Dans Papers - June 1, 2007 - Skin Deep

A few weeks ago I discovered my new favorite hairdressers - Suite 303 at Hotel Chelsea in Downtown Manhattan. They were recommended by a friend and as a beauty writer I'm always looking for a new opinion and a different take on all things beauty related. So after getting a fabulous summer haircut, I decided to interview Nacki, my stylist, and April Barton, the owner of Suite 303. My thinking was that even though they're not available in the Hamptons, they could impart their wisdom to my readers. Then what do you know, half way through the interview, April told me something that might just rock your world - if you're anywhere near Montauk from June on, you could be tempted to cheat on your year-round hairdresser, just for a moment. Some of the guys and gals who normally work in Manhattan at Suite 303 will be making special appearances at the surfer's pit only feet away from the beach called Ditch Plains. Yes, you may actually see hair flying as surfers and bathers leave the water. April says she loves to work with hair straight from the ocean.

But in the interest of sharing their knowledge , these are some tips and trends to keep in mind while you're at the beach this summer.

Before the summer kicks off, get a good haircut so that old damaged tresses don't take more of a beating. Some subtle summer highlights will lighten and evolve as the summer continues and aren't a major commitment and worth investing in early on. The sea, according to April, is like Jekyll and Hyde - the minerals and oils found in the ocean are amazing for our hair, but one should never let sea-drenched hair dry out. If you do, douse your locks with a conditioning product, such as Well Being by Davines, so that it remains saturated until you eventually wash your hair. Keep spray conditioners in your beach bag at all times.

For a big night out try using the texture of salt and sea water and add extra products and paste to create "big" hair - a fun trend this season that's easy to create after a day at the beach. Try After Beach Paste, also by Davines.

If you don't have the time or energy to wash your hair after a hard day lying at the beach, or your housemates beat you to the shower and are now all waiting for you to get ready, bring along some dry shampoo. Not recommended for use on a regular basis, but certainly great for a quick fix and some extra zing to your 'do.

Another trend this season is the permanent wave. Far from your grandmother's perm, these treatments have evolved and look natural. I'm yet to be convinced myself, but that's what the experts tell me, so it's worth investigating.

If you're not game for a perm because, after all, a perm is PERManent, than invest in heated rollers for a loose, curled sexy look. Big hair is in!

For men, forget the longhaired beach bum look. The new surfer look is slick and classic. The 1950s chic surfer is the trend this season. Think Darren from I Dream of Genie. Ladies are also channeling the same era with high ponytails, hair scarves, headbands and other hair accessories. Additionally, polka dots are popular, too.

Which brings me back to that summer fling that you're already pondering. Even if you're the loyal type and not up for two-timing, the 303 family still urges you to bring scarves, hats and accessories to the beach and they'll happily create a look for you, free of charge and just for fun. So don't be shy, urges April, who's all about sharing her skills while hanging at the beach. Who knew you could get a new 'do and a tan, too!

For more information call (212) 633-1011. Nacki will also be making special summer appearances at Salon M in East Hampton.