The sun is shining, and summer is in full swing. As we enjoy the warm weather, it’s essential to remember that our hair can be just as vulnerable to the sun’s damaging rays as our skin. According to Nicky Clarke OBE, a celebrity hair specialist who has styled some of the biggest names in the industry, including Princess Diana, Gwyneth Paltrow, and George Michael, the key to keeping our locks fresh and healthy during the summer months lies in using hair products formulated with UV protection.
Why UV Protection is Essential
Nicky explained that human hair is just as susceptible to UV damage as skin, and the sun’s rays can weaken the protein structures in your hair, leading to dull, dry, and brittle strands. Greying hair, in particular, is more vulnerable to UV damage due to its lower melanin content, which can leave it with a yellow tinge and make it super brittle and porous.
- Human hair is vulnerable to UV damage just like skin
- Sun rays can weaken the protein structures in your hair, leading to dull, dry, and brittle strands
- Grey hair is more susceptible to UV damage due to its lower melanin content
Choosing the Right UV Protection Products
Nicky recommends using hair products that are specifically formulated with UV protection. He particularly champions LifeSaver UV from the Michael Van Clarke professional collection, which has undergone rigorous testing in extreme weather conditions. According to Nicky, this product has proven to be unmatched in its ability to protect from thinning, breakage, and color fade.
- LifeSaver UV from the Michael Van Clarke professional collection
- Has undergone rigorous testing in extreme weather conditions
- Unmatched in its ability to protect from thinning, breakage, and color fade
Applying Sun Cream Correctly
While UV protection is essential for our hair, it’s equally important to look after our skin. According to Niamh McMillan, Superdrug Pharmacy Superintendent, we should apply sun cream between 15 and 30 minutes before going outside, and reapplied every 15 to 30 minutes after sun exposure.
| Time Before Going Outside | Time After Sun Exposure |
|---|---|
| 15-30 minutes | 15-30 minutes |
Protecting Your Scalp and Hair
Nicky emphasizes the importance of protecting our scalp and hair from the sun’s damaging rays. He recommends using a leave-in styling product that contains UV protection, such as LifeSaver UV, to shield your locks from solar damage. By doing so, you can prevent damage to your hair’s protein structures and maintain moisture levels, keeping your hair healthy and strong.
“It’s second nature to protect our skin from excessive sun exposure, but many people either don’t realise or highly underestimate the damaging power of the sun on your locks.” – Nicky Clarke OBE
Grey Hair and UV Protection
Grey hair is particularly susceptible to UV damage, as it has lower melanin content and can leave it with a yellow tinge and make it super brittle and porous. Nicky recommends being extra diligent with hair care protection for grey hair, and applying protective products or wearing a hat to shield your locks from the sun.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using hair products formulated with UV protection is essential for keeping our locks fresh and healthy during the summer months. By choosing the right products and applying them correctly, we can prevent damage to our hair’s protein structures and maintain moisture levels, keeping our hair strong and healthy. Remember to also protect your skin and scalp from the sun’s damaging rays, and take extra care to shield your grey hair from UV damage. With the right precautions, you can enjoy the sunshine and look fabulous all summer long!