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Summer is here! It’s the perfect time for beaches, pools, and so many outdoor activities to enjoy with friends, family and solo. These can revive warm childhood memories, including caring adults reminding us to put on our sunscreen. And for good reason.
Skin care and protecting ourselves from the powerful UV rays is a top priority for so many of us. Ultraviolet light can be harmful to our skin, as it can damage skin cells through radiation. Thankfully, staying well informed and caring for ourselves with sun safety products keeps our skin healthy and protected. But have you ever thought of what the sun can do to your hair?
Our hair and scalp are also exposed to those rays and require our attention. So, if you’re wondering how to do that, we’ve got you covered! Here are five tried and true hair care tips for fun in the sun while staying safe.
Choose hair care products with SPF
Sun protection shouldn’t stop at the hairline. Because of this, many hair care products include SPF in their formula. SPF, which stands for Sun Protection Factor, is the measure of how much solar energy is needed to burn protected skin relative to how much energy is needed to burn unprotected skin. The higher the number, the more protection it gives.
Hair care products with SPF include sprays, powders, shampoos and conditioners. You can find dermatologist-approved product recommendations online, such as these from Vogue and Allure, or you can ask your doctor for their advice for your specific hair and skin type.
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Use a wide-tooth comb
Pools, beaches and water activities can leave our hair in some serious knots. Detangling hair with standard brushes and combs can likely result in breakage, says the Desert Essence blog. Using a wide-tooth comb is more gentle on your hair, especially for those of us with curly hair.
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Rinse your hair before and after swimming
Washing your hair after swimming in the ocean and pools is a must. But, did you know it’s recommended to wash your hair before these activities too? There is no need for shampoo. Washing your hair with just fresh water helps prevent it from absorbing chlorine and salt, as wet hair is naturally less absorbent. Of course, washing it well after swimming helps remove residual salt and chemicals.
And a pro tip: Model Annie McGinty recommends slathering some coconut oil on your hair before hitting the beach for shiny and conditioned results.
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Install a shower filter
Did you know you can install a water filter in your shower? Unfiltered water is loaded with chemical residue and mineral deposits as reported by Prime Women, which aren’t ideal for our hair. And over time, shower filters can remove bacteria in showerheads. A shower filter can help your hair look shinier and healthier.
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Wear hats and swim caps
One of the easiest ways to keep your hair protected is by blocking out the elements completely with swim caps. Some public pools actually require swim caps, which is a win for your hair care! You can also wear baseball caps, hats and scarfs when out in the sun, as these keep your hair almost perfectly protected from those rays. Plus, it’s an easy and stylish way to up your summer fashion vibe!
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