Visions of flirty, tousled hair that shines with summer glam remain pretty much relegated to the pages of magazines when one has to contend with all the grime and heat in the city. And no, in this case, you definitely won’t be able to undo the damage with just a wash-and-go routine. Rapunzelesque locks demand so much more. With a bit of effort, the route to hair heaven is not that hard to come by.

Cool Mane
“During summer, hair starts looking dull and can get pretty greasy. I’d suggest washing hair every alternate day, depending on the texture and applying a conditioner that can be left on overnight,” explains Savio Fernandes, Kérastase Ambassador for the Jean-Claude Biguine – House of Beauty. A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and water, proper sleep and exercise goes a long way in maintaining healthy hair. Spinach and broccoli help improve hair growth and should be part of your diet. Vitamin E is good for hair, too, says Shailesh Moolya, salon director, Juice Hair and Beauty.

Dermatologist, Dr Apratim Geol suggests switching over to an ultra-mild shampoo and using an anti-dandruff shampoo at least once a week. Dr Preeti Savardekar, dermatologist, Kaya Skin Clinic recommends the very mild Kaya Nourishing shampoo, while Hyacinth Dsouza, Friseur Service Manager, Wella India says Wella’s SP Regulate shampoo can help soothe greasy scalps. In addition, use a leave-in conditioner that can be sprayed on before you leave the house to protect against sun damage. Tigi’s Fast Fix works as both a conditioner and sun-protection product, advises Moolya. Dsouza cautions against swimming without using a leave-in conditioner as the chlorine present in water depletes hair of moisture leaving it lifeless.

A Cut Above
Fernandes recommends getting an asymmetrical bob that is stylish yet easy to manage. “This cut is very trendy; it can fit any kind of style and outfit whether sporty, casual, funky, classy or retro. It crosses boundaries of time and age and can be adapted to any kind of face, except maybe big, round ones,” he says. But if short hair isn’t an option then ensure you get regular trims, advises Goel. Updos work well for this weather but use elastic bands that are covered with fabric to avoid damage when tying up long hair.