This article is from the WebMD Feature Archive

Summer Buyers' Guide: Hair Care

By Denise Mann WebMD Feature Reviewed By Brunilda  Nazario, MD This summer, go for new products that pamper and protect your hair. And don't forget a big-brimmed hat like Courtney Cox wears to protect her complexion from sun damage (and the paparazzi).

Sunglasses | Sunscreens | Sunless Tanners | Lip Protection | Hair Care | Clothing & Sandals

Riding the newest wave in summer hair care are sprays, shampoos, and conditioners that contain UV filters -- perfect for the summer months.

"With sun damage and exposure, hair can become more brittle. It can also become discolored with chlorine, especially for those who color their hair," says Ellen Marmur, MD, chief of dermatologic and cosmetic surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. "There are extra-strong products to remove chlorine and remoisturize the hair and protect it from breaking, which I think it are worth it."

Parsol SLX is a silicone-based product. It is purported to fight the harsh effects of UV rays that can cause color to fade and hair to break. At the same time, it conditions and moisturizes hair. Look for it to appear in more and more products.

Also, leave-in conditioner or styling crèmes are useful even if you haven't shampooed your hair. They provide extra moisturizing after you've spent a day in the summer sun. Above all, don't forget to wear a hat. From straw cowboy hats and sporty visors to your favorite team's baseball cap, hats with broad rims are stylish this season. They also protect the face from the sun. "Find one you like that fits your face and wear it," says Bruce E. Katz, MD, medical director of the JUVA Skin and Laser Center in New York City.

Published May 2005.
Medically updated July 2008.

SOURCES: Ellen Marmur, MD, chief of dermatologic and cosmetic surgery, Mount Sinai Medical Center. New York City. Bruce E. Katz, MD, medical director, JUVA Skin and Laser Center, New York City.

Print Friendly Version          Email a Friend

Are You a Mosquito Magnet? Read more in the Skin & Beauty Health Center Keep your skin in shape with tips from other members. Read the top health news of the day. Get more Skin & Beauty news.