Avoid sun-stressed locks
Hair becomes weaker, drier and far more prone to breakage and split ends when it is exposed to the sun. This is because the sun’s rays quickly alter the structure of the hair. According to a 2019 study, UV rays can damage hair like the skin, potentially damaging the hair follicle. Too much time in the sun can damage the hair’s structure and colour, and the scalp needs protection from the sun too. To avoid sun-stressed locks, apply hair serum or oil to hair whenever you’re in the sun. Remember your scalp is an extension of your face, so be especially careful along your parting and where hair is thinning. Sunscreens that are made for the face and body can be applied to the scalp. For a non-greasy option, Jane Iredale Dry Sunscreen SPF 30 in Translucent works beautifully.
Add much-needed moisture by treating hair with an intensive, nourishing mask in the evening. “I like Kaaral Hydra Mask to restore vital moisture lost from exposure to UV rays, heat and pool chemicals and create soft, healthy, shiny locks,” says Lory. “Ask your stylist to recommend the best one for your hair type.”
Sun-kissed, not sun-stressed hair
Sun, sea, sand… after the past two years of lockdowns and travel restrictions, this sounds like bliss, but if you’re planning a holiday, don’t forget to factor in a hair care plan too. You may love the sun, but your hair most definitely won’t.
First things first…
Ensuring your hair looks beach-babe tousled, sun-kissed and effortlessly cool takes planning.
Start with a pre-holiday trim and professional conditioning treatment for healthy, strong strands ready to fend off the onslaught of hot sunshine, salty sea water and chlorinated pools.
Here are our top tips to minimize damage:
- Wet your hair with fresh water before diving in the pool or ocean. This will mean your hair soaks up less salt or chlorine.
- If possible, always wash and condition your hair after swimming. At the very least, take a water bottle with you to rinse it through your hair. And always remember to re-apply your sun protection to your hair, scalp and skin after your dip.
- Always use a specifically formulated shampoo and conditioner to remove chlorine and hydrate stressed hair. We suggest Nioxin Clarifying Shampoo.
- Keep blondes looking beautiful and neutralize any green or ‘brassy’ tones caused by chlorinated pools with Baco Blonde Elevation shampoo and mask.
Give your hair a holiday
While you’re away, try to avoid heated styling tools if you can and allow your hair to dry naturally. If you are using heated tools, always apply a thermal protector product, such as Kaaral TriAction Serum, which reduces the harsh drying effects of styling tools and hair dryers.
Go shopping!
Continuing the pre-holiday planning theme… get shopping!
- Covering up is the quickest and easiest way to protect your hair and scalp from the sun’s damaging and drying rays. Don’t wait until you’re on holiday to buy flattering hats, tropical scarves and glitzy hair accessories ready for those poolside Insta pics.
- Stock up on the right hair products – we’ve travel sizes too if you’re jetting to sunny shores or are tight on packing space.
Coloured hair on vacay
Coloured hair is especially vulnerable to sun, sea and chlorine.
The sun fades coloured hair. And hair that isn’t coloured may become lighter, but this is another sign of sun damage and should be avoided.
Avoid the holiday hair blues. Get organized and book your pre and post-holiday appointments now at 905-681-0277. That’s one more thing crossed off your holiday list!
P.S. Have an amazing holiday!
