Summer can be brutal on your hair, especially when you spend most of your time at the beach. Exposure to direct sunlight makes your strands more vulnerable to the sun’s UV rays, which can lead to dull, discolored, and brittle hair. Worse, saltwater and chlorine can aggravate the damage.

However, this is no reason for you to cancel your trips to the beach. If you want to enjoy the best of the season and keep your hair protected, take note of the following tips:

1. Plan your travel dates.

Check the weather forecast for days when the temperature won't be so high. Use an umbrella from noon to 3 p.m., when the sun's rays are most harsh.  

2. Take a wide-brimmed hat with you.

It's not just a fancy fashion accessory—something as simple as a wide-brimmed hat can play a big part in keeping your hair and face protected from the sun.

3. Take a shower before you jump into the pool or the ocean.

Chlorine and saltwater can strip your hair of its natural protective oils, giving you dull and brittle strands. To protect your hair, wet your strands thoroughly to reduce their capacity of absorbing salt water or chlorine. 

4. Be proactive about your haircare regimen.

Summer is the best time to improve your haircare routine. To help protect your locks from the sun's UV rays, saltwater, and chlorine, choose products that can help make your hair summer strong. 

The new limited-edition Pantene UV Rescue Shampoo and 3 Minute Miracle is a good summer haircare essential. The shampoo has Pro-V formula that restores the hair's health and shine by clearing dirt and grime without stripping the strand's natural oils. Pair it with the 3 Minute Miracle Conditioner, which contains histidine that penetrates deep into the strand's core and leaves a thin, protective shield to protect the hair from UV damage. This hair care duo will not leave your hair feeling greasy and give you fresh, smooth, and summer-ready hair.

Pro tip: If you hate how dry and brittle your hair can be after swimming at the beach, try using the new limited-edition Pantene UV Rescue 3 Minute Miracle Conditioner before taking a dip. Apply it from root to tip to keep your hair smooth and moisturized even after spending all day by the sea. Get hair stronger than the sun!

For more tips on how to protect your hair, follow Pantene on Facebook.