Last week I talked about summer hair. Now it's time to talk about summer hair care. I know that it is July and no one wants to think about this yet, but September is around the corner. What looks good in the summer doesn't always look good in the fall.

Hair that looks sunlit in the summer can start to look brassy in the fall. That extra body and wave that happens in summer humidity can begin to look like frizz. Today, I am going to give you the "heads up" on summer hair care so you won't panic this fall!

When you are out having fun in the sun it is easy to forget how harmful the sun can be to your hair. It can burn your hair and dry it out. Let's not even think about what it does to your hair color. The sun is strong and powerful. Excessive time in the sun is more harmful than frequent blow drying. So does this mean you should skip the summer? Absolutely not! You just have to think ahead and be prepared. It is not easy or fun to try to retrieve your hair's texture, condition, color, and shine. Protection is prevention. Prevention is the key to a smooth transition to fall.

Yes, it's time to head for cover–or should I say cover your head. When you are out in the sun for long periods of time, it is essential you cover your hair. Whether it be a Hermes scarf or a baseball cap, doesn't matter. Hats and scarves provide the best protection from the sun. You don't want to wear a hat all summer long? There are sunblocks available for the hair, but they are not very strong. They provide as much protection as a SPF 4 or SPF 8 does for your skin. This isn't enough to get you through a summer safely, but it's better than no protection at all.

Just because you are protecting your hair doesn't mean you don't have to worry about conditioning it. Unless you put yourself in a plastic bubble, the summer elements will still take their toll on your hair. Summertime means it is time to condition your hair as part of your regular beauty routine. The first step is to rethink your shampoo. Is it gentle enough? If not, switch it for a more conditioning shampoo. Remember, your hair is more sensitive and delicate now than at any other time of year. Daily conditioning works and it is essential. Daily conditioners add moisture and keep hair pliable so your hair won't snap and split when combing or styling. Remember always use a wide tooth comb to untangle hair.

TIP - Start to comb your hair from the ends and work you way to the roots. A quick combing without conditioning can do more damage than a summer in the sun. Deep conditioning treatments are also a great idea. Deep condition your hair once a week all summer long. I know the big problem with deep conditioning treatments is the twenty to thirty minutes they take to work. Here's the solution to this time problem. When you take your shower, shampoo your hair first, rinse your hair, squeeze out excess moisture, and apply deep conditioner.

TIP- Apply more conditioner where your hair needs it most. This is usually the top layers and tips of hair. Now suds up and zone out or shave your legs. Rinse when you are finished. Don't worry if you are a few minutes short of the suggested time. Some conditioning is better than none. I must mention here my Instant Deep Treatment conditioner takes ten minutes or less. Believe me I understand the time crunch all too well.

Let’s talk about leave in conditioners. They are great for summer and work especially well on thick dry hair. They can make fine hair look dirty so be prepared to tie your hair back or braid it. You can find leave in conditioners at any drug store. If you don't have a leave in conditioner, mix one or two teaspoons of your favorite instant conditioner in a spray bottle full of water and shake well. You now have a spray on leave in conditioner.

Swimming or just splashing around in the water is a rite of summer. It's always fun and relaxing but it is rough on hair. I am not going to tell you to wear a swim cap because I know you won't. Here is an easy way to protect your hair from chlorine or salt water: Wet your hair with fresh water before you take your dip. Think of your hair as a sponge. If it's full of water, it is difficult for it to absorb more. You must rinse your hair with fresh water every time you enter the water. Shampoo and condition at end of day. This is vital to remove any residue of chlorine or salt water.

I have to say one last thing about the summer–It's hot out there! Remember this when the sun goes down and you reach for your hair dryer. This is double punishment for your hair. Try one of the summer sets from last week’s blog or as seen on the Today Show. They are easy to do and make your hair look beautiful.

Whether you are a beach bunny or not, summer can be rough on your hair. Just think ahead to preserve, protect, and condition your hair.

One last thing, don't forget to book an appointment for a color and cut in September. Trust me, you will need it!

Now, go to the beach. The sun is out and the water is perfect. Have fun!