How to protect hair from chlorine damage
“Chlorine will strip the hair of natural oils, making it brittle and vulnerable to split ends, but it can also affect your hair colour and give it a slight green tint – which isn’t often the desired look!
Nicky continues, “My top tip for when you’re exposing your hair to chlorine is to thoroughly wet your hair with non-chlorinated water beforehand. Your hair will act like a sponge to absorb the clean water, reducing chlorine from coming into contact. Post-swim, I would recommend that you wash your hair immediately to remove any trace of chlorine, otherwise, you risk the chemical sitting in your strands and causing damage.”
How to protect hair from saltwater/ seawater damage
“Just like you would with chlorine, wet your hair before exposing it to sea or salt water to avoid any absorption, which can also lead to dry and brittle hair. I would also recommend generously coating hair in a leave-in conditioner to give it an extra fighting chance to withstand any moisture loss.”
How to best protect hair from UV and sun exposure
“One of the easiest things you can do is purchase hair products formulated with UV protection.”
Nicky says, “There are so many on the market but the best sun protection for hair is LifeSaver UV from the Michael Van Clarke professional range. Tested in the blistering heat of the Negev desert as well as the sun and sea of The Maldives, its proven ability to protect from thinning, breakage and colour fade is unmatched. As a leave-in styling product, it’s the year-round go-to for soft frizz-free waves.”
Protecting your hair extensions on holiday
“When it comes to protecting the actual hair on the extension from chlorinated or sea water, I would recommend wetting your entire head with clean water and spraying with leave-in conditioner, followed by plaiting or tying it up to keep it out of the way and avoid any knots or matting.”
Nicky continues, “Another problem you may face with extensions is that the actual bond or tape may lose integrity once it has been exposed to chlorine, so the only way to avoid this is to limit submerging your head under water.”
How to protect coarse or greying hair on holiday
“If you have grey hair then you must be extra diligent with your hair care protection. As grey hair has less melanin, it’s more vulnerable to UV which can leave it super brittle and porous. Grey hair can also be left with a slight yellow tinge on the top layer so it’s essential to apply protective products or even wear a hat if you can.”
Recommended frequency for washing hair on holiday
“Stick to your usual wash routine whilst on holiday, with the exception of those days you take a dip in the pool or sea. Be sure to double cleanse with your shampoo to ensure you get rid of product buildup from any SPF both in your hair and along your hairline, and really work your conditioner into your mid-lengths and ends to restore moisture.”
All quotes from Nicky Clarke OBE are exclusive to https://www.vitabiotics.com/collections/hair-and-beauty-supplements
