Hair care

The Ultimate Guide To Sun-Proofing Your Hair This Summer

These SPF sprays and stylers will shield your scalp and strands from the damaging summer sun

by Erica Smith | 1 COMMENT

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For your itchy, flaky, tender, and always vulnerable scalp Before you hit the beach you make sure you cover the back of your ears in sunscreen, but you're still missing one important spot: Your scalp. According to Fusco, individuals with thin hair, fair skin or on medications like tetracycline, antibiotics or Accutane are even more susceptible to sun damage on the scalp. If you've been experiencing any redness or less obvious symptoms like a tightness, it's time to rethink the reach of your SPF radius.

Undo the damage: If your scalp's been scorched, work a nourishing deep treatment mask like Clear Scalp & Hair Intense Hydration Treatment Mask, $5.49, into your routine. Once a week, Fusco recommends applying the mask from root to ends, then combing hair back to cover up your usual part. Skip the rinse, sit poolside (or oceanside) and allow the hydrating cactus extract to replenish your scalp.

Prevent it for good: Fusco recommends directly applying sunscreen to your part using a makeup sponge or Q-tip. "The same rules apply to scalp as do to the face -- a minimum of SPF 15 and reapplication after swimming." If you're worried about ruining your 'do, try applying a flesh toned mineral powder like Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Powder SPF 50, $23, directly to your scalp for DIY dry shampoo and sun protection in one. If you have darker hair, try one of Fusco's handy tips: Apply a clear SPF lip protector like ChopSaver Gold Lip Balm with SPF 15, $3.99. "It isn't greasy or ghostly white, has broad spectrum coverage and applies directly to scalp without affecting hair."

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