Summer is ripe—dare we say bursting—with some of the best things in life. From after-work drinks on the patio to long road trips to sunny days on the beach, no wonder some call it the happiest time of the year! But like everything in life, summer has its setbacks, too. And we’ve got a bone to pick with the aforementioned sunny beach days in particular.
While spending hours in the sun and sand might sound like heaven to many, it can be kind of a nightmare for your strands. (Yes, we know, those beautiful, effortless beach waves—the real kind—could have fooled us.) The sun’s harsh UV rays are damaging not only your skin but also your hair. Prolonged exposure to the sun and its UVA and UVB rays can seriously damage the hair shaft—particularly the cuticle, which is the outermost layer. This sun damage can lead to everything from dry, brittle hair to split ends and even discoloration. We’ll pass on all of the above, thanks.
But now that summer’s come and gone, there’s no need to panic if you see the telltale signs of damage. The only thing to do (other than be equipped with more knowledge when summer rolls around next year, of course) is nurse your hair back to health. Yes, it’s actually possible!
We’ve rounded up some products you need to stock up on for the ultimate dry-hair treatment. Here’s everything you need to know about how to repair damaged hair.
Add an oil
Incorporating a hair oil into your routine is the most important step in nursing your damaged hair back to health. L’Oréal Paris Extraordinary Oil Penetrating Oil leaves hair looking shiny and soft (which everyone needs, especially at the end of summer) with no greasiness—at all. The penetrating oil absorbs into hair beautifully, and it can be used in more concentrated amounts on the ends of brittle hair or all over. Made with a blend of coconut and sunflower seed oils, as well as different floral extracts, this (gorgeously scented) oil won’t weigh your hair down; it simply adds the shine and softness that your damaged hair desperately craves.
Mask on
Did you think it was possible to talk about dry-hair treatment options and not mention a mask? It’s not. L’Oréal Paris Extraordinary Oil Nourishing Mask should be your go-to when you need extra-strength nourishment and immediate results. Formulated with six different precious flower oils, this mask works quickly, sinking into your hair fibres and providing the moisture and hydration your damaged hair is so thirsty for. Simple apply evenly to wet, just-shampooed hair and leave on for three to five minutes before rinsing off. You’ll notice that your hair is totally, instantly transformed into the soft, silky strands of your dreams. The best part? It’s easily rinsed and doesn’t weigh hair down, so you can use it every day until your hair is back in tip-top shape.
Washed up
For damaged hair that needs even more love, turn to and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner to give your hair a dose of moisture and replenishment every single time you wash it. Made with rosemary, the shampoo and conditioner are formulated without the use of sulphates, salts or surfactants—things that can actually strip hair of moisture. Even after your hair is back to optimal health, you won’t want to stop reaching for these formulas every time you step into the shower.