Although most people are keen on sun protection, they concentrate on skincare and neglect their hair. While your hair may not react the same way your skin does when exposed to the sun for long hours, you will begin to notice the change in color, texture, and strength with time.
As the warm season sets in and you are all excited about spending time outdoors hiking, picnicking, sunbathing, and swimming, you will also need a hair care plan to maintain healthy hair.
Effects of Sun on Your Hair
According to dermatologist Wilma Bergfeld, sun rays have the same damaging effect as bleach. In addition to discoloration, the sun weakens the protein structure responsible for your hair strength and elasticity. Sun damage occurs as follows:
Prolonged exposure to the sun damages the protein structure, making your hair weak and vulnerable.
The top layer of your hair contains an oil layer that acts as a moisture seal. When the UV rays penetrate the fatty layer, your hair loses moisture, becomes dehydrated, dull, and susceptible to breakage and dandruff infestation.
Prolonged sun exposure can damage the color of your hair regardless of the texture and type.
How to Protect Your Hair from Sun Damage
A severely sun-damaged hair may take longer to go back to its healthy state. Rather than wait to repair dry, frizzy, and weakened hair, these precautions will help your hair remain healthy throughout summer.
Avoid Chemicals
Chemically treated hair is highly susceptible to sun damage. Ensure you keep your hair chemical-free, and whenever you get exposed to chlorinated pool water, be sure to rinse your hair thoroughly to eliminate chlorine traces.
Wear a Hat
A hat will shield your hair from direct UV rays and prevent moisture loss. A wide-brimmed hat is the best since it also protects your face from sunburns.
Use a Sunscreen Spray
A sunscreen forms a protective layer on your hair which shields it from the harsh effects of UV rays.
How to Repair Sun-damaged Hair
If your hair is flaky, weak, and dry due to sun exposure, you can reverse that and regain your healthy hair. The following tips may help fix your sun-damaged hair:
Use a protein-rich hair mask to restore moisture, strength, and nutrients to your hair strands.
Wear a hat or a scarf to prevent further damage.
Massage your hair and scalp with a mixture of vitamin E capsules and olive oil to restore moisture.
Shampoo and condition your hair every day.
Final Thoughts
As you go out to have fun this season, be sure to follow the above protective measures to shield your hair. If you’re suffering from damaged hair or hair loss, call Genesis II today! To schedule a free consultation click here.
Photo Credit: 1643606 Via Pixabay
Footnotes:
Check https://www.mensjournal.com/style/prevent-reverse-sun-damage-hair/ to learn more about how to protect your hair from sun damage.
