How to protect your hair in under 10 minutes, according to a leading hairstylist

If you’re time-poor at the best of times, summer (aka the party season) can be a real battlefield. “The main damage I see to hair during and after summer is dehydration, which is mostly due to excess exposure to the sun, wind, salt water and humidity,” says celebrity hairstylist and Pantene Hair Ambassador Remington Schulz. With so many events, activities and festivities held at this time of year, taking time out to care for your hair can seem like a long shot. The twist: this is exactly the time we need our hair to look its best.

With the help of Remington, we’ve put together these expert ways to protect your hair this summer, without committing too much time to the cause. You can thank us later.

WHEN YOU HAVE 10 MINUTES TO SPARE…

Find a go-to updo style to master. “A super-sleek bun or summer-inspired braid will hold your hair in place, and keep it looking fresh all day,” says Remington. 

WHEN YOU HAVE FIVE MINUTES TO SPARE…

Five minutes doesn’t sound like much time, but it can have a big impact. “When it comes to summer weather, preparation is key,” says Remington. The good news: proper prep doesn’t need to take forever. Before taking a dip in the ocean, “Try coating your ends with a serum or natural oil such as coconut. Because water and oil don’t mix, the oil will act as a barrier and prevent the salt water from drying out your hair.” Then, sit back on the beach, and let your locks enjoy a quick five with the oil while you warm up in the sun.

While we’re on the topic of swimming, Remington says that wetting your hair thoroughly before diving in the pool will also minimise chlorine absorption. “Anyone with coloured hair should also rinse it immediately after swimming,” he says. “Doing this will flush away all the unwanted (and damaging!) chemicals.”

WHEN YOU HAVE THREE MINUTES TO SPARE...

Protection is important, but you also need to use products that will repair your hair from damage. “Nourishing your hair with the right products is the best way to repair any summer damage,” says Remington. And the best part? It only takes a few minutes. Three, to be exact. “The Pantene Pro-V 3 Minute Miracle Daily Moisture Renewal Conditioner is so simple to add to your haircare routine, and works quickly to repair both environmental and heat-styling damage,” he says. “It’s so great because it really moisturises your hair while leaving it feeling noticeably soft, looking healthy and shiny, too.” With the ability to repair three months worth of damage in just three minutes, you’ve got no excuse for bad hair.

“During summer, it’s so important to choose products that are tailored to your specific hair concerns,” says Remington. For coloured hair that is prone to discolouration from salt water and chlorine, use the Pantene Pro-V Colour Protection Shampoo and follow up with the 3 Minute Miracle Colour Protection Conditioner. “This formula adds shine to the outer layer to make your hair colour more vibrant and long-lasting,” he says.

For hair that’s dry and brittle from sun exposure and humidity, the Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo and 3 Minute Miracle Daily Moisture Renewal Conditioner when used regularly, will “provide constant moisture, ensuring your hair remains healthy throughout the warmer months,” says Remington.

For hair that is damaged from breakage, Remington says the Pantene Pro-V Ultimate 10 Repair & Protect Shampoo and 3 Minute Miracle Repair & Protect Conditioner “will help seal the hair cuticles and nourish them right down to the core,” resulting in healthier, protected hair.

WHEN YOU ONLY HAVE 30 SECONDS TO SPARE...

A little effort can go a looong way, especially when we’re talking about hair protection. Even the smallest gesture – such as popping on a hat or scarf when you’re outside – can protect it from the sun and ward against colour fading.

Finally, take a moment to reconsider the humble ponytail. Tying your hair back too tightly puts an extreme amount of pressure on the hairline, which can damage the hair follicles to the point that they fall out, leading to a permanent receding hairline (yikes!). Loosen up and, while you’re at it, switch to snag-free elastics, which cause much less damage in the long-term.

What do you do to look after your hair when you’ve got time? Have you learnt any tricks that can help the time-poor?