Protecting Your Hair from the Sun
With a scorching heat wave sweeping the UK, it’s second nature to leave the house with a good SPF layer on our skin – but what about our hair and scalp? Experts warn of the harmful effects of UV exposure on our strands, especially during peak vacation time when the heat shows no signs of slowing down.
The Damage Caused by UV Rays
The damage may not be immediately obvious, but prolonged sunlight can cause chaos for your hair. UV rays work in a similar way to bleach on hair, oxidizing the pigment, affecting the protein structure, and damaging the chemical bonds that hold the hair together. This can lead to hair brightening in the sun, but also results in dry, brittle strands, faded color, and increased breakage.
The Overlooked Area: The Scalp
The scalp is skin and can burn like any other area. Sunburn on the scalp can cause pain, inflammation, and long-term damage such as accelerated follicle aging and even skin cancer. It’s one of the most overlooked areas, and UV breaks off the cuticles, leaving hair porous and fragile. When your scalp burns, it damages the foundation of healthy growth.
Who is Most Susceptible to Sun Damage?
Nobody is immune, but some hair types are more at risk. Gray and white hair are particularly susceptible to UV damage because they lack melanin, which offers some protection. Finer hair is also more susceptible because it is naturally fragile. Chemically weakened hair is also more prone to damage, and colored hair fades particularly quickly, especially in red and vibrant tones.
The Difference Between UV and Heat Protection
Don’t be fooled into thinking your regular heat protection will cover you on the beach. Thermal protection is designed to protect hair from intense temperatures, such as those from hair dryers or straightening irons. UV protection is different and helps prevent the formation of free radicals, protein reduction, and pigment loss caused by solar radiation. You need a dedicated UV barrier to protect your hair.
Do Hair Products with SPF Actually Work?
Despite the marketing buzz, hair has no SPF rating in the same way as skin. SPF is a measurement of skin protection, and hair and skin are very different tissues. However, ingredients such as UV filters and absorbers can help protect hair fibers from solar damage. Look for ingredients such as benzophenone, octinoxate, or natural UV blockers like sunflower seed extract and green tea.
Recommended Products for UV Protection
Some recommended products for UV protection include:
- Charles Worthington Sunshine UV protection Leave-in-spray
- Aveda Sun Care Protection Hair Veil
Your Heat Wave Hair Care Routine
A few small changes can help keep your hair healthy all summer. Start with a UV protective product every day, and if you swim, rinse your hair with clean water before diving to reduce chlorine absorption. Saturate your hair with fresh water before swimming to prevent salt or chlorine from penetrating the hair. Apply a hydrophobic oil to seal the cuticle, use a weekly pre-shampoo treatment to replenish moisture, and protect your hair from SPF. Be gentle when combing your hair, and use a Leave-in spray and a wide comb to prevent breakage.
Recommended Products for Hair Care
Some recommended products for hair care include:
- Kérastase Soleil Huile Siren Treatment
- Philip Kingsley Swimcap Chlorine hair protection waterproof mask
- Tangle Teezer Wide tooth comb
