Hair Care in Summer: Can Sunlight Really Damage Your Hair?
As the summer Sun casts its warm embrace upon us, thoughts of lazy beach days, picnics in the park, and outdoor adventures start dancing in our heads. But amidst all the excitement, there's a crucial aspect of self-care that often gets overlooked – our hair.
Yes, you heard it right! Just like our skin, our hair needs protection from the scorching rays of the Sun. So, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of hair care in summer and explore whether sunlight can truly damage your locks.
Understanding the Basics
First things first, let's understand the structure of our hair. Each strand is composed of three layers: the innermost medulla, the cortex in the middle, and the cuticle, which acts as a protective outer layer. It's this outer layer that bears the brunt of environmental stressors, including sunlight.
The Problem: UV Radiation
Sunlight emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is divided into UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. While the Earth's atmosphere absorbs most of the UVC rays, both UVA and UVB rays penetrate the atmosphere and can affect our skin and hair.
Effects of UV Radiation on Hair
When your hair is exposed to prolonged sunlight, several things can happen:
Colour Fading
UV radiation can break down the pigments in your hair, causing it to fade. This is especially noticeable in coloured or dyed hair, where prolonged sun exposure can lead to a loss of vibrancy.
Dryness and Brittleness
Just like your skin, your hair can become dehydrated when exposed to the sun for too long. UV rays strip away the natural oils that keep your hair moisturised, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
Split Ends
UV damage weakens the structure of the hair shaft, making it more susceptible to split ends. Over time, this can result in frizzy, unmanageable hair that lacks shine and vitality.
Scalp Damage
Let's not forget about the scalp! Prolonged Sun exposure can lead to scalp sunburn, which can be both painful and damaging. It can also cause the scalp to become dry and flaky, leading to conditions like dandruff.
Hair Care in Summer: Tips and Tricks
Now that we understand the potential risks, let's talk about hair care in summer:
Wear a Hat
One of the simplest and most effective ways to shield your hair from the Sun is by wearing a hat. Opt for wide-brimmed hats that provide ample coverage for both your hair and scalp.
Use Sunscreen for Your Hair
Yes, you read that right – there are hair-specific sunscreens available that can help protect your locks from UV damage. Look for products that contain UV filters and apply them before heading out into the Sun.
Cover Up
If hats aren't your thing, consider covering your hair with a scarf or bandana. Not only will this provide protection from the sun, but it can also add a stylish flair to your summer look.
Limit Heat Styling
During the summer months, try to minimise the use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons. The combination of UV damage and heat styling can wreak havoc on your hair, so embrace your natural texture whenever possible.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Just like your body, your hair needs plenty of hydration to stay healthy. Drink plenty of water and use moisturising hair products to keep your locks nourished and hydrated.
Trim Regularly
Regular trims can help prevent split ends and keep your hair looking fresh and healthy. Aim to get a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain your hair's shape and vitality.
In conclusion, yes, sunlight can indeed damage your hair if proper precautions aren't taken. From colour fading to dryness and split ends, UV radiation can wreak havoc on your locks, leaving them looking dull and lifeless.
But fear not! With the right hair care routine and a few simple tricks, you can protect your hair from the summer Sun. So, before you head out for your next outdoor adventure, don't forget to show your hair some love and give it the protection it deserves.
Looking for a summer hair care product that can do it all? Check out The Earth Collective’s Sun Protection Hair Serum enriched with SPF15 and natural ingredients like Argan & Alfalfa.
