Sun-Kissed Strands: How to Safeguard Your Hair for a Stunning Summer Glow.

By Romina Manenti

Published on May 30th, 2023

Long, hot summer days are a time of joy, but all that time in the sun can wreak havoc on your hair. While the sun isn’t necessarily the only summer stressor, it’s a constant factor that makes even healthy hair more vulnerable to the effects of chlorine, salty water and heat. Before you hit the beach or the pool this summer, it’s important to understand the effects of the sun on your hair and how to prevent compromising your hair’s long term health.

We know that sunburn on the skin will turn red, feel hot and cause discomfort. While sun damage on the hair isn’t quite so obvious, it is still very possible for the hair to get “sunburned” too. The hair shaft can be either superficially or internally damaged, depending on the length and intensity of unprotected sun exposure.

How Does The Sun Damage Hair

The sun’s rays are made up of radiation known as UV rays. When these rays hit the hair, they first come into contact with the outermost layers, called the cuticle. The main purpose of these cuticle layers is to safeguard the inner core from external conditions. This means that these outer layers encounter the most intensive radiation from the sun.

Once the hair absorbs the UV radiation through the cuticle, it passes through the hair shaft and triggers a photochemical breakdown. Hair lipids are damaged, proteins are lost and the bonds that hold the hair together and create elasticity are broken down.

When a damaged hair shaft is examined under an electron microscope, the damage is shown as an irregularity and lifting of the cuticle layers, and the presence of holes and cracks. In fact, hair damage can be measure in grades:

• Grade 1: Virgin, intact hair with regular overlap of the cuticle. This is the result of taking good care of your hair -  hair appears shiny, bouncy, healthy.

• Grade 2: Irregular overlap of the cuticle without cracks or holes. In this light grade of damage hair appears partially dry and/or dull and will begin to lose its elasticity.

• Grade 3: Severe lifting of the cuticle with cracks or holes, but without exposure of the cortex. This is common in colored, chemically treated and hair that has been bleached up to 3 shades lighter.  In this second grade of damage hair appears brittle with a combination of dryness, dullness, split ends and frizz.

• Grade 4: Partial exposure of cortex. This is quite unusual and usually happens when a chemical process isn’t performed properly, such as on heavily chemically treated, colored or bleached hair. Hair appears brittle, freezy, shineless and highly  prone to breakage.

• Grade 5: Complete disappearance of cortex. The hair breaks because there are no more bonds holding it together. At this point, a haircut is the only option to give the hair a fresh start.

When it comes to the sun, UV ray exposure can easily cause 1 or 2 shades’ worth of damage to your (maybe already damaged!) hair. To maintain the hair health and avoid any further damage, UV protection is crucial to protect your fragile hair shaft.

5 Ways To Protect Your Hair From Sun Damage

1. Wear A Hat

Whether you’re swimming at the beach, hiking in the mountains or just shopping in town, one of the simplest and most effective ways of protecting your head and hair from sun damage is by wearing a hat. A hat acts as a protective layer between you and the sun, keeping the damaging UV rays from hitting your hair and scalp.

2. Apply An All-Natural SPF

Your favorite hair oils could be your sunshine saviors this summer. MAY11’s  vegan, organic, silicone and chemical-free natural oil blends contain a natural SPF to protect your hair from the sun’s UV rays. The MAY11 oils’ natural sealing properties will protect your hair from hot weather and chlorinated water, so your hair will stay nourished and protected. They will also give you your dream effortless, beachy hair texture - bonus!

Trying to choose the right MAY11 oil for your beach bag? Here are our recommendations:

MAY11 Revitalizing Hair Oil - for all hair types.

Available in 3 signature scents: Original, Infused with Neroli Essential Oil, Fragrance -Free

MAY11 Blonde Restoring Hair Oil - for coloured blonde or bleached hair

MAY11 Purifying Scalp Oil - for a sunburn-prone scalp or sensitivity to heat, chlorine or saltwater

3. Rinse After Your Swim

Both saltwater and chlorine can cause the hair cuticle to swell, making your hair more prone to damage. Because the cuticle is already lifted, UV rays can then penetrate the hair shaft and accelerate that damage.

After your hair comes into contact with ocean or pool water, make sure to rinse it under fresh water. If possible, try to rinse it after every dip, but at least make sure to use a gentle shampoo at the end of the day. Applying MAY11 hair oil before you swim provides a natural layer of protection and make your hair more resilient to the frequent summer rinsing. 

4. Check The Clock

This tried and true skin saving rule also applies to your hair: avoid direct sun exposure between 10am and 2pm. UV rays are strongest when the sun is at its peak in the sky, making the risk of sun damage the highest. Besides, the late afternoon sun is more luxurious!

5. Don’t Forget To Re-Hydrate

If you feel parched after a long summer day in the sun, the chances are that your hair does too. When it’s time to step away from the beach or pool, it’s important to hydrate yourself inside and out. Drink plenty of water and give your hair a little extra love with our MAY11 Re-Hydrating Set . This DIY lightweight mist will revive your curly, wavy or straight hair, and seal the cuticle giving you the perfect beachy texture. If your scalp ever feels sensitive or becomes sunburned, you can treat it by applying the MAY11 Scalp Oil. Leave it for at least an hour or overnight, and then shampoo as usual.

This summer, relax and enjoy yourself with the knowledge that you’re protecting and nourishing your hair. Just like we no longer skip sunscreen, gone are the days of letting our hair get damaged by the sun’s UV rays. Be sun smart, pack your MAY11 alongside your hat in your beach bag, and have fun!

Any questions? Connect with an expert

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