Protect your hair from the sun: tips and effective treatments
When summer arrives and the sun shines, we naturally have the reflex to protect our skin with sunscreen. But what about our hair ? Too often neglected, it nevertheless suffers the full force of attacks from UV rays , heat, sea water , chlorine and wind .
The result: hair that dries out, becomes dull, loses its natural shine, and becomes brittle. To maintain healthy, shiny hair throughout the holidays, special attention is required.
Do hair and sun really go hand in hand? Discover in this comprehensive article all the keys to effectively protecting your hair from the sun thanks to the benefits of Virgin Plant oils and a few simple, natural steps.
Understanding the effects of the sun on your hair
The benefits of the sun: myth or reality?
We often associate summer with a tanned complexion and hair beautifully lightened by the sun's rays. But these golden highlights are actually a sign of oxidation , and therefore of an alteration of the hair fiber . While it is true that moderate exposure promotes the synthesis of vitamin D , which is beneficial for the skin and hair follicles, its benefits on the hair itself are limited.
Too much sun damages natural or artificial hair pigments , weakens keratin and deteriorates the hair structure .
The harmful effects of the sun: when the sun becomes your hair's enemy
UV radiation acts as a powerful oxidant that damages keratin, the essential protein in hair. Result:
- Loss of shine and pigment;
- Drying of the fiber;
- Breakage of lengths and split ends;
- Increased sensitivity of the scalp;
- Changing the color of colored hair;
Exacerbated by wind , sea salt or chlorine from swimming pools , these effects can compromise the appearance of your hair after just a few days of outdoor activity.
The best Virgin Plant oils to protect your hair from the sun
Fortunately, nature offers a gentle and effective response to these summer aggressions: Virgin Plant Oils. Rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, antioxidants and phytosterols , they have been used for centuries in beauty rituals around the world. In ancient Egypt, women massaged their hair with Castor or Sesame Virgin Plant Oil to strengthen it and protect it from the desert heat. In India, Coconut Virgin Plant Oil is one of the pillars of hair Ayurveda. Even today, these ancestral gestures continue to seduce with their effectiveness and naturalness.
Virgin Plant Oils act as a protective shield on the hair fiber . By coating the hair, they limit water evaporation , reduce porosity induced by UV rays and preserve keratin, the hair's structuring protein. Their silky texture envelops the hair shaft with a hydrolipidic film that protects without weighing it down.
But not all Virgin Plant oils are created equal: some penetrate deep into the hair fiber for a restorative effect, while others only touch the surface to add shine and softness. Choosing a Virgin Plant oil suited to your hair type and its specific needs is therefore essential for optimal sun protection.
To go further, discover all our advice on summer Virgin Plant Oils .
Coconut Virgin Plant Oil: moisturizing and protective
Rich in lauric acid , Coconut Virgin Plant Oil penetrates deep into the hair fiber and helps maintain good hydration. Applied before sun exposure, it limits the evaporation of water contained in the hair and forms a natural protective film . Ideal for dry and curly hair.
Argan Virgin Plant Oil: for silky hair
A true treasure of Morocco, organic Argan Virgin Plant Oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids . It helps prevent breakage, deeply nourishes and restores suppleness to hair. It is particularly recommended after sun exposure or for colored hair.
Jojoba Virgin Plant Oil: a hair conditioner
Organic Jojoba Virgin Plant Oil is a irgin Plant oil with properties similar to human sebum . It helps regulate the scalp's sebum production while providing shine and protection . It is perfect for combination scalps or oily hair.
Avocado Virgin Plant Oil: restorative and protective
Organic Avocado Virgin Plant Oil is rich in vitamins A, D, E and essential fatty acids . It stimulates hair regeneration and helps defend it against external aggressions. Very nourishing , it is particularly suitable for thick or curly hair.
Other protective Virgin Plant oils to discover:
- Castor Virgin Plant Oil: fortifying, it is ideal for damaged ends;
- Macadamia Virgin Plant Oil: to repair fragile hair without weighing it down;
- Vanilla Virgin Plant Oil: very pleasant for its sunny scent, it can be combined with aloe vera gel for a homemade treatment.
How to apply Virgin Plant oils for optimal protection
1. Before sun exposure
Apply a few drops of Virgin Plant oil to the lengths and ends , paying particular attention to sensitive areas. This will form a natural protective film against heat, wind, and UV rays. You can also apply it to your scalp if it is exposed.
2. On damp hair
Humidity helps the oil anchor into the hair fiber. Apply it to towel-dried hair after showering to seal in moisture while conditioning the hair .
3. In weekly deep care
Once a week, give your hair an oil bath : apply generously, wrap in a warm towel or hairnet, leave on for 30 minutes to overnight, then shampoo gently .
To enhance the effectiveness of your hair care routine, combine plant oils with complementary treatments. For example, the protective hair treatment combines Vanilla Plant Oil with Aloe Vera Gel for a fluid, lightweight, and protective texture. This treatment can be used before sun exposure or as a daily styling product.
4. As a styling or anti-frizz treatment
To tame frizz , apply one to two drops of oil to the ends as a finishing touch. Avoid the roots, especially if your hair is fine.
5. Frequency and dosage
Virgin Plant Oils are very concentrated :
- 3 to 5 drops for fine hair;
- 1 to 2 teaspoons for thick or very dry hair. Adjust the amount according to your needs.
6. For personalized care
Combine your oils with complementary treatments. For example, a protective treatment combining Vanilla Virgin Plant Oil and Aloe Vera Gel offers a light and hydrating texture.
Also discover the essential Virgin Plant oils for summer .
Other tips for protecting your hair from the sun
Headwear: Hats, Scarves and More
The most direct way to protect yourself from the sun is to wear a hat, bucket hat, or scarf. In addition to protecting your hair, this limits the exposure of your scalp, which is often overlooked and yet vulnerable to sunburn during your activities.
Adjusting your hair routine: products and habits to adopt
During the summer, avoid harsh, frequent, or harsh shampoos. Choose gentle products without sulfates or silicones , and space out washes to preserve natural sebum.
Hydration and nutrition: the keys to strong hair
Drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping hair hydrated from the inside out. A weekly nourishing mask made with Virgin Plant oil is also a real plus. Add a few drops of True Lavender Essential Oil for a calming and fragrant effect.
Rinse hair with fresh water after swimming
Salt and chlorine increase hair porosity and worsen sun damage. After each swim in the sea or pool, rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water to remove residue and limit drying effects.
After-sun care: repair and rehydration
After a day in the sun, treat your hair to a soothing and restorative treatment: argan oil, a homemade mask, or a Virgin Plant oil bath. You can also use a moisturizing spray containing floral water, such as lavender or rose hydrosol .
Homemade: Our recipe to protect your hair
Looking for a simple, natural, homemade hair treatment? Here's a quick recipe:
Ingredients :
- 1 tablespoon of Coconut Virgin Plant Oil;
- 1 tablespoon of Vanilla Virgin Plant Oil;
- 1 tablespoon of Aloe Vera Gel;
- 3 drops of Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil (optional);
Mix everything together in a spray bottle. Apply to the lengths of your hair before sun exposure or as a leave-in treatment after the beach.
→ For a ready-to-use solution, try the protective hair treatment .
Pranarôm's tips for keeping your hair healthy in summer
- Systematically apply a Virgin Plant oil before each prolonged exposure;
- Protect your scalp with a hat or light Virgin Plant oil;
- Moisturize your hair when you get back from the beach with a spray or floral water;
- Alternate protective and repairing products to maintain hair balance;
- Incorporate Virgin Plant oils into your annual routine to strengthen hair fibers over the long term.
Summer can be a wonderful season for your hair, as long as you take care of it regularly and gently. While sun on your hair may seem beneficial, it hides a real danger: its UV rays, combined with hot air, salt, wind, and chlorine, cause intense dehydration and deep damage, regardless of your hair type or color.
The sun can also permanently lighten your hair. In any case, only new hair resulting from a complete hair cycle will regain its original color. Other factors, such as salt or certain harsh treatments, can accentuate this phenomenon.
To preserve the shine and health of your locks, rely on simple and natural gestures: Virgin Plant oils protect, nourish and strengthen the hair fiber, while a good diet with, for example, brewer's yeast, supports your hair from the inside out. Adopt these reflexes to fully enjoy summer without compromising the beauty of your hair.
