Between the news that Kate Middleton and Prince William just jetted off to their honeymoon and the fancy beach party that was Chanel’s cruise collection, you’re probably ready for summer. But if you have colored or highlighted hair, you’ll want to protect your investment while you’re out in the elements.

Chlorine, sun, and salt water can all wreak havoc on a dye job, so we looked for advice from our favorite hair expert, stylist Chris Lospalluto from the Sally Hershberger salon here in NYC.

He told us that oxidation, which is a chemical reaction that changes the color, is the biggest problem. Both chlorine and sun can cause oxidation, but chlorine is the biggest enemy of colored hair. It can turn blonde hair the dreaded green and can give an ashy hue to brunette hair. Prevention is the best thing you can do so you don’t have to deal with the aftermath of the evil process of oxidation.

The best preventative measure? “Coat your hair with SOMETHING,” Chris told us. Ideas?
-Before you go in the pool put in a leave-in conditioner. There’s no need for expensive brands.
-If you don’t have anything else available, coat hair with fresh water, and make sure it’s really wet. The water soaks in so hair won’t be as absorbent to chlorine.
-Argan oil is another option. It’s light and clear, and will protect without affecting the color.

And what about if you leave the pool and realize your hair is the color of grass? According to Chris, if it’s “very” green you have to get professional help. And if you experienced fading, don’t try to re-dye it–your hair will be porous and hold the dye unevenly.

There are some home remedies floating around out there, with reported mixed results:

1) Baking soda: Mix w/shampoo, lather in hair, let sit for 10-15 minutes.
2) Coca-Cola: This is possibly an old wives tale but it intrigues us.
3) Crush aspirin in water and pour on head.

(Seriously, though. Just go to your salon to get it fixed.)

Here are some product recommendations for before and after you and your hair brave the outdoors:

-ColoristCure by the Marie Robinson Salon: You should ideally wait until after a beach vacation to color your hair, but if you can’t, this little treatment will do the trick. A week after you color your hair, apply a packet of this super-enriching conditioner, leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse. It will strengthen hair and make it less porous, thus protecting it from the damaging effects of seawater and chlorine. ($75 for four treatments)

-ActivAroma pure argan oil: ActivAroma is a newly launched line of argan oil products. The plain argan oil is great, and they also have a line of oils for treating post-sun skin. ($55 for a 2 ounce bottle)

-Kerastase Soleil: A whole line of sun care products for every hair woe. ($35-$60)

-Aveda Sun Care After Sun Hair Masque: Great to use as a regular deep conditioner, even if you haven’t been out abusing your head. ($26)

-Ouidad Sun & Sport Leave-In Spray: An oldie but a goodie. Ouidad makes products for curly hair, but this protective spray is perfect for anyone. ($20)

Now go out and have fun, and don’t forget your sun hat!