GREENSBORO, N.C. — Summer brings beach days, poolside lounging, and outdoor fun. While we enjoy the sun, our children’s hair often suffers. Consumer Reports offers tips for keeping all hair types healthy in the sun.
“Hydration is key to maintaining your child’s hair health this summer. Just as the sun can damage your child’s skin, it can harm their hair too,” said Emely Martinez, a stylist at Miss Rizos Salon.
Chlorine from pools, saltwater, and sweat can make hair dry and brittle. Using a leave-in treatment after washing can help.
Stylists also recommend trimming your child’s hair to keep it smooth and free of knots. For curly or textured hair, a silk or satin pillowcase can help retain moisture.
The right tools can also make a difference. Consumer Reports tested detangling brushes that can manage tangles without tears.
The Bestool Detangle Brush, costing about $10, was the top pick for curly hair due to its ease of use and comfortable grip.
The Olivia Garden Fingerbrush, around $25, was a close second. Evaluators praised its ballpoint tips for providing a soothing scalp massage.
For straight hair, the Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler, priced at about $15, was the top choice. It features patented two-tiered teeth technology and a comfortable handle.
Another summer issue for children’s hair is head lice. The CDC estimates that between 6 and 12 million children ages 3 to 11 get head lice every year in the U.S.
“One of the best methods for many kids is combing out lice from wet hair, as long as the hair can tolerate it. If not, prescription topical Spinosad or over-the-counter topical Ivermectin are effective,” said Catherine Roberts of Consumer Reports.
Children with curly or Afro-textured hair can benefit from protective styles like braids and twists to help prevent lice.
