In those who carry the genes for pattern baldness, hair loss is inevitable. However, environmental factors can affect how these genes are expressed. Although diet is certainly one of these variables, sun exposure is another.How the Sun Can Damage Your Hair and FolliclesUV damage can age the scalp and compromise the health of the hair follicles. These rays interact with oxygen molecules on the surface. This can knock off single electrons, creating unstable free radical compounds. They will try to "steal" electrons from other molecules, which in turn creates a chain reaction that damages tissues like the hair follicles.It can also altar and weaken the protein structure in the cuticle (outer layer) and cortex (center) of the hair shafts themselves. Therefore, the sun can contribute to hair loss at the roots, or through breakage.This is also the reason why hair looks dry, frizzy and brittle over time as compared to our childhood years.Also, UV rays can also affect the hair's pigment, causing your natural color to fade.Many people are well aware that the regular use of sunscreen is essential for protecting the skin against premature aging and the development of cancerous lesions. But a new form of awareness is emerging on the importance of sun protection for the hair and scalp.Choosing ProductsLighter formulations are available as spray in mists. There are also sunscreens available as powders. These can be used on the scalp. But they are not very effective on your actual hair. To protect the shafts, choose other forms of products such as:(1) styling gels(2) leave in conditionersShampoos and conditioners which are marked as being able to protect the hair from the sun will be rinsed out. So these are not very likely to offer the best form of protection.However, if you plan to use hair sunscreens on a regular basis, you may want to incorporate a clarifying shampoo and conditioner to prevent the buildup of SPF in your hair.Some articles online recommend diluting regular sunscreen in water and storing it in a spray bottle to use as a mist.Wearing a HatIf you are interested in a more simple solution for protection against hair loss, you may want to consider wearing a wide brimmed hat or a baseball cap. Or perhaps combining products with protective gear would be most suitable for your summer lifestyle plans.Save Color Changes For Cooler WeatherIf you are interested in keeping your hair protected, try to postpone your plans for coloring until later (e.g. in the autumn or winter) The sun can interact with these chemicals and this will compound the damage to your hair.
