6 Ways to Protect your Hair from the Sun

Like skin, your hair strands also get affected by sunlight exposure.  Heat and Ultra Violet rays from the sun not only alter your hair color but can also leave your tresses dull, dry and brittle. Although there are ways to repair your hair from sun damage, why not follow the ancient proverb, “prevention is better than cure”? It takes several months before your hair recover from the sun dame, so take precautionary measures to prevent the damage from happening in the first place. Here are 6 ways to protect your hair from the sun:

1. Cover your head:

The best way to avoid sun damage is physical protection against sunlight. The best option is to go out with umbrella as it will not only cover your head but will also safeguard your skin against sun damage. But if you don’t like the idea of holding an umbrella in your hand every time you go out, simply wear a head covering like a hat or bandana. These will act as a barrier from direct sunlight.

2. Cut back on shampoo sessions:

Excessive shampooing is not good for your hairs, and particularly harmful if you spend some time out in sun. The natural oil of your scalp protects your hair from sun damage. Excessive shampooing removes this healthy oil as well, thus making your hair more prone to sun damage. Shampooing your hair a thrice a week is more than enough.

3. Apply stay-in conditioner:

When going to the beach or a swimming pool, apply a generous amount of some good quality stay-in conditioner to your locks. Run a wide toothed comb through your tresses to ensure even distribution of conditioner. Do not wash your hair. This will have a deep conditioning effect on your hair and will also protect it from sun damage.

4. Tie up your hair in braids or twists:

Tying up your hair in braids and twists ensure just a part of your hair is exposed to the sunlight. The lesser your locks are exposed to the UV rays of sun, the less they can get damaged. However, avoid wearing tight braids and pony tails.

5. Spritz some sunscreen:

For an added protection, spritz your locks with sunscreen. Take sunscreen lotion with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 25 or higher. Mix one teaspoon of this sunscreen with half cup of water and pour the concoction in a spray bottle. Take this bottle with you when going out in sun and keep spraying your hair every 2 to 3 hours while you are in sun.

6. Use hair care products with built-in protection:

Several lines of hair styling products contain ingredients that help protect your locks against sun damage, such as SPF and conditioner. Read the labels and go for the products with built in protection. However, avoid using the products with alcohol as an active ingredient as this can dry your hair and accelerate the drying effects of the sun.

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