Beyonce has got a big 'un, Naomi is sporting one on the front cover of Vogue this month and Jonathan King had a multi-coloured one in the 70s, but the less said about that the better.

The afro - the hairstyle with the biggest personality on the block - is back, although it is hard to imagine the women who lunch at Bettys joining the retro summer trend.

This distinctive style, which must be 30 if it's a day, is a difficult one to pull off unless you have a big personality to match your big hair. But if you do opt for an afro, don't be fooled into thinking it's a soft option.

According to former afro hairdresser of the year Errol Douglas, you can't let your hair just go its own sweet way.

It needs love, attention and a whole barrel full of oil.

To keep your afro clean, healthy, shiny and moist, he advises using oil rather than silicone-based treatments. Products including moisturising shea butter, such as Phytologie PhytoSpecific (available from www.HQHair.com), are particularly effective at preventing afro hair becoming too dry and brittle.

But what about the rest of us shrinking violets and wallflowers who shriek with horror at the thought of having half an inch cut off our safe little bobs - what are we to do with our tired, lank locks this summer?

Well, how about going blonde? You don't have to do the full monty with a Diana Dors peroxide extravaganza, but a few highlights here and there can really lift your look and make you feel sensationally summery. The key to going blonde for the beach is to take professional advice.

Don't do it yourself - it's just not worth the risk. Instead put yourself in the hands of a professional colourist who will be able to lead you through the hundreds of shades of blonde on the market today to find one that suits your skin tone and lifestyle.

Colour-treated hair is a high-maintenance choice, so make sure that you visit your salon regularly to keep your roots in check. It's also worth investing in products specially formulated for blonde hair, such as John Frieda's beachblonde range, to help remove dulling residues while adding sheen and depth to your new colour.

Finally, if you do decide to go for a dramatic colour change, don't forget to overhaul your make-up bag too. You may find shades that once looked great now leave you looking washed out. If in doubt, arrange a free consultation at a store make-up counter.

Updated: 08:54 Tuesday, August 13, 2002