. Wear hats or scarves whenever possible to protect your hair, but you can also buy conditioners now that have sunscreen included. In a pinch you can put regular sunscreen on your hair, but wash it out when you return home. At least rub in sunscreen on any part of your scalp that is showing to avoid burning.

Wet your hair down before swimming--it can only soak up so much moisture and it's better to start with wet hair, so you won't take in as much chlorine or salt water. Afterwards shower off and use a good conditioner, and of course lotion on your skin.

If your hair is already dry don't apply lemon juice before going out in the sun. Check that your hair products don't contain alcohol that can also be drying.

Drink plenty of water in the summer. It hydrates all parts of your body and is very important to your health!

Treat your hair more gently in the summer, trim often, use a good shampoo and don't let the water get too hot... warm water is good for the hair and skin. Try the following homemade rinses. As your hair dries the vinegar smell will fade. I make herbal vinegars instead of using plain vinegar. You can use lavender, chamomile flowers, calendula petals, rosemary, lemon herbs such as lemon balm, lemon verbena or lemon thyme. Pour the vinegar over the herbs in a glass or plastic container (I reuse jars) and allow to set for 3-4 weeks, or bring the vinegar just to the boiling stage and remove from the heat, then pour over the herbs. You can use this more quickly, about a week or two. The recipes below can be used immediately.

1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

3 cups distilled water

Combine and use as a final rinse on hair.

Another rinse:

1 cup water

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 handful of fresh mint leaves

Bring all the ingredients JUST to a boil in a non-aluminum pan. Strain and pour into a jar. Massage solution into the scalp, and allow it dry without rinsing out.

About the Author

Brenda Hyde is a freelance writer, editor, herb gardener and mother to three children. For more herb recipes and tips visit The Garden Path

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