Sun protection should not only apply to your face; your hair also needs it! UV rays can alter its color, weaken each strand’s structure and lead to dry, brittle locks more prone to breakage.
As much as possible, the ideal way to protect your hair should be avoiding direct sunlight altogether and wearing a hat or scarf, but if that’s not an option try one of these SPF-infused hair products instead.
1. Mineral Powders
There are a variety of mineral powders that you can apply to your hair and scalp for sun protection, with Gwyneth Paltrow-approved Supergoop Poof 100% Mineral Part Powder SPF 35 being among the lightest options, while Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Spray may also provide effective UV ray shielding.
Instead of applying liquid sunscreens by massaging into the skin, hair products use a powder-to-gel formulation that’s easier to apply with a brush. Sprays and powder sunscreens also allow users to reapply throughout the day – something many dermatologists advise against doing with liquid sunblock.
Powder sunscreens are ideal for frequent reapplication, as they’re easy and mess-free applications akin to using setting powder for makeup application. Powder sunscreens also work wonders at protecting sensitive areas like the scalp that are vulnerable to burns but usually covered by hair.
If you prefer not carrying around separate powder sunscreen, use a protective hair mist instead. It is particularly suitable for fine strands and heat styling tools as well, protecting from both damage caused by heat as well as heat styling tools themselves. Products like the R+Co Sun Catcher Powder C Boosting Leave-In Conditioner or Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil may help.
2. Sprays
Sun protection should not only be limited to skin; hair should also benefit from it. Styling products formulated with SPF offer protection from UV damage while simultaneously acting as leave-in conditioners to keep it hydrated and manageable.
Make the switch to this sunscreen spray for hair and scalp with its lightweight formula that won’t weigh down your strands or leave them sticky, packed with antioxidant-rich ingredients like sunflower seed oil and glycerin to prevent dryness and preserve color fading.
Use this protective spray as a pre-styling step before blowdrying or straightening your strands, protecting them from heat damage while leaving silky-smooth and shiny locks. Crafted with plant-derived DayMoist CLR(tm), French Oak Extract and natural soothing ingredients such as organic aloe vera to form an invisible shield around each strand, providing heat damage protection and leaving silky-smooth locks without white casts – not even sun bleaching effects (where natural salty blonde hues become beachy golden hues over the summer), just be sure reapply as needed!
3. Creams & Lotions
The sun’s harsh UV rays can strip hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle and with faded color. But there are ways to avoid this happening – try not overexposing yourself during peak hours between 10 am and 4 pm when over-exposure could occur and protect your strands by doing things such as seeking shade instead of spending too much time outside during this period.
Utilizing UV protection hair spray is also beneficial; look for products containing sunblocking agents like avobenzone and benzophenone-4 as well as antioxidant-rich ingredients like shea butter or organic aloe vera. As for heat protectorants, consider those made from plant derived ingredients which are silicone- and alcohol-free such as our Thermal Shield Heat Protectant; this pre-styling product acts as an invisible shield between your strands and the heat of blow dryers, straighteners or curling irons – keeping heat at bay!
For further protection of your locks, consider styling them into a bun or braid for the day to reduce exposure to sunlight and cover yourself up with an elegant hat or scarf for extra sun protection.
4. Hats & Scarves
Hair damaged by sunlight may show itself through discoloration, dryness, brittleness or breakage – making styling and maintenance difficult.
Hats and scarves can be an easy, quick, and efficient way to safeguard your locks. Many styles offer UV protection. Look for wide brim hats with full coverage that come in dark hues as these offer maximum protection. There are even fabrics specially treated with sun protective treatments which you can find at sporting goods stores or manufacturers who specialize in such clothing.
This 100% silk scarf provides an impressive UPF rating with its bohemian batik pattern and lightweight design, making it versatile enough for head wrap, face mask and shawl use. Ethically crafted in the US to support women’s lives. Certified to block 98% to 99.9% of harmful UVA and UVB rays from reaching your skin this piece makes an essential addition to your sun care regimen.
