Want a new look to heat up the summer?  Whether you opt for a platinum blonde or a natural red, an added pop of color can brighten up your whole look.  But beware, with the stresses of heat and humidity, the sun and chlorine it is important to take proper care of your strands.  Here are some quick tips to help make your color lasts all season and stays as vibrant as you are:

• Protect your locks.  Spending too much time in the sun is a big reason why your new hair color is quickly fading. Luckily there are now hair sunscreen products that protect your color if you plan on being in the sun for long. A perfect product to try is Phyto Plage Protective Beach Spray.  It provides maximum sun protection with added moisturizing and softening benefits for ultimate sheen and shine.  Because it is moisturizing it is not recommended as a styling product, but is perfect for a lazy beach day when you just want to throw your hair up.

•  Clean properly.  You’ll need a special shampoo after you’ve colored your hair. Many companies have created reasonably-priced shampoos that are specifically formulated to treat dyed hair and help the color stay longer. Use Phyto Citrus Shampoo for your first five washes after your hair is color treated to keep the color locked in.  You will notice the added softness and radiance after the first wash.  It is best to get in the habit of shampooing your hair once every couple days, if you feel the need to wash more often try leaving the shampoo out and washing with only conditioner. The less you shampoo you use the longer your color will last.

• Keep cool.  Don’t wash your hair in hot water, it will cause the cuticles of your hair to break and leave it vulnerable to color fading. Instead, opt for lukewarm water at the beginning of your shower and drop the temperature to cool near the end.  Are there any other benefits of ending your shower with a cool water blast?  Yup, it improves your circulation and his good for your skin.  Give it a try.

• Chemically balanced.  There’s a reason why you don’t catch many older women splishing and splashing in the water on a hot summer day. The chlorine in swimming pools can strip away hair dye, and leave your hair looking faded and dry.  A good trick is to wet your locks with fresh water, think the shower at the beach or your shower at home, before you go into a chemically treated pool or salt water.  Wetting your hair before will help to protect from getting damaged.  Try Phyto Nectar Ultra Nourishing Oil Treatment to protect from harmful UV rays and leave your hair beautifully conditioned.

So now that you’re prepared for the summer what color are you going to go with?  Let the Color Team at Cozmo’s Hair Salon and Design Studio work their magic on your hair. Cozmo’s color team draws inspiration from nature, imagining a color palate to flatter your skin tone, eye color, lifestyle and personal attitude.  You can also purchase Phyto’s amazing line of products right at the salon.  Visit us on the web or call 732-866-0099 to book your appointment today.