Summer hair care: How to protect your hair from the sun, salt water, and chlorine
Summer is generous with sunshine, swimming, and freedom. But for your hair, it’s one of the most demanding times of the year. UV radiation breaks down the hair’s protein structure, salt water dries it out, and chlorine in pools can change both its color and texture. The good news: with the right routine, your hair can get through summer without damage.
What sun and swimming actually do to your hair
UV radiation affects the hair’s keratin just as it affects the skin: it breaks down the structure and makes hair more brittle and dull over time. Salt water opens the hair’s cuticle and dries it out, while chlorine can oxidize the hair’s natural pigments and give light-colored hair a yellowish or greenish tint.
It’s not about avoiding summer, but about giving your hair the support it needs.
Wash your hair the right way in summer
Salt water and chlorine should be rinsed out of your hair after every swim, but that doesn’t mean you need to shampoo as often. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water right after swimming, and shampoo only when your hair really needs it.
The Editor’s Note: A common mistake is washing your hair more often in summer because it feels weighed down by salt and sun. Instead, start with a thorough rinse using clean water. That’s often enough and avoids putting unnecessary strain on your scalp.
When you do shampoo, choose a sulfate-free option that cleanses gently without stripping away the moisture your hair is already struggling to retain.
Give your ends extra care
The ends are the oldest and most exposed parts of your hair. In summer, they need a little extra care. FOAM’s Dreamy Hair conditioner bar works well as an intensive treatment: wet a little of the bar and work it into the ends after washing. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing. The result is softer, more resilient lengths.
Protect your hair before you dive in
Just as you apply sunscreen to your skin, you can prepare your hair before swimming. Wet your hair with clean water before going into the sea or pool; a damp hair strand absorbs less salt and chlorine than a dry one.
A summer routine doesn’t have to be complicated. It just needs to be thoughtful.