Do you slather on sunscreen before a day in the sun, but forget to put it on your hair and scalp? You're not alone. While we diligently protect our skin from harmful UV rays, our hair and scalp often get overlooked. Using sunscreen on your hair and scalp is as important as using an SPF for your skin. Learn why it's super important to protect your hair and scalp from the sun, the damage UV rays can cause, ways to shield your tresses, and what products to use.
Why Your Hair Needs Protection
Your hair and scalp, like your skin, are vulnerable to the sun's harsh rays. UV rays penetrate the outer layer of your hair and scalp, causing oxidative stress. This leads to the production of free radicals, which damage the cells and proteins in your hair and scalp. Over time, this can weaken your hair, making it more prone to breakage and hair loss. To maintain healthy hair, it’s important to understand why you need to protect your hair and scalp from the sun.Â
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UVB Rays vs. UVA Rays
- UVB Rays
UVB rays can break down the protein structure of your hair, especially keratin leading to dryness, brittleness, and split ends.Â
UVA rays break down melanin and can fade your hair color whether it’s natural or dyed.
Recognizing the Signs of Sun-Damaged Hair
Being aware of the signs of sun damage can help you take action to protect and restore your hair and scalp. Here are some common indicators that your hair may be suffering from sun exposure.
Sun-damaged hair often feels dry and brittle. This happens because UV rays strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dehydrated. If your hair lacks moisture and feels rough to the touch, it might be time to consider sun protection.
UV rays can break down the melanin in your hair, leading to color fading. This is particularly noticeable in dyed hair where vibrant colors can quickly become dull. Even natural hair colors can lose their vibrancy after prolonged sun exposure.
If you notice an increase in split ends and hair breakage, it could be due to sun damage. The weakening of the hair's protein structure makes it more susceptible to breaking and splitting.
Choosing the Right Hair Products for Summer
Using the right hair products can make a significant difference in protecting your hair from sun damage. Here's a list of products we recommend using:
- Peppermint Tea Tree Shampoo Clarifying Shampoo⎯ removes sweat + dirt and build-up from the scalp.
- Coconut Shea Hair Masque⎯ hair masks can treat dandruff and flaky, itchy scalp, and prevent hair dryness.
- Peppermint Tea Tree Hair Oil⎯ with this oil, experience a refreshing tingle while naturally stimulating the scalp and improving its blood flow.
- Lavender Aloe Hair Oil⎯ this scalp treatment helps to strengthen hair and soothe your scalp. Use our hair oil regularly to minimize the look of frayed or frizzy hair & split ends.
- Coconut Shea Hair Masque⎯masks can revitalize your hair follicles + stimulate growth.
Protecting your hair and scalp from the sun is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of your hair and keeping it strong and vibrant!
