We're familiar with UV rays' harm to skin, a living organ. Hair, being non-living, seems safe—but it's not. UVB rays aggressively oxidize keratin bonds within the hair fiber, making it rough, less light-reflective, and breakage-prone. UVA rays penetrate deeply, fading color-treated pigments for a dull look. Natural pigments fare better, but damage accumulates. That sun-bleached blonde? It's oxidation at work.
A hat offers the best shield, blocking UV entirely. Tie long hair up for extra coverage. No hat? Reach for hair sunscreens with UV filters, identical to those for skin. Skin sunscreens work too, but oily textures suit hair best. No universal SPF exists for hair—only René Furterer's KPF index measures preserved keratin. Otherwise, scan ingredients for ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate near the top, ensuring potency.
Apply before exposure, reapplying every two hours during prolonged sun time, just like on skin. Follow product-specific dosage for your hair type and formula to avoid greasiness. Post-exposure, shampoo and restore with a targeted treatment.
Thanks to David Baco, René Furterer formulation laboratory manager.
