How Can I Protect My Hair in the Sun?

Advice - 16 June 2025

◴ Read time - 3 mins

Summer sun feels amazing, but it can be your hair’s worst enemy!

Holidaying abroad, spending weekends in the garden, or enjoying a beach day mean hair and scalp are at risk of damage. From colour fading to brittle end and an ageing scalp, the effects can be long-lasting.

Our stylists at Francesco Hair Salon recommend keeping your hair healthy, hydrated, and vibrant all summer long. To protect your hair in the sun you should:

Cleanse Away Summer Build-Up Daily

Sun, sea, and suncream might sound like a dream come true, but not for your hair. Daily exposure to chlorine, saltwater, sand, and sunscreen can dry out your hair, weaken the cuticle, and rapidly fade your colour.

Rinse your hair as soon as possible after swimming. Then, use a gentle UVA/UVB-protective sun shampoo to cleanse away any residues. Follow up with a hydrating conditioner or mask to restore lost moisture.

We love the Wella Suncare range, it’s lightweight, protective, and formulated specifically for sun-exposed hair.

Use UV Protection for Your Scalp and Ends

Did you know your scalp ages 12 times faster than the skin on your body? That’s a big reason to give it the same level of sun protection.

Look for professional-grade UVA/UVB SPF scalp sprays that shield your scalp and hair without making it greasy or heavy. Think of these are hair sunscreens. These are especially important if you wear your hair in partings or buns that expose your scalp to direct sunlight.

Know Your Hair Type

Some hair types are more vulnerable to sun damage than others. If your hair is:

– Lightened or bleached

– Fine or thin

– Chemically processed

…it needs extra protection. These hair types have a compromised cuticle, which means they absorb more UV rays and dry out faster.

We’ll match you with the right sun care products for your hair type and lifestyle.

Quick Recap: How to Protect Your Hair in the Sun

Rinse daily – After swimming, cleanse your hair of chlorine, salt, and product build-up.

Use a sun-safe shampoo and hydrating conditioner – Replenish lost moisture with salon-quality products like Wella Suncare.

Protect your scalp and ends – Apply a lightweight UVA/UVB scalp spray daily on holiday.

Know your hair type – Fine, bleached, or processed hair is more prone to sun damage—treat it gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q – Can I use normal shampoo after swimming?
A – Regular shampoos won’t remove chlorine or salt as effectively. Use a dedicated sun or swimmer’s shampoo with UVA/UVB protection for best results.

Q – Do I need to wear a hat if I use a UV spray?
A – It’s a good idea to do both! A spray adds invisible protection, while a hat physically blocks UV rays. It’s the best sun protection for hair.

Q – How often should I apply UV spray to my hair?
A – Once in the morning before sun exposure – and again after swimming or sweating heavily.

Q – Does sun protection weigh down fine hair?
A – Not if you use salon-quality products. Look for lightweight, non-greasy formulas designed for fine or thin hair.

At Francesco Hair Salon, we believe in giving your hair the same care you give your skin. Pop in and speak to one of our stylists – we’ll match you with the right sun care products for your hair type and lifestyle.