We’re all aware of the damage the sun can cause our skin when we’re at the beach, but the damage it can do to our hair isn’t talked about much. In reality, it's equally as important to protect your hair as it is to take care of your skin when going out in the sun.
If you don’t take proper care, it can lead to hair loss, frizzy hair, and split ends, among other things. Essentially, you’re left with lifeless hair, but the good news is there are things you can do in order to protect your precious mane from getting damaged on your next vacation!
Keep reading below to get all the tips and tricks you need to save your hair from total destruction this upcoming summer season.
Effects of Summer Sun on Hair
The harsh heat from the sun can have many side effects on your hair. For example, staying out in the sun for long periods of time can strip the moisture from your hair, making it dry and damaged.
Other effects can be due to the strong rays the sun emits, such as UVA and UVB that provoke cuticle damage and cause breakage. The heat can also lead to hair discoloration and when the temperatures rise significantly they can cause your hair to become brittle and lifeless.
Besides these, the hot temperatures can foster the perfect environment for microbes to grow, which can increase your chances of having issues with your scalp, such as dandruff.
Of course, just like the rest of your skin, the sun can give you a sunburn on your scalp. This can lead to hair loss and hair thinning. It also dries out the scalp and increases the probability of flaking and itchiness.
How To Protect Your Hair in the Summer
So, now that you know all the ways your hair can get damaged, here are the ways you can protect it from getting damaged in the first place.
Get a Haircut
During the warmer months, clothing tends to get shorter, and doing so with your hair as well is a great way to deal with overheating. Rocking short hair is simple to manage and can have you looking super stylish. If you want to keep the new hairstyle looking fresh and clean then it's best to get it trimmed every two to three months.
Wear a Scarf
Wearing a scarf can be a great way to protect your hair since it prevents it from being directly exposed to sun rays and reduces damage. Not only will wrapping one around your hair protect it, but it can also be a fun fashion statement to rock.
Going for a cotton scarf is the best option since it can absorb any sweat and moisture that is released. Another alternative to wearing a scarf is going for a straw hat or a cap with ventilating holes.
Avoid Tight Hairstyles
While it might be tempting to keep your hair up so it isn’t in your face while running around in the warmer temperatures it’s actually best not to have it up. Going for tight hairstyles such as tight braids and tight slicked back ponytails and buns can lead to trapped sweat and increase the risk of infections.
Instead, try opting to wear your hair down most of the time, or a loose braid, messy buns, or relaxed ponytails for hairstyles. These styles will still allow you to keep your scalp airy while still keeping your hair out of your face and looking neat.
Wash Your Hair Regularly
Given that your hair is already being exposed to pretty intense rays of sun and warm temperatures, during the summer it’s also best if you stay away from heat tools, such as straighteners, blow dryers, etc., that can contribute to heat damage and make your hair look frizzy. It’s also best to avoid chemical treatments like straightening and perming during the summer since maintenance can get quite difficult.
Use a Conditioner
Use a rich conditioner after shampooing to nourish and moisturize your hair. Conditioners soften your hair, correct sun damage, and give it a lustrous sheen. These products also help to keep your hair from drying out and reduce the chances of breakages and split ends. After shampooing, use a conditioner and keep it on for a few minutes before rinsing with water. These products should not be used directly to the roots!
Oil Your Hair
Massaging your hair with oil can be very beneficial, especially in the summer. Massage your hair with a warm oil such as coconut or olive to improve blood circulation and encourage hair development. To prevent moisture loss, the oils coat your strands with a protective coating. One hour before your wash time, you can go enjoy a drink. Wrapping your hair in a heated towel also boosts the efficiency of the oils you're using.
Try Hair Masks
Using a hair mask on your hair can be the miracle solution you need for issues such as dryness, frizz, hair loss, and many other issues. These products have nourishing ingredients that will penetrate into every layer of the strand of hair.
Some of the best options to search for are products containing shea butter and argan oil. Deep conditioning masks can be used either as pre-shampoo treatments or after your shampoo, to substitute for your conditioner.
Invest in a Wide-toothed Brush
During the heat, the last thing you want is your comb snagging your beautiful strands! Invest in a decent detangling, wide-bristled brush that is gentle on hair to avoid this problem. When your hair is wet and weak, it is best not to comb it. You can easily untangle your hair with a few drops of serum.
Try Sunscreen Hair Products
While this might seem like a strange idea, it is definitely one that is worth trying! Using a specific UV-protecting haircare line can be a great asset when it comes to fighting the sun’s side effects. These types of products have SPF in their formulations which repel the strong rays from the sun, and also keep dryness minimal. There are multiple products to choose from, such as shampoos, mists, sprays, serums, and leave-in conditioners.
Conclusion
Now that you have all the tips and tricks on how to save your hair from getting damaged this summer, you can head to the beach worry-free. Of course, you need to make sure you’re following through with these tips and keeping yourself safe from the harsh rays.
If you’re consistent and implement the advice we’ve given you then you’ll have a great time with little to no sun damage. Now all you have to do is find your perfect swimsuit and sun-protecting cover-up on the La Blanca website!
Sources:
Summer Hair Care - Keep Your Locks Looking Great | Web MD
Sun Protection | The Skin Cancer Foundation
Hair Oiling Benefits, Choosing Oil, and How to Do It | Healthline