While we’ve been yearning for warmer weather and have received nothing but cold and rain in return–we can still look forward to sunnier days.

Asides from the winter’s harsh weather, the summer has its downfalls too.

If you plan on coloring or bleaching your hair, it might be a good idea to get it done now. Sunlight is the main source of ultraviolet rays which can harm the hair shaft and cause loss of hair protein. The more you prolong your hair’s exposure to the sun, the more UVA and UVB rays penetrate the cuticle. Asides from the science part of it, sun damage can also result in dry and brittle hair, which leads to split ends.

Everyone hates split ends! However, some people don’t get rid of them to preserve length, or at least the illusion of it. Holding on to dead ends is the same as holding on to a dead-end relationship–it’s just weighing you down. Do your hair a favor and trim those split ends before summer starts so your curls can be healthy and even.

If you think it might be time for the big chop, I’m here to support you. Many fear the “big chop” because they despise short hair and look at it as a setback to their hair’s length. If it’s a setback, then the comeback is about to be stronger. Going for a big chop is the first step of transitioning and the most rewarding. You get a fresh start and get the opportunity to set the tone for your hair. Don’t know where to start? Book an appointment today with any of the following specialized curly hair salons:

• Curls on 5th, located in Manhattan, New York (@curlson5th on Instagram)
• Curl Evolution, located in Babylon, Long Island (@curl_evolution on Instagram)
• Utopia Salon, located in Westfield, New Jersey (@utopia_salon_nj_ on Instagram)
• City Curl Studio, located in Staten Island, New York (@citycurlstudio on Instagram)

Colors are always fun and even funner when they’re on your hair. If you’ve known me since the first time my mom let me dye my hair, I can never settle for my virgin hair! However, those sentiments have changed and I do plan on growing out my blonde and staying with my natural hair color for a while (let’s see how long that lasts). If you’re itching for a new color, it is recommended you conduct intensive research on the salon and the products they use to preserve your curl pattern (this is the most important thing to consider!). Luckily, I’ve never had much of an issue when chemically processing my curls except for a few split ends that I easily got rid of. It’s a scary thought to think about my curls falling flat due to over processing them.

Consider incorporating 1-2 deep conditioning sessions per week to increase your hair’s hydration and moisture. It’s very easy to tell when your curls haven’t been deep conditioned and the sun will expose that! I usually deep condition on Saturdays for about 30 minutes to an hour (5 minutes if I’m in an extreme rush, although that’s the time the creators of the hair masque I use, recommend). I apply my Savannah Hair Therapy Shea Butter Treatment Masque hair masque after shampooing and leave it in while I’m wearing a plastic cap under the hair dryer. If you don’t have a hair dryer at home, consider using a blower, steamer or close your bathroom doors and leave the water on the highest temperature and allow the steam to do its job. Once you’re done, rinse off the hair masque, apply conditioner and proceed to detangle. If you don’t have time to deep condition twice a week, once is totally fine. Feel free to leave your deep conditioning masque overnight as well.

Protective styles are a good alternative to sporting your curls but they can be just as damaging. Box braids/twists are very popular protective styles but if done too tight or left in for too long (3 weeks plus), they can be detrimental to your hair. Try not to get them done so tight or so small so you can have flexibility with them. Slick-back hairstyles are also popular but by constantly brushing your hair, using gel and pulling it back tightly, you’re causing tension to your scalp, promoting breakage and hiding your natural curls! If you don’t want to deal with your curls all the time, opt for looser protective hairstyles or throw on a CurlCap–a baseball cap for every curl pattern.

Most of you already have tropical vacations, pool parties and beach visits planned for the summer–just like exposing your hair to the sun, avoid exposing it to chlorine and/or salt water just as much. According to LiveAbout.com, anyone who exposes their hair to chlorinated water risks damage, but those with: color treated hair, chemically treated hair, dry hair, thin hair and previously damaged hair are the most at risk. These hair conditions are more likely to absorb chemicals and discoloration. Before jumping into that pool, over saturate your hair with water, add deep conditioner or even coconut oil to protect your hair’s shaft. If you absolutely want to avoid getting your hair wet, opt for a swim cap or simply keep your hair out of the water. The choice is yours but if you do decide to take the plunge, wash your hair afterwards and deep condition. Wet hair is very sensitive and prone to breakage.

Make your hair a priority but don’t forget to enjoy your summer, either. Listen to your hair and if it’s crying for moisture–it’s because it needs it!

While there are many other hair alternatives such as wigs, nothing feels more liberating than being able to sport and enjoy your natural hair.