6 Tips to Protect Your Hair From the Sun and Keep It Healthy

Long beach days. Morning hikes. A dip in the pool to cool off. Summer brings no shortage of sun-soaked joy—but your hair might be feeling the effects.

Sunlight, saltwater, chlorine, and even wind can take a toll on your strands, leaving them dry, dull, or more prone to breakage. But with a few simple adjustments to your routine, protecting your hair in the sun (and keeping it healthy all season long) can feel as easy as picking your preferred pool chair.

Let’s take a closer look at how summer affects your hair—and six smart ways to care for it.

What does sunlight do to your hair?

If you’re wondering whether sunlight is good or bad for your hair, the short answer is: it depends. Just like skin, science shows that hair is sensitive to UV radiation. Overexposure can weaken the outer layer of the hair shaft (the cuticle), making it rough, brittle, and more prone to split ends. And color-treated or fine hair may be especially vulnerable.

And it’s not just UV rays. Summer fun often includes:

• Saltwater: Dries out hair by stripping away natural oils.
• Chlorine: Can cause discoloration and increased breakage, especially in color-treated or chemically processed hair.
• Wind and pollution: Can lead to tangling and deposit dirt particles on the scalp and strands.

Still, you don’t have to skip your favorite summer moments. Here are six proven tips for how to keep your hair strong, shiny, and sun-safe.

1. Strengthen your hair from within

Fresh, crisp fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and cherries signal sweet summer’s official arrival. These healthy snacks don’t just help to beat the heat, they’re also great sources of hair-loving nutrients like vitamin C, biotin, and zinc.

But a travel-packed schedule doesn’t make it easy to stick with a varied diet. For an added boost, turn to a targeted hair supplement.

2. Make shade your style

Sun hats aren’t just a fashion statement—they’re a powerful tool for UV protection. Wide-brimmed hats or bucket styles help shield both your hair and sensitive skin (like your scalp, ears, and neck) from the sun’s rays.

A few extra tips:

• Always dry your hair before putting on a hat to avoid friction damage.
• Choose lightweight, breathable materials if you’re out in the heat.
• Tie up long hair in a loose braid or bun to prevent tangling.

3. Comb gently, rinse often

Salt, sand, and chlorine don’t just dry out your hair—they can also lead to knots and breakage. Keep a wide-toothed comb handy to detangle gently after swimming, and rinse your hair with fresh water after every dip in the sea or pool.

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Comb hair before getting in the water to reduce tangles.
• Reapply your favorite sunscreen as soon as you stretch back out on your towel after swimming.
• Skip the rough towel rub—instead, blot gently with a soft towel or cotton t-shirt.

4. Update your hair care routine

Your hair’s needs can shift with the seasons. Stick with the hair care routine that works for you, while making a few seasonal adjustments to products and frequency. During summer, try:

• Using a gentle, targeted shampoo to avoid further drying out the scalp.
• Applying a lightweight leave-in conditioner to help restore softness after sun or salt exposure.
• Letting hair air dry whenever possible to prevent additional heat damage.

If your hair feels especially stressed, a weekly deep-conditioning mask can also help nourish and restore moisture.

5. Give your hair a vacation, too

Your hair undergoes quite a bit of stress throughout the year between dryers, straighteners, and environmental factors. Summer can be the perfect time to embrace your natural hair texture and give heat tools and chemical relaxers a break.

If you do reach for heat styling tools, remember:

• Always apply a heat protectant beforehand.
• Choose ceramic tools to help distribute heat evenly and reduce damage.
• Try gentle styles like loose buns or braids instead of tight ponytails or heavy clips.

And when it comes to hair color? Consider waiting until the season cools down. The combination of dye and sun exposure can intensify dryness and fading.

 

6. Go for a trim

Sun, salt, and chlorine can all lead to split ends. Booking a trim every 6–8 weeks helps keep your hair looking fresh and prevents breakage from traveling up the shaft.

Think of it as a seasonal refresh—like switching to lighter clothes or updating your skincare routine. A small cut can go a long way.

 

Summer hair care, simplified

Protecting your hair in the sun can fit right into your summer routine. With a few mindful habits—and a little help from nutrition, smart styling, and gentle products—your hair can stay soft, strong, and unbothered.

Because the real goal? Enjoying every moment. Wind in your hair, sunshine on your skin, and confidence that comes from feeling good in your own rhythm—all season long.