Gurrrrl, you better get your hair did up right.  The summer is fast approaching and we are all going to pop up out of our holes like Punxsutawney Phil.  So, it’s time to do some summertime maintenance and part of that starts at the root… or your hair.  We all love the look of sunkissed hair, but paying for it in salons can be a bit pricey.  How can you achieve that beachy blonde surfer girl hair without breaking the bank?  Easy.  With a few items you can pick up at the store. (FYI: I am NOT talking about Sun-In either.  Ugh.. the misery of my hair that 7th grade summer…).

Make Lemonade: I’m fairly certain every girl on the planet has probably tried this little summertime trick, but in case you have not, here’s how to turn lemons in to gorgeous golden hair.

While lounging pool or beachside (or just while puttering around outside), fill a spray bottle with concentrated (and by concentrated I mean fresh squeezed) lemon juice and spritz on your hair.  Um, I shouldn’t have to tell you to avoid your eyes— but I will anyway: AVOID CONTACT WITH YOUR PRETTY PEEPERS.  Some people also add a little olive oil to the mix to add some nutrition to your strands while lightening them.

I’m fortunate enough to have my very own Meyers Lemon tree in my yard… so check back in mid August to see whether I’ve made more  hair color than lemonade this summer…

Color with Chamomile: If you’ve already gone down the lemon route or you just have something against lemons in general, another little trick for ladies with lighter locks is using this chamomile concoction.  *Bonus: You can also make yourself a little soothing tea while you wait.

  • Place 1 cup camomile flowers into an enamel pot with 2 cups of boiling water.
  • Lower the heat to just under boiling and simmer for half an hour.
  • Let the infusion sit for 3 hours.
  • Strain the tea with a nylon mesh strainer, and pour it over your head several times, catching it into a pot or bowl as you pour.

Cinnamon Bun: I mean, I have never tried this one, but it sounds delicious.

  • Combine cinnamon powder and hair conditioner in a one to one mixture. The amount you will need depends on the length of your hair; however, you should have enough to evenly coat your locks from root to tip.
  • Wet your hair and wring out the excess water. Comb your hair carefully to release any tangles which may prevent even distribution of the cinnamon and conditioner.
  • Apply the cinnamon and conditioner mixture evenly to your hair, mixing an extra batch if necessary. While you can’t use too much, if you use to little your lightening will end up uneven and streaky. You can comb through your hair periodically to help move the cinnamon and conditioner evenly throughout.
  • Gather your hair in a bun and secure it with a hair clip. Cover your head with a shower cap and leave the cinnamon and conditioner in your hair overnight. Rinse the mixture from your hair in the morning, shampooing as normal. If you would like to lighten your hair a bit more, apply the mixture again with no worry about damaging your hair.

If all else fails, you will have a delicious recipe for tea.  Chamomile + lemon + cinnamon?  Pass me a crumpet, please.

xx,

WhyDid

 

Photo via Murray Mitchell