While most of us apply sunscreen on skin, we often forget that the hair and scalp are equally vulnerable to harmful UV rays. Prolonged sun exposure can weaken the hair’s structural integrity, fade colour, and cause breakages. Therefore, maintaining a healthy and beautiful hair requires protection from sun damage. Find out the reasons why it is essential to protect your hair from sun damage, and effective solutions.
The risks associated with hair sun exposure
Scalp damage
- The scalp is the same as facial skin, and can easily get sunburned.
- Even though hair can provide protection, it is not enough to avoid getting sunburned.
- If your scalp gets sunburned, it can cause peeling and increased risk of cancer.
Hair appearance
- UV rays can weaken the hair by breaking down its protein structure.
- Prolonged sun exposure can lead to frizz.
- UV rays can fade hair colour and make it difficult to maintain hair vibrancy.
Hair dryness
- Sun exposure can destroy hair’s natural oils, leading to breakage, dryness, and split ends.
- If your hair is already damaged by bleach or straightening, sun exposure can weaken it even more.
How to protect your hair from sun damage
Limit sun exposure
- Try to stay out of sun when UV rays are at strongest (12PM-3PM).
- Reduce direct sun exposure by staying in shaded areas.
Avoid hair ironing
- It’s best to avoid curling or straightening your hair with heat tools, as it can damage sun-exposed hair.
- You can wear buns or braids instead, it will also help minimise sun damage.
Use hydrating products
- Regularly use hair masks and oils.
- Opt for hydrating shampoos and conditioners to help restore moisture.
Apply sun protection
- Apply sun protection to your hair and scalp before going out.
- Use an after sun spray to avoid sun stressed hair.
Product recommendation
1. Malibu Sun Clear Hair and Scalp Protector Spray SPF 50
About the product
- Kind to skin.
- Easy to use, just spray it over your scalp and hair.
- Water resistant.
- Vitamin enriched.
- Most reviews are positive, people love how it protects from sun damage, however they mentioned that if using too much product it can make your hair look greasy.
2. Umberto Giannini Swim Proof Hair Protecting Cream
About the product
- Protects your hair from UV rays, chlorine, and salt water.
- Formulated with coconut oil, olive oil, and sunflower seed.
- Suitable for all hair types.
- Vegan & cruelty free.
- Great reviews, people are happy with the product, however some say they didn’t realise that the product is a pre-swim use.
3. Goldwell Dualsenses Sun Reflects After-Sun Spray
Why we love it
- Helps restore hair vitality after sun damage.
- It also acts as protection from UV rays.
- Everyone loves the product, the reviews say it smells good and does not leave your hair greasy.
