Your hair needs sun protection too, not just your skin

Sunscreen has established itself as the most important skincare ingredient over time. Justifiably, it shields the skin from the sun's damaging rays and guards against cancer, pigmentation, early aging, and dull complexion.

As summer approaches, we make sure to apply SPF every day to shield our skin from the damaging sun's rays. What if we told you that sun protection is equally necessary for your hair? If sun protection for hair is not on your list of priorities for your beauty routine, you are seriously missing out.

The sun’s UVB radiation causes hair protein loss, while UVA radiation can cause your hair colour to fade.

How the sun affects hair

“Sun protection for hair is important year-round, but it's especially crucial during the summer when UV radiation is typically stronger. Just like our skin, our hair can also suffer damage from exposure to the sun,” says Dr Priti Karde Shringarpure, a Mumbai-based cosmetologist, trichologist, dermatologist and laser surgeon.

Ritu Vijayvergiya, co-founder of haircare brand 2.Oh!, explains: “Prolonged exposure to the sun can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to moisture loss and limp, lifeless hair. The sun’s UV rays can break down hair proteins, causing weakened hair.”

Basically, if you don’t sun-protect your hair, it can lead to:

• Dry, brittle hair
• Hair loss
• Split ends
• Colour fading (whether natural or dyed)

Even the scalp suffers from prolonged sun exposure. “The scalp, being skin, can suffer from sunburn, which not only causes discomfort but also can potentially lead to long-term damage,” says Dr Charu Sharma, head of dermatology, Cureskin.

How to prevent your hair from sun damage

Simple steps go a long way when it comes to hair sun protection. Something as basic as covering your head with a scarf while stepping out helps. Additionally, there are plenty of products available in the market that you can use to prevent your locks from becoming lacklustre.

Wear hats and scarves

Those hats and scarves lying in your cupboard are more than pretty-looking accessories. Utilise them to cover your head as you step out.

“Wearing a wide-brimmed hat or a scarf can provide a physical barrier against the sun's rays, offering the best protection for hair and scalp,” says Dr Charu Sharma.

Limit sun exposure

During summers when the sun is blazing, try to minimise exposure to direct sunlight.

“Remember, reducing your time in the sun during peak hours (usually 10 am to 4 pm) can significantly decrease the UV damage your hair receives. Consider heading out early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun's rays aren't as strong,” says Dr Meghna Mour, dermatologist, cosmetologist, trichologist and laser specialist and founder of Skuccii Supercliniq, Mumbai.

Protective hairstyles

Experts also suggest opting for hairstyles that keep hair off the shoulders and neck. Dr Shringarpure suggests braids, buns or twists.

Regular conditioning

Experts highly recommend regular use of conditioners to keep the tresses well moisturised. Using good quality conditioners and deep conditioning masks helps maintain hair hydration and resilience.

UV-protection products for hair

Just like sunscreen for the skin, there are products specifically formulated to protect hair from UV radiation.

From sprays to leave-in conditioners and serums, a wide range of products now comes loaded with SPF benefits. They contain UV filters and form a protective layer on the hair to shield your mane from harmful UV rays.

The ingredients to look for:

• “These hair sunscreens often contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which absorb and reflect UV rays. When looking for a hair sunscreen, keep an eye out for key ingredients like organic UV filters such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide,” says Dr Mour.
• “For added protection against UVA and UVB rays, look for serums with Vitamin C and E, or green tea extract. To ensure the best protection for your locks, try to find a hair sunscreen product that contains a mix of these ingredients,” she adds.
• Ritu Vijayvergiya of 2.Oh! suggests using leave-in conditioners with ingredients like ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, which absorb UVB rays, to shield your hair from sun damage.
• “Argan oil works like a natural sunscreen, so if your hair is already damaged, use products with argan oil to combat damage, restore moisture, and maintain hair health,” Vijayvergiya adds.

The DIY ways to control sun damage

There are several home remedies that you can benefit from. However, they provide some level of protection for your hair and may not be as effective as commercial hair sunscreens.

Curd hair mask:

Mix one cup of curd with two tablespoons of honey and one tablespoon of olive oil. Mix them all well and apply the mixture to your hair and scalp. Rinse with water and shampoo after 30 minutes,

“Rich in proteins and lactic acid, curd helps nourish and strengthen hair, repairing damage caused by sun exposure. It also provides a cooling effect, reducing scalp irritation from UV rays,” says Vijayvergiya.

Aloe vera mask:

Here is a hair mask recipe suggested by Dr Mour: Mix one tablespoon each of aloe vera, coconut oil, sea salt, and honey in a bowl. Apply the mask to your hair and let it sit for 30 minutes before washing it out.

Green tea rinse:

Brew a strong cup of green tea, allow it to cool, and then pour it over your hair as a final rinse after shampooing and conditioning. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it out with water.

Don’t miss the champi!

Remember to oil your hair regularly (once a week is also good) to shield it from the sun.

“Coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil are all great options,” says Dr Mour.

Whether this summer is all about being at the beach or just another season spent heading to and fro the office, hair SPF deserves your attention.