You need to protect your hair from sun just like you need to protect your skin. And we can’t forget about your scalp! Your scalp is just as susceptible to skin cancer as the rest of your body.
UVA and UVB rays can damage your hair cuticle and show in different forms such as discoloration, dry and brittle strands, broken or split ends, thinning, and frizziness. It can also fade your hair dye so we need to protect your hair from sun.
Fine or light-colored hair is more susceptible to sun damage because it lacks the thickness, dark pigment, and oil to protect it from the sun.
So definitely utilize these tips if you have fine or light-colored hair but also if you have dark or thicker hair. You can never be too careful!
Wear a hat
A hat (or a head scarf) will be the best way to fully protect your hair and scalp from the sun. They have hats that have SPF science in them, but really any hat will do. One with a wide brim will also protect your face as well.
Use a protectant spray or product that contains UVA & UVB filters
Using protectant spray to help with UVA and UVB protection is recommended every day. But especially when you are going to be in the sun for a long time.
Here are some recommendations
Scalp Sunscreen/Hair Sunscreen
Scalp and hair sunscreen is a little different than regular sunscreen you would put in your body. They come in sprays and powders and are more lightweight to avoid leaving your hair greasy.
Here are some recommendations
Create a protective ‘shield’ with oil and slick it into a bun
The best way to not only protect your hair but also treat it at the same time is to add a treatment oil with UV protectants (like the Bumble and Bumble and Aveda ones above) and slick it into a bun. I would also still wear a hat for the majority of the time you are in the sun. Especially if you are spending all day in the sun.
This will create a protective shield from the rays and look sleek and stylish while enjoying your time in the sun.
Here is a hairstyle to wear with your UV protectant oil:
If you wear extensions, listen up!
If you have hair extensions, make sure you are wearing mineral sunscreen.
Chemical sunscreen contains avobenzine and octocrylene which create a chemical reaction when they come in contact with hair extensions which can turn your blonde hair extensions pink or orange…
Avobenzine is an oil-soluble ingredient to absorb the full spectrum of UVA rays and octocrylene acts as a stabilizer.
If you want to learn more ways to protect your hair from breakage, check out this blog post for all things ‘hair protection’!
