How Can I Protect My Hair from Sun Damage?


You should apply sunscreen before you go out in the sun. Do you protect your hair against sunburn?

You’re right, just as the sun can cause damage to your skin, so can those damaging rays on your hair. If you don’t take preventative steps, your hair might end up with split ends that will need to be cut off much sooner than you would like.

These stylist-recommended tips will help you maintain healthy, shiny hair while out in the sun.

Check out glueless wigs

Does Sun Damage Hair?

The short answer is: The sun can damage hair.

Here are some details to help you understand the reasons for these effects and how to protect your hair from sun damage. The sun’s UVA and UVB rays can cause damage to your hair color and style in many ways.

  • Lipid damage. Long-term sun exposure can cause hair to lose its outer layer of oils, which acts as natural protection against environmental elements. This is the main cause of frizzy hair and dry hair. Without this layer, hair can’t retain moisture.
  • Internal damage: Sunlight can also cause hair to become weaker and more prone to breaking and splitting.
  • Color damage – Hair dyes can make it more vulnerable to external and internal damage. Dry hair is porous and easier to wash out. Additionally, the UV rays can act as bleach on your hair, breaking down color faster and making it fade or become brassier.

Who is most at risk for hair sun damage?

Fine hair with a light color is more susceptible to UV damage than those with darker textures. All hair types and colors can be damaged in some way.

What about where you live or vacation? Surprisingly you are at the same risk of sunburns whether you live in the suburbs or on the beach.

Keep in mind that the problem will only worsen with the increasing intensity of the sun’s heat and ozone depletion. It’s important to learn how to prevent sun damage to your hair.

Signs of sun-damaged hair

You may notice changes in your hair’s color and style if you are out in the sun for a long time. The following are signs of hair damage caused by the sun:

  • Color Change: This is an indication that your hair has been damaged by UV rays.
  • Texture change: Your once smooth hair may feel dry and rough and not as flexible as it used to.
  • Split ends – As the sun penetrates the hair, it causes it to become more fragile and prone to breakage.

How to protect your hair from sun damage

You can protect your hair just like you do with SPF every day.

Add a barrier

A scarf or hat is a great way to naturally protect your hair from the sun. However, not all hats offer the same level of protection against sunburns. Because they are tested and approved by the FDA, hats with an ultraviolet protection number (UPF) are your best option to reduce hair sun exposure. If you don’t want to be exposed to harmful UV rays, then choose tightly woven fabrics over straw hats that are open-weave.

Limit Peak Sunlight Exposure

Avoid sunburn by avoiding sun exposure in the hottest parts of the day. Protect your hair as well. Avoid the afternoon or early morning if you are planning to go outside. Although you can’t completely avoid the sun, it will help you to avoid the most harmful rays.

Add SPF to your Hair Care Routine

Consider adding a SPF product for your head to the sunscreen you already use. There are many options to protect your hair, whether you prefer a powder-based or spray-based option.

Keep your Scalp Healthy

Your hair can protect your scalp from the sun to a certain extent. But not entirely. Your scalp can become more sensitive and fragile if it isn’t used too much sunlight. Sunburnt and dryness can result in hair loss. To keep your hair in the best condition, apply sunscreen to your scalp and moisturize often (more details later).

Checkout Deep Wave wig

Avoid Chemicals

Summer is a time when the sun and pool go hand-in-hand. However, chemicals such as chlorine can make your hair weaker, making it more susceptible to sun damage. Chemicals used in lightening treatments can make your hair vulnerable to the sun’s harsh radiations. This doesn’t mean that you should give up your summer-kissed appearance. However, for maximum protection, it might be worth forgoing color treatments with bleach.

Get a break from heat styling

The sun can be just as brutal on its own. Heat styling only adds to the damage. You don’t need to throw away your curling irons or blow dryers, but it is a good idea to use them less frequently during summer. This will help you keep your hair healthy. A styling cream such as Hair Balm will help your hair look frizzy and dry naturally.

You may still like a curled, straightened or buffed look from time to time. To protect your skin from heat and UV light, use a heat protector, such as Dressed up.

Moisturise Extra!

Dryness is one of the most obvious signs of sun damage to hair. To protect your hair, make sure you have a good moisturizing routine. Don’t buy the largest bottle of conditioner that you can find. You won’t even need to buy a separate conditioner if your shampoo is replaced with a soap-free one.

Here’s why: Conventional shampoo removes hair’s natural oils and then a conditioner restores that moisture. You can prevent the oils from being removed by using a soap-free shampoo, such as New Wash. This will preserve your natural moisture and protect your hair. A leave-in conditioner like Hair Balm can add extra moisture to your hair. Check out this HD Lace Wigs by celie hair.

Proper protection is the key.

Hair damage is a constant problem. You can keep your hair healthy by using a gentle shampoo and conditioner, as well as preserving your natural moisture and being gentle to your scalp.

Read Also: Essentials Hoodie


Ahsan Ali

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Subscribe to receive the weekly Newsletters from our website. Don’t worry, we won’t spam you.