It seems like everywhere you look there’s someoner or something advertising how important it is to wear SPF on your skin. While I agree that wearing SPF on your skin is absolutely essential for your health, but there is one area of sun protection that rarely garners the attention that it needs, and that’s protecting your hair from the sun.
Think about it; your hair and skin are both mainly composed of keratin, so if you need to protect one from the potential harm of sun exposure, it’s only right that you protect the other, too! Check out these tips to help you sun-proof your hair will help you preserve your hair’s health and beauty.
Change of weather? Change your routine
As seasons change, so should your hair care regime. Summer rays will have a totally different effect on your tresses than the brittle cold of Winter. The way your hair cuticle reacts to different products through the year changes as temperatures fluctuate. Some products such as hair spray, mousses and gloss only superficially penetrate the hair shaft, which depending on the style you want is fine, but this could result in hair being more susceptible to torment from the sun given the hot temperatures and dry air. To really get to the root of things opt for weekly deep conditioners and/or hair masks as-needed.
Remember, water is your friend
Beachside rendezvous just come with the territory of this gorgeous hot weather, but don’t neglect your hair if you decide to take a dip. Salt water and chlorine can cause discoloration and drying damage to hair, so drench hair with water and add a coat of conditioner prior to entering the water. After taking a dip, be sure to thoroughly rinse hair with cool or lukewarm water.
Use products with protective ingredients
One way to add to protect your hair from sun damage is to use products with built-in ingredients to help combat the sun’s potential to harm your hair. There are several products with UVA and UVB protectors, as well as SPF formulas. Apply these products on wet or dry hair immediately before you have some fun in the sun. Be sure to use these products all from the root-to-tip of the hair as and to get those areas of the scalp that will be exposed to the sun. There are shampoos, conditioners, styling glosses and other everyday products that are formulated specifically to help protect your hair from the sun.
Ditch the Dye
I know they say blondes have more fun, but you might have to postpone your desire to lighten your hair. Summer isn’t the best time to change your hair color because the chemicals in the hair color will already put some strain on hair, so with the addition of sun rays it could lead to breakage and discoloration. If you just have to dye your hair use a temporary product, or opt for colorful clip-in extensions.
The power of the ponytail
When all else fails and you really don’t want to toil with styling your hair in luscious beach waves or you just love to wear your hair up, a ponytail is a Summer hairstyle to try. Rub an ample amount of conditioner to your hair and secure hair in a sleek high ponytail, side braid, or a bun. This method works best if you’re going to be in direct sunlight for less than an hour. Be sure to rinse with cool water afterwards to seal in the moisture.
Glamazons, what are your beauty tips to sun-proof your hair? What are your go-to products and hairstyles?
Ciao Bellas,
Glamazon Margo
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