As summer arrives, we eagerly prepare for vacations, stocking up on SPF cream to protect our skin, buying new sunglasses, and choosing little dresses for beach days.
However, amidst all this preparation, we often forget one crucial aspect of summer care: protecting our hair. Just like our skin, our hair needs specific protection from the harsh effects of the sun. After all, our hair is our calling card, the first thing people notice about us.
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that can wreak havoc on our hair. Prolonged exposure to these rays can lead to several adverse effects, which are often easy to overlook. This aspect of hair care isn’t widely known, leading to unintentional neglect.
UV rays can degrade the melanin in our hair, causing color fading, especially for those with dyed hair. This means that the vibrant hues you worked so hard to achieve can quickly lose their luster. Additionally, sun exposure can break down the protein bonds in your hair, resulting in that lack of elasticity and strength.
The outer layer of the hair known as the cuticle, also vulnerable to UV damage can become dry and brittle, leading to split ends and making the hair more prone to breakage. This damage manifests in dryness, lack of shine, and an overall unhealthy appearance.
Unprotected exposure to the sun can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to a dry, frizzy texture. Additionally, the combination of sun and other environmental factors, such as wind and saltwater, can exacerbate the damage, making hair more difficult to manage and style.
So, how do we make sure that we’re using the right products and care that shield our hair from the sun and keep our locks vibrant and strong all summer long?
This aspect becomes especially crucial when we go on vacation and spend most of the time in direct sun and swimming in salty water.
A good solution to protect your hair from the negative effects of salty water is to rinse the hair after every plunge/swim to remove the salt from it. While salty water can damage the hair by causing dehydration, it can actually add value to the scalp. Saltwater can help to exfoliate and cleanse the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
Therefore, during vacations, take the opportunity to let your scalp rest. Enjoy the benefits of saltwater for your scalp, but make sure to rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water each day to remove excess salt and prevent dehydration. This way, you maintain the balance, keeping your scalp healthy while protecting your hair from dryness and breakage.
In addition to the hair care routine of course wearing a wide-brimmed hat, not only adds a chic touch to your beachwear but also provides a physical barrier against UV rays.
Second most important thing in protecting and nourishing the hair while being in the sun, is the products. Just like your skin your hair can benefit from sun protection factor (SPF) products. Look for hair sprays, serums, or leave-in conditioners with SPF to shield your strands from UV damage.
Plus you can also play with styling your hair to your advantage, braids, buns, and ponytails can help minimise exposure by keeping the hair tucked away and reducing the surface area exposed to the sun.
By incorporating these simple steps into your hair care routine, you can enjoy your summer vacations without worrying about sun or saltwater damage. Your hair will stay vibrant, strong, and beautiful, reflecting the care you put into protecting it.
And last but not least, lets do not forget how important is to hydrate ourselves not only by conditioning our hair from the outside but also from the inside, drink plenty of water to keep your body and hair hydrated.
For all the sun lover ladies you can also keep your hair healthy and free of split ends with regular trims and wear a silk scarf that will offer additional protection and reduce friction, preventing breakage and frizz.
While the sun is undeniably a source of joy and rejuvenation for our souls, it can be a formidable foe for our hair. By understanding the effects of UV rays and saltwater, and by adopting protective measures, we can enjoy the sun’s warmth without sacrificing the health and beauty of our hair. So, the next time you head to the beach, remember these tips and let the sun be a friend to both your soul and your hair.
Happy sunbathing!