Summer is here and you just can’t wait to soak up that sweet, sweet, vitamin D. But as great as the sun feels, especially after a long winter, its UV rays can leave your tresses looking dry, damaged, and discolored. Disappointing, we know. The good news is that you don’t have to throw shade to the sun entirely. Read on to learn how to fix sun damaged hair and what you can do to prevent it.
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Can The Sun Damage Your Hair?
A resounding yes. Too much of anything can be a bad thing. When you’re lounging in the sun, its UV rays will slowly but surely break down the lipids on your hair strand.
The sun can also compromise your hair’s keratin, the protein that makes up your hair, resulting in negative effects like breakage, brittleness, and frizz. Those who have bleached or dyed natural hair are particularly vulnerable.
How To Tell If You Have Sun Damaged Hair
Now that you know the sun and your hair are not friends, you might be wondering whether or not you have sun damaged hair. You might have sun damaged hair if:
1. It’s Less Vibrant
Are your locks looking a little lackluster? Sun exposure can cause your hair's pigments to fade, resulting in a dull appearance. If your hair isn’t as shiny as it used to be or appears washed out, it may be a result of sun damage.
2. It’s Brittle or Breaking Off
Got split ends or a comb full of hair? The sun weakens the structure of your strands. If you notice an increase in split ends, frayed strands, or hair that easily breaks when you comb or brush it, it could be a sign of sun damage.
3. It’s Frizzy or Dry to the Touch
If your hair feels rough, straw-like, or excessively dry, even after using conditioning treatments, it may be a sign of sun damage. That’s because the sun strips away moisture and your hair’s natural oils.
How To Fix Sun Damaged Hair
Think you might have sun damaged hair? Don’t worry. While it may take a little trial and error to find the perfect treatment for your locks, reversing the damage is doable.
Use Hair Masks
Hair masks are like miracle workers for your tresses. Look for masks specifically formulated to repair and restore damaged hair. Deep moisture masks are packed with nourishing ingredients that can hydrate your locks at the roots, leaving them feeling silky smooth. Hair mayonnaise treatments can also help moisturize and fortify stressed out strands. Treat yourself to a hair mask once or twice a week, and let those nourishing ingredients work their magic.
Add Some Moisture
Is your hair parched? Give your locks something to sip on this summer. Sun exposure can suck the moisture right out of your hair, leaving it dry and thirsty. Combat this by incorporating moisture-rich products into your hair care routine. Choose shampoos and conditioners that provide intense hydration for maximum smoothness.
Try Oil Treatments
Hair oils can be a game-changer for sun damaged hair. Coconut oil, argan oil, sesame oil, and jojoba oil are all fantastic options to replenish and nourish your hair—especially if you are a curly guy or gal. Apply a small amount of oil to your hair, focusing on the ends, and leave it in for a few hours or overnight. Wash it out and notice the night-and-day difference.
How To Prevent Hair Sun Damage With AFAM
When it comes to hair sun damage, the best defense is a good offense. If your hair needs some TLC, check out our collection of thirst-quenching hair products for dry, damaged hair. Explore our entire collection of curl-safe products for thirsty hair.
But don’t stop there. Remember to wear a hat for those long days of sun exposure and continue to use hair treatments throughout the summer season. Beat the heat and shop now.