Hair advice for holidays

From dealing with ‘beach hair’ to packing the right products, answers to all your holiday hair questions from the experts. By Eve Cameron

Q Should I change my normal shampoo and conditioner when I go on holiday?

 

A “It’s probably better – but not essential – to use a slightly more moisturising conditioner when on holiday,” says leading trichologist Philip Kingsley, adding, “The shampoo you use can remain the same.”

 

However, as Dr Raniero De Stasio, scientific director at L’Oréal UK and Ireland, points out, it could be that you are washing your hair more frequently when you’re on holiday and, as a result, you may find that your everyday shampoo and conditioner will leave your hair feeling heavy. If that’s the case for you, try switching to a lightweight formulation such as L’Oréal Paris Elvive Smooth-Intense Light and the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Nutri-Gloss Light range of products, from £2.96. 

 

 Q My hair gets in an awful condition on holiday. Is it because of the chlorine in the pool?

 

A According to Dr Steve Shiel, scientific communications manager at Procter & Gamble, the problem with swimming pools is, in fact, not the chlorine but the metal ions that are used to prevent algae forming. These can get into the hair fibre and cause the colour to take on a green hue.

 

L’Oréal’s Dr Raniero De Stasio explains that the problem most visibly affects blonde hair, as there is little pigment there to mask the green tinge. If the hair has been bleached blonde the effect is even more pronounced, as damaged hair is more porous, allowing for greater water absorbency. The best way to prevent this is to use shampoo and conditioner immediately after swimming. Many hair experts also suggest that a rinse with tomato juice will combat hair that’s already showing signs of discoloration.

 

“The issue with seawater is that it crystallises on the hair’s surface,” says Dr Steve Shiel, which then leaves a film, making hair harder to manage. If your hair is bleached, seawater can crystallise within the hair fibre, which weakens its structure. As well as shampooing and conditioning after a dip in the ocean, he advises rinsing hair in fresh water before swimming, as wet hair offers some protection. Even better, pop on conditioner and don a swimming cap – that way, you can protect and treat your hair at the same time. 

 

Q Should I use straightening irons on holiday, or will it be more damaging than usual?

 

A All damage is cumulative, says Dr Steve Shiel. Concentrated damage, for example, on a two-week holiday, during which UV is breaking down the protein of hair, saltwater is weakening its structure and then straighteners are used (perhaps every night before going out) will all stress the hair more – and the more stressed it is, the more vulnerable it is to damage. The key, therefore, is damage limitation, which means protecting it, as you would your skin on holiday, and stepping up the conditioning treatments.

Products to try

Try using Philip Kingsley Preen Cream, £16, before straightening to protect your hair. Alternatively, use Andrew Collinge Heat Defence range of products, from £3.99, which are also highly effective.

 

Q Some women look so chic on the beach. How can I make my hair look just as good?

 

A Try applying a protective treatment such as Michael Van Clarke VC711 Deep Treatment, £15. Wavy hair dries well with it and creates a tousled beach-babe look, while straight hair can be slicked back and pinned. Or, if you prefer, put your hair in a ponytail with the ends wrapped into a knot with a small fabric headscarf. As well as looking stylish, it will also protect your hair from the sun.

 

For more great summer hair advice, click here