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Wednesday's Beauty Question: Should You Protect Your Hair from the Sun?

Does UV Damage Hair?

The sun's UV rays weaken keratin proteins and dry out hair fibers, while also triggering oxidation. This causes hair cuticles to lift, resulting in natural lightening. Hair itself doesn't sunburn, but your scalp can. By summer's end, unprotected hair often feels dehydrated, brittle, and weakened. Factors like wind, saltwater, chlorine, and sand make it worse—especially for color-treated, porous hair—leading to split ends and a straw-like texture.

How to Protect Hair Before Sun Exposure

Skip body sunscreen on hair; it's not formulated for strands and will leave them greasy. Instead, choose hair products with built-in UV filters. Braid your hair to minimize tangles, or opt for the best defense: a hat or shade under a dark umbrella (clear ones let UV rays through).

Our recommendation: Phytoplage Protective Veil (indicative price: 19€)

How to Repair Hair After a Day in the Sun

In the evening, gently brush to remove salt and sand. Follow with a mild shampoo, then deeply moisturize using a mask, leave-in cream, or nourishing oil for that enviable 'wet look' shine. Apply oil overnight to replenish moisture and nutrients—your hair will thank you all summer long.

Our recommendations: Garnier Soleil Ultra Doux shampoo with Monoi Oil and Neroli (indicative price: €3.50) and The Beauty Hair Oil Soleil des Îles with Monoï de Tahiti (price: €7.15).

Got a beauty question? Share it in the comments—you could be next week's feature!