While most makeup-related summer looks are fairly effortless and natural, hair is a totally different matter. From beach waves that require more product than beach time, to warding off the effects of chlorine-filled swimming pools, it takes a bit more effort to keep blond hair, especially the color-treated variety, looking salon-fresh all summer. We understand that the lure of happy, healthy summer hair is just too enticing not to follow suit, so we've come up with an easy-to-follow guide to keep your hair blond and beautiful all through the dog days of summer.

1. Protect the Pigment. Hours spent under UV rays can wreak serious havoc on hair, so make sure you are taking the proper protective precautions. The sun dries out locks, causes color to fade and often transforms it into a new 'do altogether. For blondes, that can mean a color change (since when did I dye my hair brass, not blond?). Combat this by covering up with a sunhat or headscarf. You can also try a hair protectant spray that helps block UV rays.

2. Prepare for Repair. In addition to the sun, salt water and chlorine can be seriously damaging to hair - they cause dehydration and eventual scalp buildup after regular exposure. If you spend time at the beach or poolside, rinse your hair with fresh water beforehand so it absorbs more of the clean stuff rather than salt or chemicals. After your splash sesh, rinse again with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner like Pureology Essential Repair Instant Repair to get some moisture into those locks.

3. Get a New Shampoo (Stat!). One reason blond tones shift to an unattractive brassy orange is product buildup. Switch to a mild shampoo specifically formulated for color-treated hair like Garnier Fructis Color Shield Complete Defense Shampoo. For immediate repair, use a clarifying shampoo - they are super-efficient in getting rid of buildup.

4: Deep Condition. Dry locks lead to brittle, breaking strands. Replenish much-needed moisture during dry summer days with regular deep-conditioning treatments. Schedule one with your hairstylist, or for those of us known to forget the salon exists in between hair color appointments (guilty), invest in an at-home product. Try Kiehl's Sunflower Color Preserving Deep Recovery Pak to keep color from fading and restore the moisture needed to keep hair fresh and shiny.

What's your biggest summer hair issue? Leave a comment to let us know!

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