
Before you hit the beach you make sure you cover the back of your ears in sunscreen, but you're still missing one important spot: Your scalp. According to Fusco, individuals with thin hair, fair skin or on medications like tetracycline, antibiotics or Accutane are even more susceptible to sun damage on the scalp. If you've been experiencing any redness or less obvious symptoms like a tightness, it's time to rethink the reach of your SPF radius.

Undo the damage: If your scalp's been scorched, work a nourishing deep treatment mask like Clear Scalp & Hair Intense Hydration Treatment Mask, $5.49, into your routine. Once a week, Fusco recommends applying the mask from root to ends, then combing hair back to cover up your usual part. Skip the rinse, sit poolside (or oceanside) and allow the hydrating cactus extract to replenish your scalp.

Prevent it for good: Fusco recommends directly applying sunscreen to your part using a makeup sponge or Q-tip. "The same rules apply to scalp as do to the face -- a minimum of SPF 15 and reapplication after swimming." If you're worried about ruining your 'do, try applying a flesh toned mineral powder like Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Powder SPF 50, $23, directly to your scalp for DIY dry shampoo and sun protection in one. If you have darker hair, try one of Fusco's handy tips: Apply a clear SPF lip protector like ChopSaver Gold Lip Balm with SPF 15, $3.99. "It isn't greasy or ghostly white, has broad spectrum coverage and applies directly to scalp without affecting hair."

BY ERICA SMITH | MAY 5, 2014 | SHARES
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