Sun safety is an important part of maintaining healthy locks and keeping your hair in its best possible state, but it is no easy feat. From the types of protection you should be using to the ingredients your sunscreen should contain, there is a lot to learn and discover. Read on, and we will unequivocally answer all of your pressing sun protection questions.
What Are the Different Types of Sun Protection I Should Be Using?
When it comes to sun protection, you need to employ a 3-tier approach; physical, topical, and internal protection.
First, physical protection is the most important. Your skin needs to be shielded from the sun with protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. Secondly, topical protection is necessary for actual sun exposure and should be applied liberally and repeatedly. Your sunscreen should be SPF 30 and above, waterproof, and have broad-spectrum coverage. Additional protection can include SPF-filled moisturizers and makeup. Finally, internal protection comes in the form of dietary sunscreen – vitamins and foods that can protect your skin from sun damage.
What Ingredients Should My Sunscreen Have?
Your sunscreen should contain the following ingredients: Homosalate, Octocrylene, Octisalate, and Avobenzone. These are all very effective sunscreens that help to absorb and scatter the sun’s rays. In addition, research has shown that a combination of Vitamin C with natural ingredients like coffee and green tea extracts, plus collagen and silk amino acids, can be highly beneficial to your scalp and hair. Other beneficial ingredients are niacinamide, safflower seed oil, and green tea oil, all of which will protect your scalp and hair from further sun damage.
Will Sunscreen Help Reduce Hair Thinning?
Yes, sunscreen for your scalp can help protect both your hair and scalp from damage due to sun exposure. Sunscreen is designed to block a good portion of UV rays, which can damage the follicles and cause hair thinning. It will also help to nourish and strengthen your hair, making it look shinier and more vibrant.
What Is the Best Way to Apply Sunscreen to Thinning Hair?
The best way to apply sunscreen to areas of thinning hair is to use your fingers to massage it into the scalp. Be sure to apply sunscreen evenly throughout the scalp, including underneath thinner areas with fewer hairs. Make sure to leave the sunscreen to dry on the scalp before styling your hair with any kind of heat, product, or device. This will ensure that the sunscreen is active and effective for a longer period of time.
How Can I Protect My Scalp From Sun Exposure When I'm Outside?
When you are outside, make sure you use a physical barrier, such as a hat or cap, to protect your scalp from sun exposure. In addition, apply a generous amount of sunscreen and don’t forget to reapply every two hours. If you are swimming in the ocean or a pool, go for a waterproof, SPF 30 sunscreen or higher.
Final considerations
At the end of the day, it comes down to a simple takeaway: do not underestimate the power of the sun. While a day in the Florida sun might be an exciting experience, without the right protective measures, it can cause a great deal of damage to your scalp and hair. By taking the time to protect your scalp and hair with the right sunscreen, protective clothing, and dietary sunscreen, you can enjoy the sun with confidence and protect your scalp and hair from long-term damage.
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