3 Common Haircare Mistakes—and How to Fix Them

Heavy moisturizing ingredients (like oil and silicone) combined with humidity can make your hair look dirty, says New York City hairstylist Ted Gibson.

If long, sun-drenched afternoons at the pool or beach have left your hair dry, it's fine to use conditioner, but only on the ends.

Be judicious with treatment oils, serums, and shine sprays, which usually contain the most oil-based ingredients.

Though clarifying shampoos clean hair and scalp of residue left by chlorine, saltwater, and styling products, they also strip hair of moisture—which leads to frizz, says Gibson.

Use deep-cleansing shampoos only once a month, and wash with a gentle moisturizing formula (like Aveeno Nourish+Shine Shampoo) the rest of the time.

To prevent residue buildup, apply half a tablespoon of a light conditioner from roots to ends before jumping in the pool or ocean; the conditioner seals the hair's cuticle, creating a protective barrier.

Wet hair is very fragile. If you want to keep it off your face—and look stylish—wear a cloth headband (made of Lycra or cotton) two inches back from your hairline, says Gibson. (Goody makes fine ones.)

If you want to put your hair up, secure it in a bun with bobby pins or pull it into a loose hair tie (we like Sephora Collection Ribbon Hair Ties).