The weather is getting warmer, which means it’s time to switch out your spring jacket for the perfect sundress. While the summer is sure to bring good times, it also means dealing with a bright sun.
You’ll already be stocking up on sunscreen, but what about your hair? Can sun damage hair? Does sun damage hair that's colored or bleached?
To avoid sun-damaged hair this summer, there’s a handful of tips to follow. If you follow all of the tips in our guide below, you’re sure to keep your locks happy and healthy.
Ready to learn more? Let’s get started.
1. Wear a Hat
One of the simplest and most effective ways of protecting your head from sun damage is by wearing a hat. This protective layer helps combat direct sunlight and keeps you cool.
Not only does it help protect your hair strands, but your scalp will be protected as well. Many people don’t realize that their scalp is a vulnerable spot where sunburns are bound to happen if they don't take protective measures.
Don’t think that any old hat will do! You’ll need a hat that provides UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). These hats block the harmful sun rays but also provide a minimum SPF of 50.
This may sound like space-age technology, but plenty of companies have incorporated this innovative technology.
If you cannot find that type of hat, you’ll want a wide brim sun hat. This will not only protect your hair and scalp, but it’ll also protect your face!
2. Apply Protective Products
We all know how important sunscreen and sun safety is. If you want to repair bleach-damaged hair, you have to take extra precautions to protect it from the sun.
There are plenty of products that you can apply before being out in the sun for extended periods of time. Look for oils or elixirs that are formulated to protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Consider Rosehip Oil since it contains many antioxidants that reflect sunlight off the hair and protect against sun damage.
There is also sunscreen for your hair! Believe it or not, this is an effective way of keeping your hair from getting damaged by the sun. If you want to avoid sun damage hair loss, try combining the hat and hair sunscreen method.
Bleach already does enough damage. There's no need to make it worse by leaving your hair unprotected in the sun.
3. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
If you want to repair bleach-damaged hair and protect it from damaging sun rays, you must keep your hair moisturized. Even if you aren’t in the sun every day, just a few minutes can leave your hair feeling thirsty.
Keep your hair nice and quenched with weekly hair masks, leave-in conditioners, and drinking plenty of water. If you’re on the go, there’s plenty of protective oils that you can apply to damp strands or dry ends before heading outside.
Summer heat leaves cuticles open and more porous, so your hair will easily absorb all of the hydrating treatments. Say hello to hair that feels healthy and repaired.
4. Limit Sun Exposure
This might not be the easiest solution, but it’s effective nonetheless. You don’t necessarily have to spend less time outdoors, but you should opt for the shade if you’ve been in the sun for extended periods of time.
One of the things you should do is protect your hair in places you think the sun isn’t exposed to.
For example, you may not realize it, but you will need to protect those strands even when you're driving. The glass in a car doesn’t protect you from the sun’s rays. If you anticipate driving for long periods of time in direct sunlight, wear a hat and be sure to keep your hair protected.
Essentially, whenever you know that you’ll be exposed to damaging sunbeams, be prepared to limit your sun exposure.
5. Don’t Forget Your Scalp
As mentioned previously, the scalp is more vulnerable than you think. Healthy hair comes from a healthy scalp. That’s why you don’t want to avoid taking care of your scalp when you start figuring out your hair care routine.
You can use a variety of products that are designed for the scalp. Look for anything with UVA and UVB filters. Apply all over your scalp and strands, and you’ll be ready for a day at the beach.
Outside of sun-specific products, you should care for your scalp in every season. This means everything from exfoliating weekly to applying healthy protective oils.
A clean scalp promotes good cell turnover and creates a base for optimal hair growth. If your dream is to have long, healthy hair (and who doesn't have that dream?), then you'll want to keep your scalp protected from the sun.
Avoid Sun-Damaged Hair This Summer
Preventing and healing sun-damaged hair shouldn’t be difficult. Unfortunately, it can be easy to overlook when you’re having a good time.
You don’t need to spend a lot of time or money to keep both your skin and hair from feeling less than ideal during the summer. If you follow these tips, you’ll be able to have the time of your life and not have to worry about creating any unwanted damage.
If you’re looking for another way to keep your hair happy and healthy, you’ll love our Turbie Twist towel! Check out our products for more great ways to keep your hair healthy all year long.