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Protecting Your Hair from Sun Damage

Sun Damage 101: How to Protect Your Hair in the Sun

As the warm months come around and we spend more time in the sun, we often cover our skin with sunscreen but tend to forget the potential harm it may have on our hair. The truth is that sun damage is not limited to our skin alone.

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Exposure to sunlight can really take a toll on your hair. It's not just about the color fading; UV rays can damage your strands' structure. This damage can lead to dryness, weaker hair , and even split ends. The sun's rays mess with the proteins and melanin in your hair. These are the building blocks that keep your hair strong and vibrant. UV light causes them to break down, just like how sunlight fades a photograph over time.

Your hair has a natural defense system against UV damage, thanks to melanin. These pigments absorb UV rays to protect your hair proteins. But here is the catch: while melanin shields your hair, it can also get damaged itself. Especially the outer layers of your hair, like the cuticle, get hit the hardest by sunlight. This can lead to annoying problems like split ends and rough texture.

So, it is essential to understand how sunlight affects your hair. Knowing this helps you take steps to keep your hair healthy and strong, even when out in the sun.

How Does the Sun Damage Your Hair

Fortunately, there are ways to protect and safeguard your locks from the sun. We recommend taking some of these proactive measures.

How to Protect Your Hair from Sun Damage

This might not be a surprise but, when possible, try to minimize prolonged exposure. And if you plan to be outside during peak UV hours (usually from 10 am to 4 pm), try to seek out shade or take breaks indoors to give your mane a moment away from the intense sunlight.

Limit Sun Exposure

There are countless products on the market now formulated to protect and combat UV damage. From leave-in conditioners to serums, they are designed to fortify your hair’s natural defenses, shielding it from environmental stressors and promote repair.

Invest in UV-Protective Hair Products

Shield your hair from direct sunlight by donning hats, scarves, or even a head wrap. These stylish devices can help cover your scalp and strands from the sun, especially during peak UV hours.

Cover Up Your Locks from the Sun

To further minimize direct sun exposure, we recommend trying protective hairstyles such as ponytails, braids, or buns to keep more of your hair protected. It may reduce exposure and damage in comparison to having your hair down.

Try a Protective Hairstyle

Despite your best efforts, shielding your mane entirely from the sun is nearly impossible. However, there are several effective methods to repair and revitalize your hair after sun exposure.

Ways to Nourish Hair After Being in the Sun

Hydration plays a pivotal role in maintaining your hair health! Following sun exposure, replenish lost moisture by incorporating hydrating shampoos and conditioners into your routine. Add a deep conditioning treatment to infuse additional moisture. Treat your locks with the same care you afford your skin – prioritize hydration at every step.

Restore Moisture in Your Hair

Regular trims are essential for vibrant hair. By eliminating split ends and preventing further damage, trimming promotes healthy hair growth and reduces the risk of breakage. It is a simple yet effective strategy for maintaining your locks vitality.

Get a Haircut Trim

True hair health begins inside. Make sure you are getting enough essential nutrients, and of course, drinking enough water, to nourish your hair from the inside out.

By incorporating these preventative and reparative measures into your regimen, you can enjoy the warmth of the sun while preserving the health of your hair. If you would like to read tips and tricks, check out our full blog [here](/articles/).


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