The sun can be as damaging to your hair as it can be to your skin. So, we’ve rounded up the best ways to keep your scalp — and strands — protected.
The recent UK and European heatwave brought up the important topic of sun protection. While SPF awareness is widespread these days, the same can’t be said for the importance of protecting hair from the sun — most likely because the latter isn’t as widely discussed.
But, according to hairstylist Raul Torres, the sun can damage hair in a similar way to how it can impact the skin.
He goes on to say that UV rays can break down keratin and strip away lipids, which is what makes the hair flexible and glossy. This can also make the hair dry and prone to breakage.
Read more: Which hair oil is best for my hair type?
What are the signs of sun-damaged hair?
“Signs of sun-damaged hair include persistent dryness, even after conditioning; increased frizz; rough or straw-like texture; and split or white-tipped ends,” explains Raul.
He adds that excess sun exposure can also result in uneven hair colour — and these aren’t the sun-kissed highlights you want. “Sun exposure can also oxidise colour molecules in dyed hair, causing fading, brassiness and a loss of shine, especially in blonde or highlighted hair,” adds Raul.
How can I protect my hair from sun damage?
Sometimes, simplicity is best. “Physical protection is very effective,” says Raul.
A hat, headscarf or bandana create a direct barrier against UV rays. So, it’s always worth squeezing a hat into your hand luggage when packing for a sunny holiday.
That said, Raul recognises that physical protection like a hat isn’t always practical for all-day wear, “especially in heat or when styling matters”.
Read more: The best Dyson Supersonic Travel dupes for effortlessly perfect hair on holiday
What should you look for in a heat-protection product?
When searching for heat-protection hair products, there are certain ingredients to be aware of. “Look for products containing UV filters such as benzophenone-4 or ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, which help absorb or deflect UV rays before they damage the hair,” explains Raul.
A good heat-protection product should both protect and nourish your hair, rather than just one or the other. Key hydrating ingredients include coconut water, panthenol, aloe vera and oils.
“A good UV protectant should leave hair feeling nourished and protected without making it greasy or heavy,” adds Raul.
Top 5 sun-protection products for hair
Kérastase Soliel Bain Après-Soliel Shampoo
Raul explains “[the] soleil range contains integrated UV filters, coconut water and vitamin E to help shield strands from sun-induced dryness, colour fading and damage, while keeping hair softer, more manageable and better protected during sun exposure.”
This shampoo is ideal for washing the hair after a long day at the beach, it’s cleansing while still being nourishing after a day spent in the sun.
Buy now from Kérastase for £27.50
Caudalie High Protection Glow Oil SPF50
You’ll already know, we’re huge fans of French pharmacy buys. This Caudalie SPF50 oil spray can be used on the face, body and hair. Great as an all-in-one to lighten the load in your luggage.
“Lightweight oils can also help seal the cuticle and maintain moisture,” explains Raul. This Caudalie oil will leave your skin and hair with the most beautiful sheen, while protecting from the harsh sun rays.
Buy now from Cult Beauty for £22
Philip Kingsley Swimcap Water-Resistant Mask
When it comes to adding a protective layer to the hair, few products are as effective as the infamous Swimcap mask. This smart, water-resistant mask repels against chlorine and salt water, which can dry out the hair.
And if that wasn’t enough, the mask contains UV absorbers, which defend from that pesky discolouration caused by sun exposure.
Buy now from Look Fantastic for £26
Beauty Works Solaré UV Leave-in Conditioning Mist
“UV-protective hair sprays and leave-in conditioners with antioxidants help defend the hair fibre from oxidative stress and dehydration,” explains Raul.
This Beauty Works mist contains coconut oil, aloe vera and vitamin E to keep the hair moisturised and nourished, while UV filters protect the hair during sun exposure.
Buy now from Beauty Works for £13
Pantene Pro-V Sunkiss Glow Leave-in Spray
For those with thin hair, oil-based products and leave-in conditioners can leave hair feeling greasy. While offering protection from UV rays, salt water and chlorine, this non-oily formula from Pantene also has a light, refreshing scent, so it doubles as a hair perfume.
Buy now from Superdrug for £5.99
Feature image: Pexels
