The summer months have finally arrived. As we pack our pool bags and head out to bask in the rays of the summer sun, we sun worshipers must make sure we take all of the essentials: beach towel, sunglasses, a thermos of iced tea, and our ever faithful friend sun block. But if sun block is protecting our skin from the burning rays, what’s protecting our hair? If the sun can be so damaging to our skin, what is it doing to our hair?

The sun, as well as seawater and chlorine, can take quite a toll on your hair, leaving it dry and dull and fading your new hair color. The heat of the sun actually can make the cuticle of your hair crack, causing split ends and dryness. So while you’re using sun block to protect your skin, why not protect your hair as well? Redken introduced and new line of sun products to do just that. UV Rescue is a product line designed to protect, restore, and revive your hair from the effects of the sun and other environmental causes.

Daily Sun Milk is the first of the products. It detangles and moisturizes while providing SPF 12 for scalp protection from burning. Protective oil is applied throughout the day to damp hair after exiting the pool. This product provides protection from overdrying, while adding a high shine to the hair. The most needed product is Blonde Guard for blonde hair. This product prevents the absorption of chlorine to porous blonde hair, eliminating the unwanted “green” tones from chlorine exposure. This may be used for colored, highlighted, or naturally blonde hair. After sun care is simple. By using After Sun Shampoo and Conditioner, you’ll be gently cleansing your hair, removing minerals and chlorine deposits, as well as restoring the moisture to your hair while soothing the scalp.

A few more tips for summer hair: see your hairstylist at least every six to eight weeks for a trim to remove unwanted split ends. Also, blot your hair when exiting the shower or pool, rather than rubbing it with a towel, to avoid tangles. Avoid rubber bands and elastic bands to tie hair back when wet, the hair will shrink as it dries, forcing hair to break off. Try wetting your hair before entering a chlorinated pool. So as you pack your pool back to catch some rays, remember to pack your UV protection for you hair as well as your skin. TPW