How To Protect Hair From Sun Damage

We all know that you should protect your hair from the sun, especially in summer. Just like the sun can wreak havoc on your skin, these rays can wreak havoc on your hair. Left unprotected hair can lead to damage like brittle and dry hair, while also causing sunburn to the scalp. If you're looking to enjoy the sun this season while maintaining shiny, healthy locks, read on and try these tips for protecting your hair from sun damage.

Does the sun damage hair?

Yes, the sun can damage hair!

How do UV rays actually damage our hair?

When the sun's ultraviolet rays hit our hair, they break down the proteins that make it up. In fact, one study found that UVB radiation can damage the integrity of our hair proteins, while UVA radiation can cause changes in the color of our hair. Weakening of hair strands due to UV exposure can lead to brittle, broken, dull, dry strands.

Lipid damage: Prolonged sun exposure breaks down the lipids in the outer layer of hair, which is a natural protective layer against environmental factors. This is one of the main causes of dry and frizzy hair because, without this layer, your hair cannot retain moisture.

Internal damage: Sunlight can also damage the internal structure of your hair, making it brittle and prone to breakage and split ends.

Color damage: If your hair is dyed, it is more susceptible to internal and external damage, as the color treatment leaves your hair dehydrated and brittle. Dry hair tends to be more porous, which means dye washes out more easily. Plus, UV rays act like bleach to hair and can destroy hair color, causing it to fade or turn brassy faster than usual.

How to protect hair from sun damage?

Keep your hair hydrated

Since sun exposure can dry out hair, it's important to keep it as moisturized as possible. Before spending the day in the sun, be sure to drink plenty of water and pack hydrating snacks like fruits and vegetables with high water content. And try using a deep conditioning product before sun exposure to lock in moisture. You can use a hair mask to instantly moisturize and repair while restoring silkiness and elasticity to damaged hair.

Protect hair from the sun with a physical barrier

An easy way to naturally protect your hair from the sun is to use a physical barrier, such as a scarf or hat. But be aware that not all hats are created equal when it comes to hair sun protection. Hats with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) number are the best choice for minimizing your hair's exposure to the sun. Otherwise, choose a tightly woven fabric rather than a sparsely woven straw hat, which lets in harmful rays.

Add SPF to your hair care routine

You've already shopped for a sunscreen that's right for your skin, so consider adding an SPF product designed just for your head to your routine. Whether you opt for a spray or powder hair mask, there are a variety of options for protecting your hair.

Minimize peak sun exposure

To avoid sunburn, it's best to avoid sun exposure during the hottest part of the day, and the same goes for protecting your hair. If you plan to go out, choose a morning or late afternoon. While you can't completely shield yourself from the sun, you can shield yourself from some of its harshest, most damaging rays.

Keep your scalp healthy

Hair protects the scalp from the sun to some extent, but not completely. In fact, since your scalp isn't used to direct sunlight, it can be extra sensitive and fragile. Too much sun on the scalp can cause sunburn and dryness, which in turn can affect the roots of your hair. Make sure to apply sunscreen to your area and moisturize regularly to keep your scalp looking its best.

Avoid heat styling

The sun itself is cruel enough. Adding heat styling just multiplies the damage. While you don't have to put away your blow dryer and curling iron forever, using them less in the summer can help keep your hair strong. Of course, you'll still want a shaggy, straightened, or curled look once in a while. So when you pull out hot tools, be sure to use a heat protectant to protect against heat and UV rays.

Shampoo your hair less often

Daily shampooing strips the hair and scalp of their natural oils, and a lack of natural scalp oils can encourage the scalp to produce excess sebum. You can shower as often as you like, but make sure to wash your hair no more than every other day.