Nothing beats feeling the sensation of the sun on our skin on a hot summer day! It is healthy for humans to absorb vitamin D from the sun. But what about our hair and the sun? The overexposure of the sun can impact our hair.
The UVA and UVB radiation of the sun can harm and weaken the cuticles of our hair, making it more prone to dryness, brittleness, and breakage.
But fear not—this does not mean that you must completely avoid the sun this summer.
To manage your summer hair care routine appropriately, we go into detail on how the sun affects our hair as well as the symptoms of sun-damaged hair to watch out for this summer. Continue reading to discover more about UV hair damage prevention and treatments for sun-damaged hair!
An Example of How Sun Can Damage Your Beautiful Hair
You must have experienced that overusing a hair dryer can lead to significant damage to your hair.
The same impact can be expected from those harsh sun’s rays. Extended heat and dryness can make your hair frizzier, brittle and dryer.
The outer part of your hair is called the “hair shaft,” made of a tough protein called keratin. This hair shaft is sensitive to various external factors, such as physical damage, exposure to the sun, and exposure to chemicals. One of the most common reasons for damage to the structure of the hair shaft is excessive sun exposure.
When your hair is exposed to the sun for too long, it can lead to several problems. The sunlight can break down and damage the proteins in your hair, and it can also cause changes in the color of your hair. Specifically, the UVB radiation from the sun is responsible for the loss of hair proteins, while UVA radiation causes changes in hair color.
So How to Protect Your Hair in Sun
Start with a Hair Cut
Before embarking on your summer hair care journey, consider starting with a haircut. Regular trims, every 6-8 weeks, help eliminate split ends and dryness, setting a strong foundation for the season ahead. This step ensures your hair is in the best possible condition to withstand sun exposure.
Wear a Stylish Hat
One of the most fashionable and effortless ways to safeguard your hair from the sun is by wearing a hat. Opt for a wide-brimmed hat that not only complements your outfit but also offers much-needed shade to your locks. It’s a stylish and practical accessory that provides dual benefits—protecting your hair and shielding your face from harmful UV rays.
Protect Your Colored Hair
If your hair is colored, be particularly vigilant about sun exposure. The combination of UV rays and hair dye chemicals can lead to undesirable outcomes, such as color fading or alteration. To combat this, invest in specialized products designed for colored hair. These products often contain UV filters that help preserve the vibrancy of your color.
Embrace the Power of Conditioner
Regularly using a high-quality conditioner is essential to keep your hair nourished, preventing dryness and ensuring it remains soft and manageable. After each wash, apply conditioner generously, paying extra attention to the ends of your hair.
Pre-Swim Hair Protection
Chlorine is often present in pools which can impact your hair, making it important to take a proactive approach.
Prior to taking a dip, apply a leave-in conditioner or a small amount of coconut oil to your hair. This acts as a protective barrier, reducing the absorption of chemicals and helping to keep your hair moisturized.
Shampoo with Caution
While conditioner is highly recommended for your summer haircare, you should be careful with the use of shampoo.
Frequent shampooing can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it more susceptible to sun damage. If you find yourself needing to wash your hair daily due to sweat and grime, opt for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo.
Reduce Heat Styling
Your hair is already exposed to the sun’s scorching heat, so it’s wise to minimize additional heat from styling tools such as straighteners and hair dryers.
Make sure to set your hairdryer in a low-heat setting. And don’t forget to apply a heat-protectant serum to your hair.
However, whenever possible, allow your hair to air-dry naturally. This gentle approach reduces the risk of heat-induced damage.
Overnight Nourishment
Consider incorporating overnight treatments into your summer hair care routine. These treatments provide deep conditioning, helping your hair retain moisture and vitality. You don’t necessarily need to invest in expensive products; a simple leave-in conditioner applied mainly to the roots and then securing your hair in a towel overnight can work wonders.
Ditch the Brush, Embrace the Comb
After a day in the sun, there’s a natural urge to brush your hair, especially if it’s been tousled by the sea breeze. However, brushing your hair vigorously can lead to breakage, especially when it’s weakened by sun exposure. Instead, opt for a wide-tooth comb. Be patient, and use your fingers to gently separate knots when necessary. This approach minimizes breakage and keeps your hair in better condition.
DIY Hair Masks
For an affordable and effective natural treatment, consider using homemade hair masks. One popular option is a mixture of one egg white, three tablespoons of natural yogurt, and three tablespoons of mayonnaise. Apply this mixture to your hair for around half an hour before rinsing thoroughly. Eggs are rich in protein, which helps nourish your hair and restore its vitality.
Keep Your Head Above Water
While enjoying the sea or pool can be refreshing and enjoyable, keep in mind that frequent submersion can strip your hair of its natural oils. To give your hair a break, try to avoid immersing it every day. Instead, keep your head above to protect your lovely locks.
Conclusion
As you soak in the sun and relish the beauty of summer, don’t forget to extend your care to your hair.
By putting these precautions in action, you can keep your hair looking and feeling its best throughout the sunny season. Whether you’re donning a stylish hat, embracing conditioner, or opting for overnight treatments, your hair will thank you for the extra attention and protection. So go ahead, enjoy the summer, and keep your lovely locks vibrant and healthy!
