How to Care for Sun-Damaged Hair
Protecting and Treating Sun-Damaged Hair
As the warmer months beckon, our thoughts turn to glorious days outdoors. The sun’s golden rays brighten our days and uplift our spirits, but too much exposure can leave the hair looking dull, dry and weakened.
At Jo Hansford, we emphasise the importance of caring for your hair throughout the year, particularly during the sunnier months when ultraviolet rays are at their strongest.
This guide explains how to prevent and treat sun-damaged hair, helping it to remain healthy-looking, vibrant and beautifully conditioned throughout the summer.
HOW HAIR BECOMES DAMAGED BY THE SUN
Sun damage is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays. These rays can break down the hair’s natural proteins, particularly keratin, which plays an important role in maintaining strength and elasticity.
Colour fading
UV rays can lighten the hair and cause coloured hair to lose depth, tone and vibrancy.
Dry, brittle texture
As the hair’s proteins are weakened, it can begin to feel dry and brittle and may become more prone to breakage.
Split ends
Increased dryness can cause the ends to become frayed, rough and visibly split.
Frizz and tangles
A roughened cuticle can make the hair more likely to tangle and develop a frizzy appearance.
Scalp damage
The scalp can also become sunburnt, particularly around exposed partings or areas where the hair is finer.
HOW TO RECOGNISE SUN-DAMAGED HAIR
Sun-damaged hair often appears dry, dull and depleted of moisture. It may have a rough texture, feel less manageable and show more frizz or tangling than usual.
The ends may appear excessively dry or split, while coloured hair can look faded or noticeably warmer in tone. If the scalp feels tender or begins to peel, it may have been sunburnt following excessive UV exposure.
GUARDING YOUR HAIR AGAINST THE SUN
Prevention is one of the most effective ways to protect the condition, colour and appearance of your hair during periods of strong sunshine.
Wear a hat or scarf
Covering the hair provides a physical barrier against UV rays and helps to protect both the hair and scalp.
Use UV-protective hair care
Just as the skin needs protection, the hair benefits from products designed to shield it from environmental exposure while maintaining moisture.
Protect exposed partings
A lightweight sun-protection product suitable for the scalp can be carefully applied to exposed partings to help reduce the risk of burning.
Minimise peak exposure
Where possible, avoid extended periods in direct sunlight during the strongest part of the day and seek shade regularly.
USE A HAIR SUNSCREEN
Hair care with UV-protective properties can provide valuable support during sunny weather. Kérastase Soleil Crème UV Sublime is designed for regular use and helps to nourish the hair while protecting it from the drying effects associated with sun exposure.
Apply the product through the mid-lengths and ends before spending time outdoors, concentrating on areas that are most exposed to sunlight.
Shop Kérastase hair careREVIVING SUN-DAMAGED HAIR
If the hair has already experienced the drying effects of UV exposure, a carefully chosen restorative routine can help to replenish moisture, improve manageability and restore a smoother, healthier-looking finish.
INTENSIVE HAIR MASQUES
Regular use of a deep-conditioning masque can help to replenish moisture and improve the feel of hair that has become dry or rough after sun exposure.
We recommend the Jo Hansford Intensive Masque, which provides rich conditioning care and helps to restore softness, shine and manageability.
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HYDRATING SHAMPOOS AND CONDITIONERS
After sun exposure, choose products that support hydration and help to smooth the hair’s surface.
Our Anti-Frizz collection is an excellent option for a restorative after-sun routine. It helps to soften the hair, improve manageability and reduce the appearance of frizz caused by dryness.
Shop hydrating hair careLIGHTWEIGHT OPTIONS
For those who find richer conditioning products too heavy, the Jo Hansford Volumising or Everyday collections offer lighter alternatives.
These ranges provide essential hydration and care while helping to preserve movement, body and volume rather than weighing the hair down.
Explore all Jo Hansford productsPERSONALISED SUMMER HAIR CARE
Caring for your hair in the sun is as important as protecting your skin. By reducing prolonged UV exposure and using products suited to your hair type, you can help to maintain condition, shine and colour throughout the summer.
Our salon team can assess the current condition of your hair and recommend the most appropriate colour care, conditioning treatment and home-care routine.
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