You know how important it is to wear sunscreen every day. Even on cloudy days, your skin is susceptible to harmful UV rays. But did you know the sun can also damage your hair?
The sun’s rays act pretty much like bleach on hair. Continued exposure to harsh sunlight and humid summer heat can cause weathering and oxidative damage to the hair follicles. Sea water and chlorinated pool water can also compromise the health of your hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and stiff. All hair types are prone to damage, no matter the color, density, or texture, but chemically treated hair is particularly susceptible.
So, let’s look at how you can protect your hair from the heat, sun, and humidity.
Your Summer Haircare Routine
- Cover up!
Get yourself one of those chic, wide-brimmed hats that will protect not only your hair but your face, neck, and shoulders from direct sunlight. If you’re someone who can’t stand hats, try using a scarp or headwrap to shield your hair and add a fun element to your outfit.
Covering your hair can also reduce damage caused by wind and help your scalp retain moisture. It also protects color-treated hair from fading more quickly. On that note, you might want to avoid coloring your hair during the summer months, as UV rays can break down the bonds present in the dyes.
- Wash your hair a little less often
And go easy on the shampoo. Frequent washing strips your scalp of its natural oils, making it dry and flaky. In some people, washing your hair too much can stimulate additional oil production, making you feel like you need to wash it more often.
When you do wash your hair, make sure to use tons of conditioner to restore some moisture to it. If you’re going for a swim, use a leave-in conditioner to prevent your hair from drying out.
- Use a hair mask
Hair masks, even homemade ones, applied once a week can help prevent and repair sun and heat damage. Look for hair masks that boost hydration for smoother, shinier, and healthier hair. You can also find hair treatment masks made specifically for color-treated hair that not only work to preserve the color of your hair but also minimize breakage and relieve dryness. Whatever your hair needs, chances are there’s a mask for it.
Alternatively, you can make a DIY hair mask by crushing avocados and adding some organic olive or coconut oil to make a paste you can wash off.
- Reduce the heat
Try to use your blow dryer and flat iron as little as possible during summer. Your hair is already exposed to enough heat as it is and is likely to air-dry quickly anyway. If you really must blow dry your hair, choose a cold setting and avoid using heat. It also helps to wear your hair in looser styles during summer.
- Protect your hair while swimming
There’s nothing quite as refreshing as a swim in summer. But pool water is high in chlorine and may contain other hazardous substances that will ruin your hair. Wear a swimming cap to protect your hair, especially if you swim quite often.
After swimming, use a hydrating shampoo and condition your hair. It also helps to get your hair wet before going for a swim because then it won’t absorb as much chlorine.
Protect Your Hair From Sun, Sea, and Sand
No. This doesn’t mean you have to skip out on that beach vacation. You just need to tweak your hair care routine a little bit. Remember, coconut, olive, and avocado oils are good at keeping your scalp and hair hydrated.
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