Life Goes Strong asked expert hair stylist Donna Dellaero* for her tips on looking good and traveling with better hair. Donna dispelled some common myths and misperceptions:
MYTH 1- Don't Bother to Get a Haircut
Don't make this mistake. Scheduling a haircut a week or two before your trip is the most important thing you can do to look and feel good. With a recent cut, your hair will be easier to style and maintain when you're on the road. If your hair is curly, getting a Keratin treatment will make it easier to handle, especially in humid climates.
MYTH 2 - Avoid Getting Hair Color Before a Trip
Many women skip getting base color before a trip, especially when they're headed to a seaside location. They reason that it's best to wait until they return because of the time and expense involved. Au contraire: Hair that has been recently colored has more body and looks infinitely better than having a gray stripe of roots down the middle that will need to be addressed as soon as you unpack.
MYTH 3 -Don't Bring Your Own Shampoo and Conditioner
With TSA security 3-1-1 requirements, it is a bit of a hassle to travel with extra liquids. It's also tempting to experiment with the pretty little bottles of shampoo and conditioner provided at upscale hotels and resorts. But it is always prudent to take along the products you know and use at home to avoid surprises. If you can't resist temptation, take home the ones from your hotel to try after your return.
MYTH 4 - Be Sure to Buy Sun Products for Your Hair
It isn't necessary to use fancy (and expensive) products that are marketed to protect your hair from the sun. Although the sun may lighten your hair, whether the color is natural or treated, it won't harm it. If your hair is colored-treated, using a good conditioner will offer you the same protection.
MYTH 5 - Avoid Swimming at All Costs
Salt water has no effect on your hair. Although the chlorine used in pools can be particularly harsh on bleached or highlighted hair, blonds can still have fun. Don't let fear of chlorine keep you out of the water. But do try to wash your hair soon after your swim. (Club soda is a wonderful antidote if you want to neutralize any effects of chlorine.)
MYTH 6 - Never Get Your Hair Cut Abroad
If you are traveling to Paris, Milan, London or New York, have fun with it. Getting a new hairdo or trendy color can be a memorable experience. But, otherwise, why waste your precious vacation sitting inside a hair salon?
*Donna Dellaero is the owner of Donna Hair Design in Chappaqua, New York.
