How to Protect Your Hair from Sun Damage

The sun is out, the temps are higher, and the outdoors are calling your name. With the summer season just about here, it’s natural to want to spend as much time soaking up those warm rays as possible.

We know it’s important to protect our skin from harmful UV rays, but what about our hair?

Keep reading for the best sun protection for hair and scalp to keep your luscious locks healthy all season.

Use a Hair-Specific UV Protectant

There are many products designed to protect your hair from harsh UV rays. These can come in a spray, cream, or oil form and should be applied before you go out into the sun.

Not only can these products protect your hair from the rays, but they can also add helpful nutrients to your locks.

UV protectants are a popular option of sun protection for color treated hair.

Wear a Hat

This one seems simple, but it can make a big difference in terms of your hair health by preventing a sunburnt head and flaky scalp.

If you’re thinking of going outside for an extended period of time, put on a hat that covers your scalp (and has a wide brim for face coverage, too!). Looking for the perfect hat for those hot summer months? Discover more here.

Wash Chlorine or Saltwater Out Quickly

Chlorine and saltwater are known to dry out hair, leaving it brittle. Rinse your hair as soon as possible after exposing it to salt or chlorine to prevent damage.

Another way to help prevent your hair from soaking in excess chlorine or saltwater is to spray it with water before hitting the beach or pool so it’s already saturated.

Avoid Drying Ingredients

Ingredients like alcohol, lemon juice, and peroxide will dry out your hair, making it easier for things like split ends or discoloration to occur. Products that are designed to lighten your hair with exposure to the sun often have harmful ingredients in them as well.

Inspect the products you’re using on your hair to make sure these drying ingredients aren’t in them.

Treat Your Hair Post-Sun

Once you come in from the outdoors, there are some things you can do to keep your hair from feeling the effects of sun damage.

Use a hair mask to add moisture and needed nutrients to your hair. This can be done once a week and helps your hair repair any damage that was done.

A clarifying shampoo is also a helpful treatment if you used a sun protectant for hair, as the SPF found in the protectants can cause build-up.

Sun Protection for Hair Is a Must

Sun protection for hair is important for avoiding the breakage, dryness, and frizz that can result from UV rays. Now that you have all the tips and tricks for protecting your scalp, you’re ready to enjoy the sun.

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Filomena Hartmann