The days are getting longer, and the weather is getting hotter. Summer is just around the corner, and people can’t wait to be outside and enjoy the warm weather. But with this beautiful season comes the harmful effects of the heat and sun. We all have been told multiple times to wear our sunscreen to protect our skin from the harmful sun rays, but did you know about the damage that can be done to your hair?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the harmful energy that radiates from the sun. It is true that we are prone to this energy throughout the entire year, even in winter, but it is at its peak during summer because of the extended hours of sun exposure. UV radiation is not only harmful, but it also benefits humans, our environment, and other living organisms. For example, UV Radiation in the form of UV-A plays a helpful role in the formation of Vitamin D by our skin. But it is also harmful by giving you a nasty sunburn.
Just like your skin, your hair can be harmed by UV radiation. Prolonged exposure can damage the cuticle (outermost part) of your hair strand. The hair cuticle is one of three major components of the hair strand; it protects the innermost layers of the hair shaft. The cuticle is a passageway for chemicals and ingredients to pass through to the cortex; which controls the thickness, color, and texture of the hair strand.
The typical signs of hair damage are discoloration, brittle strands, split ends, thinning and frizzing. Fine, light-colored hair is more susceptible to the damaging effects of the sun, because the hair lacks the thickness or the pigment that can protect it from the harmful UV rays.
Don’t be afraid. There are precautions you can take which will help prevent damage to your hair. First, make sure you wear a hat when you are expecting to be out in the sun for a long time. The hat can protect your head as well as the skin on your face from getting sunburned. Secondly, you should wash and oil your hair frequently. Washing your hair will keep it clean; removing excess dirt and bacteria. The oil will help keep your head moisturized and add a protective layer from the harmful UV Rays.
Have fun this summer, but make sure you are proactive with your hair care. Start taking care of your hair now and don’t wait till you start noticing the symptoms. There could be other reasons why your hair might be falling out or thinning, so we recommend that you consulate with a hair specialist and get all your questions answered.
Have you ever had any discoloration, splint ends or frizzing during the summer? What have you done to protect your hair? Please leave a comment below and let us know.