While our complexion is the first to show signs of ageing from UV damage, our hair is similarly affected. Editor Trudi Brewer shares a haircare collection designed to block UV rays and enhance hydration. Read on to learn more.
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Although our hair doesn’t burn in the same way as our skin, UV rays still damage it. UVB (burning rays) are responsible for protein loss in hair, leading to split ends, frizz, and dryness. UVA (ageing rays) fade your expensive colour. When it comes to your hair (unless you wear a hat every day), blondes, grey and red heads are more susceptible to sun damage, partly due to lower levels of melanin [the pigment which defines hair colour], which provides some natural protection. Curly or chemically-treated hair is also easily damaged, as this hair type is already weaker – curly hair because the very nature of the curls makes it fragile, and chemically-treated hair because the integrity of the hair has already been compromised. Add sea salt and pool chlorine, and hair becomes more delicate.
How to protect your hair in the sun
While a hat is a sure-fire way to protect hair from UV damage, it’s not always feasible. Before swimming, massage a small amount of conditioner into the ends of your hair; this acts as a barrier, preventing chlorine or saltwater from damaging it.
Jacques Janine Hair Sun Protect Shampoo, $30
Not just a cleansing and conditioning couple; the shampoo and conditioner in this collection are considered anti-ageing haircare. Both leave an invisible protective layer on the hair to nourish and protect against damage from sun, chlorine, and pollution, with a lineup of impressive ingredients. These include coconut oil, caviar and pearl extracts, and hydrolysed wheat protein.
Using a leave-in product with a UV protectant is a game-changer, especially for coloured or chemically straightened hair. While hair products don’t guarantee SPF50, a built-in UV protectant or UV filter will coat the hair and lock in moisture. Why bother? The sun’s rays penetrate deeply and can break down the hair’s internal structure over time, leading to long-term damage, like brittle ends and frizz.
Jacques Janine Hair Sun Protect Spray, $20
Shielding against UV rays, salt, and chlorine, this hair colour protector was created to keep your hair from fading and to prevent dry, split ends. It also features the same ingredient lineup as the shampoo and conditioner, and it’s ideal to keep in your beach bag. It can be spritzed into dry, damp, or soaking-wet hair. Spray from mid-lengths to ends, and reapply after swimming.
Jacques Janine Hair Sun Protect Mask, $30
Salt water purges moisture from your hair, and as it dries, it crystallises on the hair, making it brittle. While the crunchiness of salty hair makes it feel thick and textured, brushing it through makes it more brittle and prone to breakage. Rinse your hair after swimming, and apply a weekly mask to boost moisture and keep it silky-smooth.
Hydrating and deeply nourishing, this thick, creamy hair mask is packed with the brand’s good-for-your-hair ingredients, and has a gorgeous, floral, tropical aroma that lingers in the hair for hours. After washing your hair, towel-dry, apply the mask from mid-lengths to ends, and massage it into the scalp. Leave on for up to 10 minutes, then rinse. To give your hair an extra-deep hydrating treatment, wrap it in a hot towel to open the hair shaft and deliver deeper nourishment.
Find out how.