The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Hair in the Summer Sun

Summer vibes are upon us… get ready for beach days, pool parties, and endless soaking up the sunshine. If you’re lucky enough to be jetting off to sunnier places we’ve got you covered with tips and products to keep your hair healthy, nourished and protected.

While most of us diligently apply sunscreen to protect our skin, we often overlook the impact of the sun, sea, and chlorine on our hair. But the truth is our hair needs just as much protection during the summer months.

Here’s why protecting your hair in the sun is crucial and how you can maintain luscious locks even in the hottest weather.

Why is summer hair protection so important?

Sun Damage

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can wreak havoc on your hair. Prolonged exposure can lead to:

• Dryness and Brittle Texture: UV rays strip away the natural oils that keep your hair moisturised, resulting in dryness and breakage.
• Colour Fading: If you have colour-treated hair, the sun can cause your gorgeous vibrant colour to fade quickly.
• Weakened Hair Structure: Overexposure can weaken the protein structure of your hair, making it more susceptible to damage and split ends.

Sea and Chlorine Damage

Who doesn’t love summertime swimming?! But both saltwater and chlorine can be detrimental to your hair.

• Saltwater: While nothing beats a dip in the ocean, saltwater can dehydrate your hair, leaving it rough and prone to tangling.
• Chlorine: Pool chemicals, particularly chlorine, can strip your hair of its natural oils and protective barriers. This can lead to dryness, brittleness, and even a greenish tint, especially in blonde hair.

Don’t Just Focus on Sunscreen for Skin

Using products with UV protection for your hair is a must. Here’s a step-by-step routine to keep your hair healthy and beautiful all summer long.

Step-by-Step Routine for Sun-Proofing Your Hair

1. Start with a good Shampoo and Conditioner:

• Hydrating Shampoo: Begin with a sulphate-free hydrating shampoo. Look for ingredients like Coconut Oil, Glycerin, and Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate and revive. The new Coco Beach Waves Shampoo hydrates dry, sun damaged hair as it lifts away product, sand and sea build-up.
• Deep Conditioning: For extra nourishment use a Hair Mask once a week – Urgent Repair is packed Avocado Oil and Kale extract to repair, nourish, moisturise and add shine

2. Use a Leave-In Conditioner with UV Protection:

After washing your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner that contains UV protection. Look for lightweight formulas that won’t weigh your hair down. The new Swim Poof Hair Protection Cream has got your covered with a protective barrier to shield from the sun’s rays, chlorine and salt water.  

3. Apply a Hair Sunscreen or UV Protectant Cream:

Just like your skin, your hair needs sunscreen. Use products with UV protection before heading out like new Mermaid Beach Waves Wave Maker Volume Mousse and Swim Poof Hair Protection Cream.

4. Wear a Hat

• Physical Barrier: A hat not only adds a chic touch to your summer outfit but also provides a physical barrier against the sun. Wide-brimmed hats offer the best coverage.

5. Limit Heat Styling

• Reduce Heat Damage: Summer is the perfect time to embrace your natural texture. Minimize the use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons to prevent additional damage and bring out your natural curl or wave pattern with the Boho Beach Waves Styling Duo

6. Rinse Hair After Swimming

• Fresh Water Rinse: After swimming in the sea or a chlorinated pool, rinse your hair with fresh water immediately. This helps remove salt and chlorine residues that can be drying and damaging.

7. Use a Clarifying Shampoo

• Remove Build-Up: Once a week, use a clarifying shampoo to remove any build-up from styling products, chlorine, and saltwater. This will keep your scalp and hair clean and healthy. The Frizz Fix™ Shampoo uses metal detox technology to remove dulling build up.

Summer proofing your hair is super easy! By adding these steps into your routine, you can enjoy summertime fun without compromising the health of your hair. Remember just like your skin, your hair deserves to be shielded from the harsh effects of the sun, sea, and chlorine. With the right care, you can keep your hair looking radiant and feeling strong all summer long. So embrace the summer sun responsibly and let your hair glow!