As the summer sun intensifies, so does the need to protect ourselves from its harmful effects. While we often focus on shielding our skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays, it's equally important to be mindful of the impact of these rays on our hair and eyes.
As a matter of fact, an article in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology reveals that just three hours of UV light exposure changes hair porosity, making our locks look dry and brittle. The sun is also known to cause premature skin ageing and serious eye conditions. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to protect your hair, skin, and eyes from UV rays, ensuring you enjoy the sunny days without compromising your health and beauty.
How UV rays damage hair
Just like your skin, your hair is vulnerable to damage from UV rays. Prolonged exposure to the sun can strip your hair of its natural moisture and proteins, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Hair care expert Emma Kelly also warns that sunny conditions negatively impact your hair's natural lipids and cause colour-treated hair to fade more quickly. Altogether, this makes for dull and lacklustre locks. Meanwhile, the outer layer of your hair, known as the cuticle, is most prone to UV damage, resulting in frizz and split ends.
Hair protection tips
Use UV-protective hair products
Invest in hair products specifically formulated with UV filters. These sprays, leave-in conditioners, and serums create a barrier between your hair and the sun, preventing damage and maintaining moisture. A popular option for this is Aveda's Protective Hair Veil, which acts as an invisible shield against the drying effects of UV rays. It's also water-resistant, so you can bring it to the beach or spritz it on before plunging into a pool for up to 16 hours of protection.
Remember to hydrate and condition
Deep conditioning treatments are essential during days when you know you'll be spending hours under the sun. This ensures that moisture is replenished, keeping your hair soft and shiny. Boost your hair care routine by regularly using the Cordina hair oil as a pre-wash treatment. It's 100% plant-based and free of synthetic ingredients, strengthening hair fibres all while improving manageability, softness, shine, and slip. After soaking, rinse the oil treatment away with the Cordina DIY Gentle Shampoo that you can make at home for best results.