It’s not all fun in the sun – don’t forget that your hair and scalp also need protecting from the harsh effects of UV
As temperates in the UK amp up, so does the potential damage to your skin and hair. Whether you’re lounging in the park or enjoying a socially-distanced barbecue in the back garden, prolonged UV exposure can break down hair proteins which create free radicals. These cause hair to appear much duller and weaken its physical properties, making it much more likely to break. If you have coloured hair this causes its own raft of problems – UV rays penetrate and damage the hair protein structure, inducing premature hair ageing from the inside and degrading your beautiful hair colour.
Your skin cells may regenerate but your hair doesn’t! So whether it’s your scalp burning, hair breakage or your hair colour being affected by the UV, there are plenty of reasons to incorporate SPF protection into your hair routine, not just your skincare. Stock up on these products to shield yourself, and keep your scalp and hair colour in top condition.
Schwarzkopf Professional BC Sun Protect Prep & Protection Spritz
Spray'n'go with this handy waterproof formula, which uses vitamin E to offset damage caused by the sun and counteract fading. The fine mist coats the hair evenly, adding shine and softness as it protects. It's also available BC Sun Protect Kit, which contains three must-have hydrating and UV-protection products in a beautiful pouch.
RRP £19.95 for the kit
Joico Blonde Life Brightening Veil
The sun isn't the only bright spot with this spritz around - this do-all, conditioning cool kid is ideal for vulnerable, delicate blonde strands in particular. It protects from UV damage (of course) as well as mechanical and thermal damage, helping with elasticity and reinforcing hair for up to double the strength.
RRP £13.95
KÉRASTASE CREME UV SUBLIME
This great conditioning creme is light enough to apply whenever you need it - wet or dry, multiple times a day. With vitamin E to offset solar damage, it tames frizz and leaves hair incredibly light-reflective and soft.
RRP £24.80
L'Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Solar Sublime Spray
Keep this easy spray in your beach bag to top up your sun protection throughout the day. The fine mist is enriched with a UV filter and aloe vera to form a light protective film over the hair and keep it radiantly protected.
RRP £15.50
Philip Kingsley Swimcap
The OG of hair protection! This cult classic was originally formulated for the US Olympic synchronised swim team as they spent their days out in the sun and the water. It offers amazing protection from chlorine and UV damage while it works to deeply hydrate hair.
RRP £19
Revlon Professional Eksperience Treatment Sun Pro Marine Shower Hair Cleanser
This shampoo will become your ally after a day spent in the garden. Through harnessing the power of natural marine extracts which feature in formula, the shampoo delicately cleanses the hair after exposure to the sun.
RRP ££24.80
Wella Professionals Invigo UV Hair Color Protection Spray
Put a stop to the dreaded colour change when you take your barnet to the beach with this easy to use spray. By protecting from UV damage it prevents the colour breaking down and keeps your blondes looking bright.
RRP £14.80
System Professional Hydro-repair Solar Conditioner
Featuring a HelioRestore Complex, this gentle but effective conditioner works to repair the damaging effect of prolonged sun exposure and salt/chlorine water on hair. Say hello to nourished and silky locks with natural-looking shine.
RRP £22.90
Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil
This lightweight, water-resistant UV defence mist forms an invisible screen to help protect hair from sun exposure for up to sixteen hours. Simple to use and easy to layer up throughout the day, the must-have sun shield also helps to minimise colour fading, damage and dryness.
RRP £22.50
Sachajuan Hair In The Sun
Applied to wet or dry hair, this clever cream protects your hair from UV rays while serving subtle hold. It's perfect option for keeping frizz at bay and setting your strands in place during socially-distanced days out.
RRP £20
