As we become more conscious of the effects of sun exposure on our skin, it’s crucial not to overlook another part of our body that needs protection: our hair. Just like our skin, our hair and scalp can suffer from the damaging effects of UV rays, leading to a host of issues from dryness to discoloration. In this blog post, we will explore how the sun can damage your hair, what ingredients can help protect and fix sun damage, and highlight some of the best-selling products that can protect and repair your scalp and hair from the sun.

How the Sun Can Damage Your Hair

1. Dryness and Brittleness

Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can strip moisture from your hair, leading to dryness and brittleness. The UV rays break down the hair’s natural oils, leaving it parched and more prone to breakage.

2. Discoloration

Just as the sun can cause your skin to tan or burn, it can also alter the color of your hair. UV rays break down the pigment molecules in your hair, which can lead to discoloration, especially in color-treated hair. This can result in faded, brassy, or uneven tones.

3. Weakening of Hair Structure

UV rays can penetrate the outer layer of your hair, damaging the inner structure. This leads to weakened hair shafts, making your hair more susceptible to breakage and split ends.

4. Loss of Shine

Healthy hair has a natural sheen, but sun exposure can lead to a loss of this shine. The damage to the hair’s cuticle (the outermost layer) causes the hair to become rough and dull.

5. Scalp Damage

It’s not just your hair that suffers from sun exposure; your scalp can also take a hit. Sunburn on the scalp can be painful and lead to peeling, dryness, and even hair loss in severe cases.

Ingredients That Help Protect & Fix Sun Damage

1. Sunscreens and UV Protectants

Products containing UV filters or sunscreens help to block harmful rays from penetrating the hair shaft and scalp. Look for ingredients like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and avobenzone.

2. Antioxidants

Antioxidants like vitamins C and E, green tea extract, and ferulic acid help to neutralize free radicals caused by UV exposure. These ingredients protect the hair and scalp from oxidative stress and damage.

3. Moisturizing Agents

Ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and natural oils (argan oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil) help to restore moisture lost due to sun exposure. These ingredients help to rehydrate and nourish the hair, making it softer and more manageable.

4. Proteins

Proteins like keratin, collagen, and silk proteins help to strengthen the hair shaft and repair damage caused by UV rays. These proteins fill in the gaps in the hair cuticle, making the hair stronger and more resilient.

5. Botanical Extracts

Botanical extracts like aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula soothe the scalp and reduce inflammation caused by sunburn. These extracts also provide moisture and healing properties to the hair and scalp.

Best-Selling Products for Sun Protection and Repair

1. Coola Scalp & Hair Mist Organic Sunscreen SPF 30

This lightweight, water-resistant mist provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, helping to shield your scalp and hair from harmful UV rays. It’s infused with monoi oil and gotu kola extract to nourish and hydrate your hair while protecting it from sun damage. The mist is easy to apply and doesn’t leave a greasy residue, making it perfect for daily use.

How it protects and repairs:

• UV Protection: Provides SPF 30 protection to prevent UV damage.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Monoi oil and gotu kola extract hydrate and protect the hair.

2. Klorane Soothing SOS Scalp Serum with Peony

Klorane’s Soothing SOS Scalp Serum is designed to calm and soothe a sun-exposed scalp. Peony extract is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and discomfort caused by sunburn. The serum provides immediate relief and hydration to the scalp, making it a must-have for those with sensitive or sunburned scalps.

How it protects and repairs:

• Soothing Ingredients: Peony extract calms and soothes the scalp.
• Hydration: Provides immediate moisture to alleviate dryness and discomfort.

3. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50

This innovative brush-on sunscreen is perfect for on-the-go protection. It provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection and is infused with antioxidants to protect against environmental damage. The mineral powder formula is non-greasy and easy to apply, making it ideal for protecting both your scalp and hair from UV rays.

How it protects and repairs:

• UV Protection: Broad-spectrum SPF 50 to shield against UV rays.
• Antioxidants: Protect against environmental damage.

4. MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40

The MDSolarSciences Solar Stick offers broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection in a convenient stick form. It’s enriched with shea butter and vitamin C, which provide nourishment and protection for both your hair and scalp. The stick is easy to apply and perfect for targeted protection on the go.

How it protects and repairs:

• UV Protection: SPF 40 to protect against sun damage.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Shea butter and vitamin C hydrate and protect.

5. EltaMD UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

EltaMD’s UV Stick provides high-level SPF 50+ protection in an easy-to-use stick format. It contains zinc oxide, a mineral sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection without irritating the scalp. The stick is also water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How it protects and repairs:

• UV Protection: Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ for maximum protection.
• Non-Irritating: Zinc oxide provides gentle, effective sun protection.

6. Living Proof Restore Repair Mask

This deeply conditioning mask is designed to repair and protect hair from damage, including that caused by sun exposure. It contains Living Proof’s patented Healthy Hair Molecule (OFPMA) and a blend of conditioning agents that restore the hair’s moisture balance and repair damage. The mask leaves hair stronger, smoother, and more resilient to future damage.

How it protects and repairs:

• Repairing Ingredients: OFPMA and conditioning agents repair and strengthen hair.
• Moisture Restoration: Restores moisture balance to prevent dryness and brittleness.

Tips for Protecting Your Hair from the Sun

1. Wear a Hat: One of the simplest ways to protect your hair and scalp from the sun is to wear a hat. Choose a wide-brimmed hat that provides ample shade and covers your hair completely.
2. Use UV Protection Products: Incorporate hair products that offer UV protection into your routine. Look for leave-in conditioners, sprays, and serums that contain UV filters.
3. Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Try to avoid being in direct sunlight during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
4. Rinse Your Hair: After spending time in the sun, rinse your hair with cool water to remove any saltwater or chlorine, which can exacerbate sun damage.
5. Deep Condition Regularly: Use a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week to replenish lost moisture and repair damage caused by the sun.
6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your hair and scalp hydrated from the inside out.