Though on the pricier side for a drugstore-bought hair mask, this one is worth every penny, especially since it will last you the better part of summer. Brown leaves this mask in her hair while she's out in the sun for two reasons: to protect it from the sun's rays and to utilize the sun's heat to help open the cuticle, allowing the mask to penetrate throughout. The natural heat provides the same benefits as a heat lamp at your salon. "This mask will also protect you from salt water or harsh pool chemicals, so your hair won't dry out as much without that extra layer of protection," she says. "Moisture is so important for your hair in the summertime, so even if you don't want to use it through the day like I do, you can use masks as intended and leave on and then rinse it out."
You know that sunscreen is an important staple in your summer routine (as well as year-round—even on cloudy days!) so you shouldn't take choosing the right brand and SPF level lightly. Sondriel, expert curly hair stylist and colorist, takes things one step further by selecting a sunscreen that's ideal for hair protection too. Her go-to is this lotion from CeraVe. "The key to using sunscreen to protect your hair is to choose a lightweight, oil-free, waterproof brand," she says. "Apply about a quarter size to your ends to help protect your hair from drying out and your color from fading while you're in and out of the pool." Tip: When you get out of the water, rinse your hair out with bottled water and reapply your daily conditioner and detangler.
The key to choosing the right shampoo for summer is to find a brand that helps remove dulling residue caused by chlorine, saltwater and other hairstyling products containing chemicals, says Nelson Chan, celebrity hairstylist and owner of Nelson J Natural Salon in Beverly Hills. "This non-irritating, top-rated clarifying shampoo cleans your hair and instantly rinses away residue," he says. "It's made for all hair types and is specially formulated for once-a-week use to clear out residue that can build up, especially in summer." This product is also ideal for use before coloring or any deep conditioning treatment, he adds.
There's no denying that baby pink is a great choice for summer, especially once you've acquired a little tan. "I absolutely love this color on my nails! When I have this nude pink on, I can't stress to you how many clients compliment my nails," says Julie Michaud, owner and founder of Prettyology in Boston. When she's not wearing Mademoiselle, she opts for a turquoise hue, like this one from Essie's new seaglass collection. "It's a light blue with purple and white iridescence to it—love it!"
When it comes to foundation, Michaud doesn't only shop department stores. However, since she has very oily skin, finding something less expensive that will last her the entire day is challenging. "NYX Total Control is my hero this summer because it allows me to have a sheer-full coverage throughout the day," she says. "I usually prefer Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer, $45, but on warmer days, I prefer to wear something even lighter and, if I am going out, I can just add a little more and look like I have a fresh face!" She always recommends wearing SPF underneath but says a primer is not always a necessity.
