RL: Why is tropical life so hard on hair?

SP: Island life is good for the soul, but sun, salt water and chlorine all conspire to ruin our hair. Salt and chlorine remove moisture from strands, while UV rays breakdown keratin. An essential protein, keratin gives strands structural strength that when damaged causes the hair shaft to weaken and fray. That’s when you get frizzy, dull looking hair.

The good news is you can fix damaged, porous hair. At Vintage we have specifically designed treatments to improve sun-parched, over-processed hair.

Our Keratin Treatment restores tresses to their original health by sealing in moisture and eliminating frizz. Those with straight hair get straighter hair. Those with wavy or curly hair get frizz-free locks.

The Olaplex Treatment is another conditioning treatment that targets the sulphur bonds so you can regain a silky mane.

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TIPS & TRICKS

Brass Off  First neutralise brassiness with a toner, then wash with anti-brass shampoos to keep locks from turning orange, and don’t suds up daily. Too frequent washing can strip hair of its natural oils resulting in dull, lacklustre locks.

Hats On Wear a hat or scarf when in direct sunlight to prevent hair from becoming brittle and colour from fading.

Air Out Allow hair to air dry as long and as much as possible. Heat styling tools weaken the shaft and reduce shine and elasticity. Better yet, apply a heat-protector product before using these devices.

Lather Up Apply deep conditioning hair masques to counteract the drying effects of the sun. Then get outside and let the sun’s warmth help it soak in. Heat allows the hair’s cuticle to open so the conditioner can better penetrate the hair shaft.

Get Wet Soak hair with fresh water before jumping in the pool or ocean. Wetting hair reduces the depth chlorine and salt can penetrate the shaft.

Cut Loose Get regular trims (every four to six weeks) so split ends don’t travel up the shaft and further damage hair.