Let’s hope we’ve a good summer ahead! As great as that would be, with the heat comes problem hair, not to mention for those of us who like swimming, what chlorine can do to our locks.
Having a summer hair care routine is essential for protecting your hair from frizz-inducing humidity and the parching qualities of saltwater and chlorine.
The sun can also cause oxidation in hair which destroys shine and alters hair colour. We’ve put together the following tips to help protect hair from potential havoc and to keep your hair healthy during the summer days.
Protect hair from the sun
Protecting natural as well as colour treated hair is important as the sun produces uneven bleaching effects that wipe out shine and leave strands looking brittle. The sun’s rays can also change the tint of colour-treated hair, leaving strands looking brassy and dull.
There are categories of intensity of the sun's light waves. These are UVA, UVB and UVC. The UVA and UVB can both damage the hair in a number of ways. Permanent damage can result to the outside covering of the hair, penetrating into the centre of the hair.
If you’re going to be exposing your hair to the sun, wear a hat or scarf over it to protect it. You can also use hair-specific sunblock.
Avoid swimming in chlorine
Chlorine in swimming pools can dry out the hair. The hair's cuticle is similar to a sponge and will absorb chlorinated or salt water. We recommend avoiding getting chlorine on your hair either by avoiding swimming or by wearing a swim cap when you swim. Alternatively swim with your head above water. If you have to expose your hair to chlorine, use an oil product which will fill your hair cuticles and make it less prone to penetration by chlorine.
Hair that has been exposed to chlorine may look dull and even have a green hue. If this happens to you, use a clarifying shampoo.
Avoid summer hair frizz
Moisture causes hair to frizz and as humidity is moisture in the air, it penetrates hair at the hair shaft, causing cuticles and strands to expand. Using silicone-based serums or anti-frizz sprays to get rid of frizz is recommended. There are many great ones on the market which contain natural oils that won’t make your hair heavy or leave it greasy.
