How to protect your hair from the sun

28 November 2023 | By Shani Tsai

You wouldn’t dare step into the sun without SPF, but what are you doing to protect your hair and scalp from UV damage?

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After time in the sun there will be signs that your hair has been overexposed or unprotected… dry, dull, and brittle strands, and unmanageable hair is likely. After a long season of neglect, you’ll notice all-over split-ends. It’s a good idea to stick to the universal trimming rule (every 6-8 weeks), and to follow these tips…

A sun-safety refresher course

You’re likely dodging direct sunlight from 10am to 4pm for your skin’s sake… and your hair will thank you for it, too.

While you’re having fun in the sun, it’s a battle between the UV rays (UVA and UVB) and your hair strands. Without proper protection, it’s an easy win for Team UV as they weaken and break down the keratin (protein) that make up your hair, and the cuticles (the outside cover of the hair strand) will shows signs of defeat.

Sunlight also has an effect on hair colour as it bleaches out the melanin. But with each protective barrier we add – sunhats, moisture, hardworking products – it gets more difficult for the rays to penetrate the strands.

If you spend long hours in the pool or ocean, wear a swimming cap (cute ones exist, we promise!) or style your hair in a high-up bun if you’re going for a quick dip. Always rinse your hair with clean water when you’re done.

Let’s talk about types

Take extra care if you have fine or thin(ning) hair as it’s less able to withstand the UV rays. If you regularly colour your hair or use heated styling tools, be mindful that sun damage may be more likely due to already damaged keratin.

“Blonde and bleached hair are more prone to sun damage,” says Amiena Adams, senior hairstylist and manager of Carlton Hair Waterstone in Cape Town. “Curly hair, with its constant need for moisture, needs proper suncare before and after exposure.”

A product of proper protection

If you care for your hair, it’ll show. Amiena believes this is especially true during summer when there’s more sun, humidity, and pollution. You’ll likely be washing your hair more, so putting thought into the products you use is non-negotiable - good-quality shampoo and conditioner is a starting point.

Don’t wash your hair every day, though, as over-shampooing strips your scalp and hair of natural oils. If you’re desperate for a faux cleanse, rinse your hair with lukewarm water to rid it of pesky beach debris.

While hair sunscreens do exist, they’re yet to infiltrate the South African market so, for now, apply a thin layer of SPF to your exposed scalp. “If you lead an active, outdoor lifestyle, use a scalp scrub once a week to remove build-up,” says Amiena.

Our trusty skincare heroes come in to save the summer days for our hair, too. Pick products containing these ingredients: grapeseed oil, coconut, aloe, avocado and shea butter.

Various formulations work well for various reasons, and better on certain hair types. Look out for lightweight formulations like foams, mists and mousses for everyday styling, and indulge in masks, oil treatments or deep conditioner once a week.

Pump moisture back into your strands by applying an intensive mask (overnight ones are great). A serum is another way to care for your fragile strands, just remember not to apply it to your roots.

Handle the heat

You may want to give your hair a break from heated styling tools as they further irritate sun-damaged strands. The experts recommend wearing a microfibre or cotton hair wrap, or set your blowdryer to its lowest temperature. “When you dry your hair with a blowdryer, it changes water into moisture that seals into the cuticle. If you are using styling tools, use them properly, otherwise you risk burning your hair,” explains Amiena.

She adds that a hair diffuser can be gentler than a blowdryer if used correctly - apply a curling cream with heat protectant, and don’t wait until the hair’s completely dry; stop while it’s still damp.

Damage control

For a sunburnt scalp (it’ll be red, irritated, and sore), apply calming drops or a soothing oil and massage it into the skin. Look for products that have aloe or menthol to ease the burning sensation and opt for shampoos that are hypoallergenic or are specifically for sensitive skin.