TAME THOSE SUMMER TRESSES

Put the convertible top down, grab a towel and head to the pool. Why not? Summer's here.

Unfortunately, for many, summer brings dry, brittle hair, sunburned scalps and the "frizzies." Hair requires extra care to keep it shiny and healthy this time of year. And that goes especially if you plan on swimming.

"Chlorine just eats hair up," said Gary Stroder of Gary and Company Hair Designers. "Using a pre-conditioner and wetting hair before swimming will slow down chlorine adsorption."

It's also important to wash the hair after swimming. Showers are available at most public pools. Just a water rinse will help, but shampooing is even better.

"You should use a special shampoo to remove chlorine," said Linda Deimund of Great Looks Hair Design. She also emphasized the importance of wetting the hair before swimming in chlorinated water.

"Hair can only absorb so much and if it has already absorbed a liquid, it will absorb less chlorine," she said.

Those with artificially curled or colored hair are at the greatest risk from the summer sun. The ideal solution is to wear a hat, but not many women seem to want to do that. An alternative solution is to use hair care products including conditioners, gels and hairsprays that offer UV protection.

Adults are not the only ones at risk when it comes to sun-damaged hair.

"You wouldn't believe the number of children we see here with damaged hair," said Stroder.

Children like to swim for a while and then run around and play. The hair dries during this play time and the chlorine gets locked in. Before long it's back in the pool, and the cycle repeats itself.

Swimmers are not the only ones at risk. Anyone whose hair is exposed to the sun for lengthy periods needs to take extra precautions to prevent damage.

Try giving your hair a break from the blow dryer and curling iron during the summer months. The added heat adds up to extra stress on the hair. Go for the natural look and let your hair air dry. For longer locks, try braiding the hair while it is still wet. The result is a head of gorgeous waves.

Many hair care products add body and shine, but they may not be adding needed moisture. Be sure to read all labels carefully.

"Moisture must be added to the hair internally," Deimund said. Products which just coat the hair shaft offer no real solution to sun-dried hair.

Naturally curly hair and summer sun and humidity often result in a case of the frizzies. Be careful of products containing silicone. They tend to just coat the hair shaft and can cause greater problems in the long run.

Help control the frizzies by trying a new hairstyle such as a knot, bun or braids. Your hair will let you know when it's having a problem. Frizzy ends are a sure sign the hair is either split, damaged or both. More frequent trims may be necessary during the summer months. You might also consider washing your hair less often to allow it to absorb more moisture.

Summer wind and water also makes hair tangle more easily. Be gentle when removing tangles and never brush your hair while it's wet. Use a wide-tooth comb and begin at the ends moving slowly toward the scalp.

Summer Hair Tips

* Wear a hat when in the sun.

* Use hair care products which offer UV protection.

* Give your hair a break from blow drying and curling irons.

* Wet hair before getting into the pool to cut down on chlorine absorption.

* Wash your hair immediately after leaving the pool.

* Use products that replenish the hair by adding moisture.

* Use a wide-tooth comb when untangling wet or windblown hair.