Not just skin: Why should hair be protected from the sun?

Ultraviolet radiation affects not only the skin, but also the hair. Therefore, do not forget about the strands when applying the SPF cream before going out. A trichologist, an invited expert of the SmoRodina brand, said about which tools are suitable and why thermal protection will not help here.

Trichologist, cosmetologist Maria Nevskaya invited a specialist of the eco-brand of natural cosmetics SmoRodina

How does the sun affect hair?

UVB rays are short-wave radiation that has a direct harmful effect on the surface layers of the skin (epidermis) and hair (cuticle). As a result, the strands become drier, brittle, weaker, and with prolonged exposure to the sun, their condition deteriorates significantly. Of course, melanin becomes part of the blow – it radiates excess energy in the form of heat, but it is destroyed by itself. This can be seen when the hair is sunburned and loses its pigment. In addition, radiation can cause sunburn on the scalp, which can then cause hair loss.

UVA rays are long-wave radiation that penetrate deep into the dermis and cause an inflammatory process in the scalp. In response to this, new hair growth may slow down.

Collectively, UV radiation affects both hair follicles and shafts. As a result, hair growth may slow down, the structure of the hair strands may deteriorate and they may begin to fall out.

How to protect hair from sun rays?

There are several main recommendations:

– Wear a hat in active sun. Our fashion editor told here which Russian brands should look for stylish panamas, caps and hats.

– Use special sunscreen for hair with UV filters. By the way, they need to be updated every two hours, like an SPF cream.

– Use care products for damaged and dry hair. For example, rinse-off emollients, permanent serums or oils.

Does thermal protection also protect from the sun?

Many people think that the thermal protection products we usually use before hot styling can protect from the sun, but this is not the case. Oil and indelible sprays do not produce a noticeable effect. Therefore, always pay attention to the SPF, UVA and UVB markings when choosing a product.