It’s that time of year again when we’re all thinking about holidays, sunshine, days at the beach and spending more time outdoors.
While summer is fantastic for our mood, it can be much less kind to our hair.
Every year we see clients return from holiday with faded colour, dry ends, increased frizz and hair that simply doesn’t feel as healthy as it did before they left.
The good news? Most summer hair damage is preventable.
With a little preparation before you travel and a few simple habits while you’re away, you can enjoy the sunshine without sacrificing the health and condition of your hair.
What Does The Sun Actually Do To Your Hair?
Most people are diligent about protecting their skin from UV rays but rarely think about protecting their hair.
Just like your skin, your hair can be damaged by prolonged exposure to the sun.
UV rays break down the proteins that make up the hair structure, particularly keratin, which is responsible for strength and elasticity.
Over time this can cause:
- Dryness
- Brittleness
- Increased split ends
- Loss of shine
- Rough texture
- Increased frizz
The sun can also weaken the cuticle (the outer protective layer of the hair), making it more vulnerable to damage from chlorine, sea water and heat styling.
If you’ve ever returned from holiday feeling like your hair is harder to manage than usual, UV damage is often one of the reasons why.
Why Does Hair Colour Fade In Summer?
One of the biggest frustrations for many clients is seeing their beautiful salon colour fade after only a few days in the sun.
This happens because UV rays break down the colour molecules within the hair.
Blondes often become brighter and warmer than intended, sometimes developing unwanted yellow or brassy tones.
Brunettes can lose richness and depth, appearing lighter and more coppery.
Red shades tend to fade the fastest as red colour molecules are naturally smaller and less stable.
Swimming pools and sea water can speed up this process even further, particularly if the hair is already porous or colour treated.
The Importance Of UV Protection For Your Hair
Think of UV protection for your hair in exactly the same way you think about sunscreen for your skin.
If you’re spending time outdoors, your hair needs protection too.
Many professional leave-in products now contain UV filters that help reduce damage caused by sun exposure while also helping preserve colour.
The benefits include:
- Reduced colour fade
- Better moisture retention
- Less dryness and brittleness
- Improved shine
- Better overall hair condition
A good UV protection spray is one of the simplest additions you can make to your summer haircare routine.
How To Prep Your Hair Before Your Holiday
A little preparation before you travel can make a huge difference.
Refresh Your Haircut
Removing dry or damaged ends before your holiday prevents existing damage from becoming worse.
Freshly trimmed hair is also much easier to style and manage in humid weather.
Book Your Colour At The Right Time
For most clients, we recommend booking colour appointments around 1-2 weeks before travelling.
This gives your colour time to settle naturally while still looking fresh for your holiday.
Invest In A Professional Treatment
Summer is not the time to neglect your hair’s condition.
A professional treatment can help strengthen the hair, improve moisture levels and create a healthier foundation before exposure to sun, sea and chlorine.
Think of it as preparing your hair for its holiday too.
Take The Right Products With You
Holiday luggage space is precious, but your hair products deserve a place in the suitcase.
We recommend packing:
- Moisturising shampoo
- Conditioner
- UV protection spray
- Leave-in conditioner
- Hair oil or serum
- Heat protection
What Can You Do To Protect Your Hair While On Holiday?
Once you’re away, a few simple habits can make a huge difference.
Wear A Hat
A stylish hat is one of the easiest ways to protect both your scalp and your hair from UV damage.
Wet Your Hair Before Swimming
Hair behaves like a sponge.
If you soak it with clean water before entering a pool or the sea, it absorbs less chlorine and salt water.
Rinse After Every Swim
Always rinse your hair as soon as possible after swimming to remove chlorine, salt and other minerals.
Use Leave-In Protection
Applying a leave-in conditioner or UV protection spray before heading out for the day helps create a protective barrier.
Be Gentle With Heat Styling
Your hair is already exposed to heat from the sun.
Try to embrace natural texture where possible and reduce the amount of additional heat styling while you’re away.
Healthy Summer Hair Starts Before You Leave
The best summer haircare isn’t about repairing damage afterward it’s about preventing it in the first place.
With the right preparation, the right products and a little extra care while you’re away, you can return from holiday with your hair looking just as healthy and beautiful as when you left.
If you’re planning a summer getaway and would like advice on preparing your hair, speak to one of our stylists. We’ll happily recommend the right treatments, products and colour services to keep your hair looking its absolute best all summer long.
