Your hair needs this in summer — or it will get dry and brittle
How to protect your hair from the sun in summer (photo: Magnific)
In summer, hair is especially vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation: sunlight breaks down keratin, dries out strands, and can cause loss of shine and brittleness. How to maintain healthy-looking hair is explained by Cleveland Clinic.
How the sun can damage hair
Dermatologist and MD Wilma Bergfeld explained that prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays can cause:
- Cuticle damage — the outer layer of hair breaks down, leading to dryness, frizz, or brittleness, making it feel like straw
- Structural damage — long-term exposure damages hair follicles, leading to breakage and split ends
- Discoloration — dye makes hair more vulnerable to sun exposure. The sun can also bleach hair and accelerate premature graying
All hair types are at risk of sun damage, but light and thin hair suffers the most.
Thin and light hair has less pigment to protect it from the sun’s rays. Darker and thicker hair is usually denser and oilier, which provides a protective effect.
How to protect hair from the sun
Simplify your routine
Hair straighteners, excessive washing, and bleaching products can damage the protein in hair, making it more fragile and more prone to sun damage.
To avoid drying it out, use low or medium heat settings when using a hair dryer and avoid excessive washing.
Strengthening
The healthier your hair is, the more resistant it will be to damage over time. Vitamins and supplements can help keep it strong and healthy.
Hydration
Hydration is key to healthy hair, so make sure you drink plenty of water. Gentle moisturizing products and conditioners can also lock in extra moisture.
Natural hair oils such as almond, coconut, or avocado oil can also help create a protective barrier against UV rays.
Hair sunscreen
It forms a protective layer on the hair surface with active UV filters that absorb or reflect radiation. Simply apply it before or after styling and distribute evenly using your fingers or a brush.
Don’t forget the scalp
The top of the head is especially vulnerable to sun damage, especially if the scalp is exposed or your hair is thin or light. Use a regular sunscreen spray or lotion with SPF 30 or higher to protect it.
Avoid peak sunlight hours
The sun is strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. If possible, minimize time outdoors during this period.
If you must go outside, be sure to reapply sunscreen every few hours.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
