Summer sunshine feels amazing on our skin, but it can be tough on our hair. Just like your skin gets burned, your hair can get damaged by those strong sun rays too.
Protecting your locks from harsh UV rays helps keep them healthy, shiny, and strong all summer long.
1. Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat
Nothing beats the simple protection of a stylish hat. The wider the brim, the better coverage you’ll get for both your hair and face.
Choose breathable materials like straw or cotton to keep your head cool while blocking harmful rays.
2. Apply Hair Sunscreen
Yes, sunscreen for hair exists! These special sprays create a protective barrier against UV damage.
Most hair sunscreens are lightweight and won’t make your hair feel greasy or heavy. Apply to dry or damp hair before heading outdoors.
3. Rock a Protective Hairstyle
Braids, buns, and ponytails keep hair compact and reduce surface area exposed to the sun.
Twisting your hair up also prevents tangles from wind and reduces damage from friction against your shoulders. Try different styles to see what works best.
4. Time Your Outdoor Activities
Plan beach trips and outdoor adventures for early morning or late afternoon. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm.
By avoiding peak UV hours, you’ll significantly reduce potential damage to your hair and scalp.
5. Use Leave-in Conditioner
Many leave-in conditioners contain ingredients that offer UV protection while moisturizing. The extra hydration creates a barrier between your strands and the sun.
Apply generously to damp hair, focusing on ends which are most vulnerable to damage.
6. Rinse After Swimming
Salt water and chlorine combined with sun exposure create a damaging cocktail for your hair. Immediately rinse with fresh water after swimming.
Carry a small bottle of leave-in conditioner to apply after rinsing for extra protection when you can’t shower.
7. Cover Up with a Scarf
Silk or cotton scarves provide excellent sun protection while adding a stylish touch to your outfit. Unlike hats, scarves won’t cause hat hair or flatten your style.
Choose light colors that reflect rather than absorb heat to keep your head cool.
8. Moisturize Regularly
Well-hydrated hair resists sun damage better than dry, brittle strands. Deep condition weekly during summer months to restore moisture.
Natural oils like coconut or argan work wonderfully as pre-sun treatments, creating a protective layer while nourishing your hair.
9. Skip the Heat Styling
Hair that’s already damaged from heat tools becomes even more vulnerable to sun damage. Give your styling tools a summer vacation!
Embrace your natural texture or try heat-free styling methods like braiding damp hair overnight for beachy waves.
10. Try a UV-Protective Spray
Specialized UV sprays create an invisible shield against harmful rays. Unlike sunscreen, these lightweight formulas won’t weigh down your style.
Many contain antioxidants that fight free radical damage caused by sun exposure. Reapply throughout the day for continuous protection.
11. Get Regular Trims
Sun-damaged ends split more easily and look frayed. Schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks during summer months.
Removing damaged ends prevents splits from traveling up the hair shaft, keeping your overall style healthier despite sun exposure.
12. Use Color-Safe Products
Colored hair fades faster in the sun. Products specifically formulated for color-treated hair often contain UV filters.
Look for shampoos and conditioners with ingredients like sunflower extract or quaternium-70, which help lock in color while blocking damaging rays.
13. Hydrate from Within
What you drink affects your hair! Proper hydration keeps hair resilient against environmental stressors like sun exposure.
Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily. Add slices of cucumber or lemon for flavor and extra nutrients that benefit your hair.
14. Create a DIY Protection Spray
Mix green tea (antioxidants) with aloe vera juice (hydration) and a few drops of essential oils in a spray bottle. This natural concoction fights free radicals from sun exposure.
Spray onto damp or dry hair before sun exposure. The natural ingredients protect without harsh chemicals.
15. Avoid Harsh Hair Products
Products containing alcohol dry out hair, making it more susceptible to sun damage. Check ingredient lists and avoid alcohol-based sprays and gels during summer.
Instead, choose moisturizing, natural products that support hair health while providing environmental protection.