Things often seem brighter in the summer, from your clothes to your mood. Why not brighten up your hair? Here's a recipe for dark-colored tresses that will deepen your natural highlights for a fresh, healthy look.

Before you start, make sure your hair is clean and free of any styling agents, such as gel, hairspray, or mousse.

The rinse:

1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 quart of homemade clove or sage tea

Additional ingredients (optional):

If you have dandruff or dry scalp, add 10 drops of rosemary essential oil to the mixture.
If you have an oily scalp, add 10 drops of burdock essential oil to the mixture. back to top

Make a tea by mixing one tablespoon of herbs with one quart of boiling water in a heat-proof mixing bowl. Let the tea cool to room temperature and transfer it to a water pitcher or jug. Add vinegar and essential oil (if desired). Mix well.

Wear a T-shirt that you don't mind getting wet or stained. Hang your head over a tub or sink and pour the tea rinse over your hair. As you pour, gently massage the rinse into your hair and scalp. Let it set for 5 to 10 minutes, and rinse. back to top

The effects of this highlight treatment should last until the next time you wash your hair.

More reasons to love this rinse:

• Herbal hair rinses make your hair look shiny and healthy.
• Herbal rinses with vinegar restore hair's pH, which makes it free-flowing and more manageable. back to top