Recharged. Positive. Ready to conquer the (style) world. The only problem? The horror show that is my end-of-summer hair. Chlorine, salt water and sun wreak havoc on color treated hair. After a month of chill European living (I hardly even wore makeup, a minor miracle!). I returned with crispy, overly blonded locks with an inch of dark-root outgrowth. With a whole week until my colorist returned to the salon, I had to think fast. The challenge: rehydrate and devise some hair styles that will effectively camouflage my glaringly mismatched roots. I headed to my beauty closet.

BEAUTY TOOLBOX FOR WAYWARD POST -VACATION HAIR

HYDRATE: A super hydrating shampoo like L’oreal Everstrong Reconstruct Shampoo ($5.69) or Kerastase Masque Age Recharge Hair Mask ($60) will increase moisture and shine in the hair.

SERIOUSLY HYDRATE: If you are slicking back your hair into a ponytail, headband or bun, a leave in conditioner both moisturizes and helps to style the hair. Frederic Fekkai Essential Shea Pot de Creme Mask ($35) or Davines Authentic Replenishing Butter ($38) are best bets.

GET HIGH: To mask unsightly roots, slick hair into a chic top knot. This Conair Uptools Bun Maker Kit ($4.99) makes it super easy. To get a smoother look, work John Frieda Frizz Ease Original Hair Serum ($8.99) through hair pre-styling. It reduces frizz and adds polish.

ROOT RESCUE: If you must wear hair down, L’oreal Root Rescue ($6.99)will temporarily cover gray hair and/or mismatched roots. It comes in numerous shades. Also, a crooked part will help to disguise the outgrowth.

GO SLEEK: A thin elastic Scunci headband (4 pk, $3.89) covers roots and delivers a sporty-chic look in a snap. Again, to tame frizz, use a frizz fighting serum.

CHANNEL NICOLE RICHIE: If you simply can’t bother with any of the above, pop on a panama hat and head out.