Your hair needs to be protected from the sun’s UV rays too, and there are now specialized sunscreens available which cater for hair. Choosing the right one for your hair color might be daunting, so let’s take a look in more detail to help you take the worry out of summertime sun protection.
First of all, you’ll need to know what SPF means. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and indicates how well a product will protect your scalp and locks from the sun’s damaging UV-A and UV-B rays. The higher the SPF number in a sunscreen, the more time it will take for the sun’s rays to cause damage.
One of the first things to consider when evaluating sunscreen for hair color is the ingredients and any potential side effects. Look for sunscreens that offer UVA and UVB protection and don’t contain any fragrances, dyes, or parabens. It’s also important to look for gentle and safe ingredients, like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, mexoryl, and avobenzone, that won’t irritate your scalp or cause any skin allergic reaction. Additionally, seek out additives like safflower seed oil, green tea extract, and licorice root extract to further nourish your hair and provide essential moisture to keep your scalp healthy.
Depending on your hair color, you may also wish to consider natural sunscreens which contain only natural ingredients. Such sunscreens provide an extra layer of protection from the sun’s rays as they don’t contain artificial fragrances which many sunscreens contain. Natural sunscreens are also less likely to interact with hair color and other products, and they typically provide higher levels of SPF protection than synthetic versions.
It’s also wise to consider the environmental impact of sunscreens. Look for products that are free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, palmitates, and nanoparticles as they can be harmful to aquatic environments. Some natural sunscreens are biodegradable and safe for the environment, while offering a good level of protection for your hair.
Finally, check the recommended application times and instructions for your chosen brand of sunscreen. Generally, it’s best to apply the sunscreen twenty minutes before stepping outdoors, and make sure to reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors for an extended period.
Evaluating sunscreen for hair color is important to ensure the best protection for our scalp and hair in the summer months. Consider your hair type, ingredients, environmental impact, and application instructions before making your choice for optimal health and protection.
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