How to Protect Your Hair from the Sun: Sun-Damaged Hair and Summer Hydration

While sunny summer days can seem like a dream, they can come at a cost to your hair. Sun exposure can lead to dullness, dryness and damage. Whether you’re jetting off on a tropical escape or simply enjoying a summer in the city, Laura Elliott, Head of Education at Neäl & Wølf shares everything you need to know about how to protect your hair from the sun, including tips on sun-damaged hair and summer hydration.

Is the sun good for your hair?

All good things come in moderation. Sun exposure can encourage your body to increase its vitamin D, which can help with healthy hair growth. The sun can also give your hair natural highlights, as the UV rays react with the melanin in hair, causing it to break down and lose its colour.

How does the sun damage hair?

The sun can have a serious impact on your hair if you don’t take precautions. UV rays break down keratin, the protein that forms the structure of your hair, leaving strands weak and porous. The light can be a particular risk to coloured hair, as it can accelerate fading, leading to brassy and uneven tones.

What does burnt hair look like?

The first sign of sun-damaged or burnt hair is often colour fading or brassiness in strands. You may also see a visible loss of shine, as hair becomes dull, lacklustre, and straw-like in texture - especially towards the ends. In addition, sun-weakened strands are more prone to snapping, frizz and tangling.

How do you protect your hair against the sun?

Sun-damaged hair can be a worry, especially in the summer months. But don’t fear - these are some steps you can take to protect against the harmful rays, keeping your hair supple and hydrated.

1. Cover up with a hat, scarf, or umbrella

One of the best ways to keep your hair safe is by blocking the sun’s rays. This could be wearing an elegant wide-brimmed hat, tying a lightweight silk scarf around your hair, holding a parasol when out and about, or propping an umbrella up next to your sunbed as you bathe.

2. Use UV protective products

UV protection isn’t just for your skin - your hair needs guarding from the sun too. Choose products that act as sunscreen for your strands, with a shield against UV, like our MIRACLE Rapid Blow-Dry Mist. The ultra-lightweight conditioners stop the cuticles from becoming damaged from heat - both from heat styling products and the sun. Simply spritz over hair before you venture outside.

3. Consider a hair mask to moisturise

Hair masks are one of the best ways to keep your hair hydrated, especially when out in the sun! Lather on a solution like our HYDRATE Moisture Hair Mask, cover your hair with a soft scarf, and leave on for a few hours. You could even sleep overnight in the mask after a day of being out in the sun, moisturising your thirsty locks as you nap.

4. Use nourishing shampoo and conditioner

Your daily haircare routine can help keep your tresses replenished. For best results, look for ingredients in shampoo and conditioner that soften and condition without weighing your hair down. Our HYDRATE Moisture Shampoo and HYDRATE Moisture Conditioner are enriched with argan oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, and shea butter, working to help lock moisture in. For the best travel solution, check out our hydrating travel products: HYDRATE Mini Essentials Collection

5. Keep out of harm’s way

One of the simplest ways to prevent hair becoming burnt and dehydrated? Stay out of the sun! The sun’s UV levels  are at their strongest between 11am and 3pm, so seek shade when you can during these times. It can also be a good idea to balance your time between sun and shade, rather than prolonging the exposure and stress on your strands.

6. Add a shine

The sun can leave hair looking flat, matte and dull. To get your glow back, use shine-enhancing products like our GLOW Super Shine Spray - just spritz over dry hair for locks that reflect light. In addition to the brilliant shimmer, your hair will be left smooth and frizz-free!

7. Apply scalp suncream

Your scalp is often the first place to feel the sting of sunburn. This can be very painful, especially when you’re brushing your hair at the end of the day! Invest in a light, non-greasy scalp SPF or a protective mist designed for sensitive skin. These products can be absorbed easily without making your hair feel greasy and heavy.

8. Hydrate your body

Haircare starts with wellness. Keeping on top of your water isn’t just good for your skin and energy levels - it also supports healthy hair growth. Make sure you sip water throughout the day, especially when you’re out in the sun. You could also complement this with water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber and leafy greens.

9. Try an updo

Styling your hair into an updo does more than just keep you cool - it protects your ends from sun exposure and friction. Try to choose a look that doesn’t have a parting, which can leave your scalp burnt and exposed - buns and ponytails are a top pick! Read more summer hair ideas: Summer Hair Trends

10. Take extra care with heat styling

Summer is the perfect time to embrace effortless, undone hair like beach waves. If you do need to turn up the heat, use a protective spray to prevent further stress on your hair after the sun. Our GUARD Heat Protection Spray shields your hair from up to 220°C, whilst also containing wheat protein to lock in moisture. Just apply to wet or dry hair before styling.

Summer hair, protected and radiant

Sunshine should never come at the cost of healthy, beautiful hair. By using protective styling, hydrating treatments, and luxurious haircare essentials, you can enjoy every golden moment. Browse our nourishing range to keep locks nourished and moisturised: HYDRATE Moisture Collection

Going abroad this season? Read our blog for more hacks to keep your hair in amazing condition: Holiday Haircare Tips