Summer in Australia is long days, bbq’s, cricket and the beach. We spend more time outdoors and protect ourselves from the sun. The Slip, Slop, Slap campaign reminds us of the effects of the sun on our skin, but what about our hair?
Dermatologist, Dr Wilma Bergfeld, notes that the effects of the sun on our hair is similar to bleach. The impact is an irreversible reaction that strips the colour from your hair, damaging the cuticle and protein in the strands. Without the protection of our hair’s natural protein, the sun can penetrate your hair further and do more damage.
The result is breakage, a thinner, frizzy appearance and a loss of your hair’s tensile properties. Let’s not forget about colour loss, your fresh new colour will fade before your very eyes. Thicker, oilier hair may offer some protection against the sun damage, but it is not enough.
Some products offer UV protection, however, there isn’t a UV product like 50+ sunscreen to protect your hair when you are out in the sun or swimming - yes chlorine and salt do their own damage to your hair. So when you slip, slop, slap this summer, think about your hair as well as your skin.
Look for a hat that will cover your hair, or allow your a hairstyle that will sit neatly underneath or consider working an umbrella into your look - that way you can have a great hairstyle all day without the impact of a hat.
And most important of all, quality products can replenish the protein and oils in your hair, add volume and help you keep luscious, long locks.
So cover up and remember to wash that salt and chlorine out as soon as you’re out of the water.
Have a great summer!