Sun protection is a must for your skin and your hair. Color, strength, and moisture all get lost much faster as it has no protection. Those without color-treated hair aren’t off the hook either, uncolored hair still breaks down from sun, chlorine and salt. The cuticle becomes damaged creating a rough, dull outside on your hair which then doesn’t reflect light and shine in the same manner.

How does sun damage the hair?

The VA and UVB rays from the sun can damage your color and style in several different ways:

  • Prolonged sun exposure can break down your hair’s outer layer of lipids, which act as natural protection from environmental elements. This is one of the major causes of dry hair and frizzy strands, because without this layer, your hair isn’t able to retain moisture.
  • It can also damage the internal structure of your hair, weakening it and making it more prone to breakage and split ends.
  • If your hair is dyed, it’s even more susceptible to internal and external damage, since color treatments can leave your hair dehydrated and vulnerable. Dry hair tends to be more porous, which means dye is more easily washed out. Plus, UV rays act like bleach on your strands, breaking down color and making them fade or go brassy faster than usual.

What are the signs of sun damage?

If you’re out in the sun for long periods of time, you may start to notice changes to your color and style. Signs of hair damage from the sun include:

  • Discoloration: A dramatic color change is a telltale sign that UV rays have reacted with the melanin in your hair.
  • Change in texture: You may find your once-smooth hair is now dry, rough, and brittle and doesn’t swing freely like it used to.
  • Split ends: As the sun penetrates your hair, your strands become more fragile and prone to breakage.

How can you protect your hair?

  • Scarves and hats both provide good barriers, however keep in mind that not all hats protect equally. Hats that have a ultraviolet protection number are the best at minimizing sun exposure. Otherwise, choose a tightly woven fabric over an open weave straw hat, which can let in UV rays.
  • Avoid exposure during the hottest part of the day. If you need to go out try to do so in the morning or late afternoon.
  • Consider adding SPF to your hair care routine.
  • Keep your scalp healthy. While your hair does offer it some protection from the sun, it is not complete protection. Too much sun on your scalp can cause sunburn and dryness, which can affect the roots of your hair.
  • The sun is brutal enough on its own so try using your heated styling tools a little less during the hot summer months to help keep your hair strong. When you do pull out the tools, be sure to use a heat protectant to guard from heat and UV light, like our Infinity Drops. For after styling UV protection check out our Biotin Infused hair serum, formulated to protect hair from environmental aggressors like harmful UV rays.
  • To protect hair from sun damage you will want to have a solid moisturizing routine. Our Color Safe Revitalizing Keratin hair mask does wonders for protecting hair and restoring its natural moisture.

The sun will always be an issue, but learning how to protect your hair will help you maintain a healthy head of hair while still enjoying your fun in the sun.

Ref: www.hairstory.com