How to Protect Your Hair From Sun Damage

Although sunshine can lift your spirits, it can also damage your hair. Conditions such as brittleness, fading and breakage can occur when your hair isn't properly protected from the sun's powerful rays. Protecting your hair from the sun is essential for maintaining healthy hair and preventing irreversible damage. You can still enjoy the sunshine while taking necessary measures to keep your hair at it's best.

Things You'll Need

• SPF hair products Conditioner Scarves Wide-brimmed hats

Instructions

1. Apply products specially designed to protect hair from sun damage. Using products with SPF protection can do double duty for your hair health. Use a generous amount of this kind of conditioner before going into the sun and reapply as needed throughout your exposure. Steer clear of SPF-enriched conditioners that contain alcohol, as these treatments can increase hair dryness and breakage.

2. Reduce your amount of loose hair. For instance, styling your hair in braids and ponytails limits the amount of hair that's exposed to direct sunlight. It also decreases preparation time, which can be beneficial in case your plans quickly change. For instance, pulling your hair into a quick ponytail or French braid makes it easier to coat you hair with SPF protection or cover it with a hat.

3. Refrain from using oily hair products before going into direct sunlight. Use caution when applying products such as oil sheen, hair sprays and gels as sunlight can heat these products to dangerous temperatures. Consider using these products before bedtime, or on days when you won't be in the sun for long periods, in order to receive the benefits without the burn.

4. Pay special attention to chemically treated and light-colored hair. These hair types are more prone to sun damage, so extra care may be necessary to prevent harm. Maintain a regular washing regimen along with extra conditioning treatments. Using both leave-in and rinse-out conditioners can help ensure your hair stays moisturized, and is protected from sun damage.

5. Cover up your hair with scarves and wide-brimmed hats for added protection. Using these items to block the sun's rays can help ensure your hair and scalp won't get "baked." This is especially important if you're going to be out in the sun for more than two hours at a time or if you're in the sun during peak hours (10 a.m to 4 p.m.). Keeping a hat within reach can ensure you stay protected, even if your plans change.

6. Cover up your hair with scarves and wide-brimmed hats for added protection. Using these items to block sun rays can help ensure your hair and scalp aren't "baked." This is especially important if you're going to be out in the sun for more than two hours at a time or if you're in the sun during peak hours. Keeping a hat within reach can ensure you stay protected, even if your plans change.

Tips & Warnings

• Using an umbrella while in direct sunlight helps protect your hair from sun damage. Decreasing your dependence on blow-dryers and curling irons during the summertime can help your hair stay healthy. Deep-condition your hair with a hot-oil treatment once a week for increased dryness protection.

• Avoid skipping sun-protection measures, as doing so can have serious consequences for your hair and scalp health.

Resources

• Folica: Sun and UV protection products
• CDC: Sun protection tips