These hair-care solutions turn the season into one that promises simple beauty. And isn’t that what summer’s all about?
Can hair become sunburned?
Your hair may feel "fried" after a day at the beach but hair can’t technically burn because it’s not alive. Sun exposure will, however, damage your hair’s natural protective film. According to a study by the Renee Furterer Research Center, after just three days of sun exposure, the scale-like cells that cover each individual hair shaft begin to pull off. This makes your hair dry, dull, fragile and brittle. Choose hair products containing sunscreen since hair can suffer damaging effects from the sun if not well-protected.
How does sun exposure affect color-treated hair?
Hair that has been dyed or highlighted (stripped of it’s natural color) is especially prone to UV damage, according to Nancy Hamm, a senior scientist for Pantene. "Color-treated hair is already damaged, the sun will make the cuticle even rougher which makes hair more fragile and dried out.
What’s the best way to prevent sun damage to hair?
Look for a product that contains an oil or sun protectant. Frederic Fekkai’s Sun Protectant for Hair contains a sunscreen and shea butter which super-moisturizes hair. The French line Phytoplage was developed to protect hair from splitting and breaking in the sun in the early 1970s. The classic Phytoplage Oils contains oak acron extract oil which shields the hair from the sun. In a newer, lighter product called Phytoplage Protective Sun Veil, sunflower oil is used as a sun filter. Renee Furterer has a Sun Mousse containing jojoba wax to form an invisible protective coating on the hair. Whatever you use, apply it liberally and often, especially after you’ve been swimming.
How does chlorine and salt affect hair?
Both chlorine and salt water dry and discolor hair, according to Hamm from Pantene. "Chemicals in pool water bind to the hair and can give hair a grayish or green cast. Mineral deposits in salt water, in combination with sunlight, severely dehydrate hair and can turn it brassy." Rinse hair in fresh water immediately before and after swimming in a pool or sea water. (Wet hair will absorb less chlorine than dry hair.) Club soda makes a good post-pool rinse, or try a shampoo designed to remove chlorine and salt from the hair.
What’s the best way to treat hair that’s been sun damaged?
Deep condition your hair using a product containing keratin, jojoba oil, wheat germ protein or other natural ingredients that increase moisture, shine and elasticity. Leave-in conditioners can be especially good choices during the summer months since heat helps activate the ingredients to better penetrate the hair. If your hair seems dull, condition after shampooing then rinse it with a mixture of vinegar and water. Finally, schedule trims for the beginning and end of the summer season to rid your hair of dry, older ends and keep your cut in shape.
