3 EASY STYLING HACKS FOR EFFORTLESS BEACH HAIR

For some, time spent in the ocean delivers superb ‘beach hair’ – while, for others, it falls frustratingly short. Here, MALENA HARBERS discovers how to make hair that’s been saturated in salt water or soaked in chlorine look its best


Do the prep work
In reality, all hair types or textures can look a bit of a mess at the beach if hair is left to do its own thing. Salt water, chlorine and UV rays strip it of its natural oils and lift the protective cuticle on the outer layer of your hair, creating a textured effect, but also causing it to feel rough. What’s more, “Most hair damage is the result of going from wet to dry, and harsh chlorine and salt water can add stress to this process,” says A-list hair stylist James Pecis. If you plan to go for a dip, you’ll need to take preventative action. Start by dousing your hair in fresh water – even a quick splash from a bottle will do. Since your hair can only absorb so much, it will soak up less of the chlorinated or salty water. “Whatever your hair texture, keep the mid-lengths to ends coated with an oil or a leave-in conditioner when swimming,” says Pecis. Once out, rinse your hair in cool, fresh water again. This will help to flatten the hair cuticle, making it look instantly smoother and shinier. For even more resilience against the assaults of a summer swim, Pecis recommends a weekly deep-clean with a clarifying shampoo, followed by a deep conditioner or hair mask for root-to-tip nourishment.


Embrace the wet look
The simplest way to ensure good hair is to keep your strands loose and wet and slick them back with a wide-toothed comb. This requires minimal effort and works best for straight to wavy hair types. “Depending on its texture, there are different ways to prevent hair from looking matted,” says Pecis. “For waves and curls, add a hydrating oil to give hair luster.” Straighter hair types will benefit from a texturizing spray. “Mist it from mid-lengths to ends to create shine and definition.” Avoid salt sprays, as your hair will likely already contain a good amount of it. Instead, opt for a UV hair-protection mist, which will prevent the strong summer sun from fading color and zapping moisture, while adding some texture and hold to longer hair. Once your hair begins to dry, a dusting of dry shampoo will boost flat roots and you can spot-treat errant flyaways with an anti-humidity spray, designed to keep frizz at bay.


Opt for a protective style
“If you have curly or coily hair and you’re spending a lot of time in the pool or at the beach, I would suggest wearing your hair in a protective style,” says Pecis. Curly and coily hair types are dry by default, and these styles shield strands from harsh environmental aggressors like UV rays and humidity, as well as drying sea salt and chlorine. “Apply a leave-in conditioner to wet hair before braiding it or twisting it into knots.” Braiding requires some skill, though, so if you have small coils, a high ponytail secured at the crown of your head is even easier to style. Simply smooth a layer of oil over loose ends for added hydrating protection.


Add an accessory
The right hair accessory can make any sun-soaked hairstyle look instantly more polished, so it’s a great option to keep in your beach bag to look more pulled together when heading to the bar. Since hair is more prone to damage when wet, stick to natural materials like silk, cotton and leather, which are less likely to snag or pull fragile strands. A leather headband is an easy and universally flattering addition to any wet-look style, or use a bright silk scarf to cover your hair, leaving the ends to hang loose – it’s super-simple to do and will prevent sun damage and your color from fading. For longer lengths, create a deep side parting before tying hair back into a low ponytail and securing it with a thin scarf or oversized scrunchie. Or, wrap either around a tight top knot to keep your hair off your neck and shoulders on especially sticky beach days.