Everyone loves soaking up the sun, especially during the summer season. But little do we know that the sun’s harmful UV rays can cause havoc to our skin, and most especially, our hair.

Sun damage can cause hair to become dry, brittle, and even start to break. But don’t worry because we got your back! Here are 30 of the best ways to protect your hair from sun damage.

1. Put on a Hat

One of the best ways to protect your hair from the sun is by wearing a hat. A wide-brimmed hat can provide shade not only to your face and neck but also to your hair.

Remember to choose a hat made of breathable material to keep your scalp cool and comfortable.

2. Use a Headscarf

Another fashionable way to protect your hair from the sun is by using a headscarf. Just like a hat, a headscarf can provide shade to your hair. Plus, it can also add some style to your summer outfit.

3. Apply Sunscreen

Yes, you read that right. Just like how you put sunscreen on your skin, you should also put sunscreen on your hair. There are a lot of hair products in the market that contain SPF, so make sure to use them.

Apply sunscreen only on the hair strands and avoid the scalp if you have sensitive skin.

4. Apply Hair Oil

Applying hair oil to your hair strands can also help provide a layer of protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Hair oils can help lock in moisture and prevent your hair from becoming dry and brittle.

You can use natural oils like coconut oil, argan oil, or jojoba oil.

5. Keep Your Hair Hydrated

Sun exposure can cause your hair to lose moisture, so it’s essential to keep your hair hydrated. Use a moisturizing conditioner after shampooing your hair. You can also use a leave-in conditioner to help retain moisture in your hair.

6. Don’t Overwash Your Hair

Overwashing your hair can strip away its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. To protect your hair from sun damage, only wash your hair every other day or every two days.

This way, your hair can retain its natural oils, which can help protect it from the sun.

7. Use a Wide-Tooth Comb

Using a wide-tooth comb can prevent your hair from getting tangled and breaking. It’s important to use a comb with big spaces in between the teeth to avoid tugging and pulling on your hair, which can cause damage.

8. Avoid Heat Styling

Curling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers can cause significant damage to your hair. If possible, avoid using heat-styling tools during sunny weather. Opt for natural hairstyles like braids, buns, or ponytails.

9. Wear Protective Hairstyles

Protective hairstyles like braids, twists, and cornrows can help protect your hair from the sun’s harmful rays. These hairstyles create a barrier between your hair and the sun, helping to prevent damage.

Plus, they’re also low-maintenance and perfect for summer activities.

10. Rinse Your Hair with Cold Water

After swimming in a pool or the ocean, rinse your hair with cold water. Cold water can help seal in moisture, preventing your hair from becoming dry and brittle.

Additionally, rinsing your hair with cold water can also help remove any chlorine or saltwater residue that can cause damage.

11. Wear a Swim Cap

If you plan on swimming in a pool or the ocean, consider wearing a swim cap. A swim cap can protect your hair from chlorine and saltwater, which can cause significant damage.

12. Invest in a Sun Hat

A sun hat is different from a regular hat, specifically designed to provide sun protection. Sun hats are made of materials that can block harmful UV rays from the sun, providing extra protection to your hair and scalp.

13. Apply a Hair Mask

Applying a hair mask can help keep your hair healthy and hydrated. A hair mask can penetrate deep into your hair strands, nourishing them and protecting them from sun damage. Use a hair mask once a week for best results.

14. Trim Your Hair Regularly

Regular hair trimming can help keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends. Split ends can make your hair look dull and lifeless, making it easier for the sun’s rays to penetrate. Trim your hair every six to eight weeks to prevent split ends.

15. Avoid Tight Hairstyles

Tight hairstyles like high ponytails, tight braids, and buns can cause tension on your hair strands, leading to damage. Tight hairstyles can also cause your scalp to become irritated, making it more sensitive to the sun.

Opt for loose hairstyles to avoid damage.

16. Use a Cotton T-Shirt to Dry Your Hair

Using a cotton t-shirt to dry your hair is a gentler alternative to towel-drying. T-shirts are softer than towels, and they can help prevent frizz and breakage.

Additionally, towel-drying can remove too much moisture from your hair, making it more vulnerable to sun damage.

17. Use a Heat Protectant

If you have to use heat-styling tools, make sure to use a heat protectant spray. Heat protectant sprays can help shield your hair from the heat, preventing it from becoming dry and brittle.

Use a heat protectant spray every time you use heat-styling tools.

18. Don’t Brush Your Hair When Wet

Brushing your hair when it’s wet can cause significant damage, leading to breakage and hair loss. When your hair is wet, it’s more susceptible to damage because it’s weaker.

Instead of brushing, use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair.

19. Use a Clarifying Shampoo

Over time, styling products and environmental factors can build up on your hair, making it harder for moisture to penetrate. Use a clarifying shampoo once a month to remove buildup and allow your conditioner to penetrate better.

20. Protect Your Hair When Sleeping

Protecting your hair even when sleeping can help prevent sun damage. Use a silk or satin pillowcase to avoid hair breakage and protect your hair against friction. Additionally, you can also use a hair bonnet to cover your hair while sleeping.

21. Apply Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Apple cider vinegar rinse can help restore the pH balance of your hair and scalp, making it more resistant to sun damage.

Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water, apply it to your hair after shampooing, and leave it for a few minutes before rinsing.

22. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking enough water is essential for hair health. Staying hydrated can help keep your hair healthy and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle. Drink at least eight glasses of water every day to keep your hair and body healthy.

23. Use Hair Accessories

Using hair accessories like clips, headbands, and hats can add an extra layer of protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Just make sure to choose hair accessories made of breathable materials to prevent your scalp from overheating.

24. Protect Your Scalp

Most people forget that the scalp is also vulnerable to sun damage. Use hair products that have SPF to protect your scalp from the sun’s rays. You can also wear a hat or use a headscarf to provide extra protection.

25. Avoid Chemical Treatments

If possible, avoid chemical treatments like hair dyeing and perming during the summer season. Chemical treatments can make your hair more vulnerable to sun damage and cause significant damage in the long run.

26. Apply Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel can help soothe sunburn and provide extra hydration to your hair. Apply a generous amount of aloe vera gel to your hair after being exposed to the sun. Leave it for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.

27. Choose Protective Hair Products

Choosing hair products that provide extra protection can help keep your hair healthy and prevent sun damage. Look for hair products that contain natural oils, plant extracts, and SPF.

Additionally, avoid hair products made with harsh chemicals that can strip away moisture from your hair.

28. Avoid Sun Exposure During Peak Hours

The sun’s rays are strongest from 10 am to 4 pm. Avoid sun exposure during these hours to prevent damage to your hair and skin. If possible, stay in the shade during these hours or wear protective clothing.

29. Use a Leave-In Conditioner

Using a leave-in conditioner can help keep your hair hydrated and healthy. Leave-in conditioners can provide extra protection from the sun’s harmful rays, preventing your hair from becoming dry and brittle.

30. Eat a Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet that’s rich in vitamins and minerals can help promote healthy hair growth. Some of the best foods for healthy hair include leafy greens, avocados, nuts, and salmon.

Incorporate these foods into your diet to keep your hair healthy and prevent sun damage.

Conclusion

Exposure to the sun can cause significant damage to your hair if you don’t take the necessary precautions. But by following these 30 tips, you can protect your hair from sun damage and keep it healthy and hydrated all summer long.

Remember that prevention is better than cure, so make sure to take care of your hair before it’s too late.