There are many health benefits to sunshine, including reducing stress and boosting bone health. However, there are also some disadvantages of this recent sunny spell, as too much exposure to bright sunlight can cause damage to your hair.
Over the last few weeks, the UK has been basking in temperatures of more than 20C most days, with highs of over 30C being experienced in some parts of the country too.
This would certainly have helped Brits improve their health, thanks to the increased production of vitamin D in the body, which reduces inflammation, supports the immune system, develops healthy bones, and manages calcium levels.
Sunshine can also protect people from developing multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, and even forms of cancer.
What’s more, UVB rays produce beta-endorphins, which reduce pain, boost moods, encourage relaxation, heals wounds, curtails depression, and improves the immune system.
While this is all good news, sunlight can be detrimental to people who already have dry or weak hair, as it can damage the follicles and strands even more.
Dermatologist Wilma Bergfeld told Cleveland Health Clinic: “Sun damage can come in the form of discolouration, dry and brittle strands, broken or split ends, thinning and frizziness.”
Hair can be prone to sunburn, just like skin, and prolonged exposure can damage the cuticle, making it dryer, frizzier, easier to break, and full of split ends.
People who already have a problem with their hair falling out will find this will get worse, as their hair dries and weakens.
What’s more, damaged tresses can turn grey prematurely, as the sun can bleach the hair irreversibly. This might mean you are left with whiter locks, instead of blonder ones.
To avoid sun damage to your hair, it is important to look after it in the sunshine, just as you would your skin.
Firstly, you can wear hair sunscreen, as this shields the follicles from UV rays. This product protects the hair strands with a protective layer from the sun.
Those who are already starting to bald need to look after their scalp as well by using an SPF product on their skin, as this area is vulnerable to sunburning.
If you want to avoid the shiny, greasy look, you can get mineral or powder sunscreens to use on your scalp.
Other ways to keep your hair and head protected from the sunlight is to wear a wide-brimmed hat, scarf or umbrella over your head, so the sun is not directly touching it.
You could also avoid the midday sun by going out early or late, instead of during the middle of the day.
It is also worthwhile keeping your hair well moisturised to avoid it getting too dry and falling out. Use conditioning treatments, wash it daily in the summer, drink plenty of water, and avoid salt or chlorinated water.
You should also try to avoid brushing it too often, and use a saw-cut comb when you do.
Men and women whose hair damage is so bad that they want to start hair loss treatment in London should talk to our specialists to find out what their options are.