We all know how important it is to wear sunscreen every day and powder sunscreen is our suggestion for men. Just like our skin, our hair should not be neglected either. UVA/UVB rays can damage perfectly healthy hair. Mix those rays with chlorine, salt water, and summer heat and it’s a recipe for disaster. The sun’s rays can leave hair dry, brittle, and discolored. If you have color-treated hair, the sun’s rays fade color fast. From harsh sun rays beaming down out at the pool to a long day at the beach, summer is the most harmful season for your hair. Read this blog post for some quick tricks that keep your hair damage-free this summer and always looking fresh.
Protect Your Hair From Chlorine
When the days are hot, swimming at the pool is a great way to cool off. However, as fun as it is to go swimming, chlorine can be significantly damaging to your hair. To minimize the damage, wet your hair with tap water before getting into the pool. Interestingly, tap water acts as a barrier and will slow chlorine from penetrating the strands. This is beneficial because the wetter the hair is, the fewer chemicals it soaks up from the chlorine. Another way to prevent chlorine damage is by wearing a swim cap. Swim caps help minimize chlorine’s effects on the hair (aka swimmer’s hair).
Also, be sure to rinse and/or wash your hair quickly after swimming so the chlorine does not have time to set in. If chlorine has set in and the hair feels brittle, try a professional chlorine-removing shampoo. Not only can chlorine turn blonde hair green, but it can also contribute to hair loss. Simply put, keep your hair full and fresh by protecting your hair as best as possible from chlorine.
Provide A Little Cover
Offer your hair a little shade from the sun by covering it up when possible. For example, on a sunny day at the beach or on a long hike, wear a hat. Hats are a stylish way to keep the sun out of your eyes and protect your face from getting sunburned. Wearing a hat will also protect your hair from damaging rays. This is especially true if you color your hair. Anyone who colors their hair should make wearing a hat on sunny days a priority. Don’t forget about that swim cap when going for a pool swim too!
Use Hair Powder Sunscreen
There are numerous options available that offer prevention of hair damage. Plan ahead for a long day at the pool by using some leave-in conditioner beforehand. Keeping your hair properly moisturized will limit the damage caused by chlorine. Of course, when you are out in the sun, use products that protect against UV rays. You would be surprised how many products are available specifically to prevent sun damage. As you shop around for sunscreen also keep an eye out for products that will protect your hair. Yes, there is sunscreen specifically for the hair!
Hydration Is Key
Make sure you are properly conditioning your hair after every shampoo, especially during the summer months. Going to a men’s hairstylist for a deep hair conditioning treatment is recommended for severely sun-damaged hair. Avoid heat-activated products like straighteners and blow-dryers as much as you can, especially during the summer season. Instead, try going for a towel dry and embrace your natural look! This will help your hair stay hydrated during the summer days of pool parties, beach outings, and hiking adventures.
Reverse Sun-Damaged Hair
Sun and chlorine can be quite damaging to hair. This is especially true if it’s frequently exposed to the sun and swimming pools. Chlorine can strip the hair of its natural oils, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Powder sunscreen products and sun protection will prevent the need to correct sun damage. However, if your hair has been damaged by fun in the sun, here are some steps you can take to help reverse the damage:
- Chlorine Removing Powders: Malibu Swimmers Wellness Remedy is a unique powder that revitalizes chlorine damaged hair. No more stringy, tangled, discolored swimmers’ hair with this product. It will remove chlorine, copper, and other pool elements from the hair in as little as one treatment. After using the powder, hair will look shinier and healthier.
- Clarifying Shampoo: Use a clarifying shampoo specifically designed to remove chlorine buildup. Look for a shampoo that is sulfate-free and gentle on the hair. Use it once a week to help eliminate any chlorine residue.
- Deep Conditioning: Incorporate deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine. These treatments can help restore moisture and repair the damage caused by chlorine. Look for products that are rich in hydrating ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, and keratin.
- Coconut Oil Treatment: Coconut oil can be a great natural remedy to restore moisture and shine to chlorine-damaged hair. Apply warm coconut oil to your hair, focusing on the ends. Leave it on for a few hours or overnight, then wash it out with a mild shampoo.
- Protein Treatments: Consider using protein treatments to help repair the protein structure of your hair. Look for products that contain hydrolyzed keratin or other protein-rich ingredients. However, be cautious not to overuse protein treatments, as too much protein can make hair brittle.
- Trim Regularly: If your hair has split ends or is severely damaged, getting regular trims can help remove the damaged portions and prevent further splitting.
Remember that reversing sun-damaged hair takes time and consistent care. Be patient and gentle with your hair, and avoid harsh treatments that could exacerbate the damage. If your hair is severely damaged, consulting a professional men’s hairstylist for personalized advice can be beneficial.
FOR MEN Salon|Spa Lake Forest, CA
FOR MEN Salon | Spa is the premiere full-service men’s only salon in Orange County California. We are a male-exclusive, masculine grooming environment where men get all of their hair, nail, skin, and body care treatments. A country club atmosphere, FOR MEN Salon | Spa clients experience current techniques, and the latest products designed exclusively for men all in a space that he does not have to share with their female counter-parts. Why choose FOR MEN Salon | Spa? Because we are different; the tools we use, the products we choose, and the exclusive services men need.
Summer Hair Care Services
Summer can be harsh on hair due to increased exposure to sunlight, humidity, and outdoor activities. Men’s hair care during summer should focus on maintaining healthy hair, preventing damage, and managing any specific issues that may arise. Here are some summer hair care services for men and their benefits:
- Haircuts and Trims: Regular haircuts and trims help to manage hair growth, especially during summer when the hair tends to grow faster. A shorter hairstyle can also make it easier to maintain and style, keeping you cooler in the heat.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Deep conditioning treatments help to restore moisture and nourishment to dry and sun-damaged hair. They can prevent excessive dryness, frizz, and breakage caused by exposure to the sun, chlorine, and saltwater.
- Scalp Treatments: Scalp treatments, such as exfoliating and hydrating masks, help to maintain a healthy scalp environment. This is crucial for promoting hair growth and preventing issues like dandruff and itchiness, which can be exacerbated by heat and sweat.
- UV Protection Treatments: UV protection treatments provide a barrier against the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. These treatments can prevent color fading, dryness, and weakening of the hair structure.
- Color Protection Services: For men with colored or highlighted hair, color protection services help maintain the vibrancy of the color. UV rays and exposure to pool chemicals can cause color fading, so using color-protecting products and treatments can extend the life of the hair color.
- Anti-Frizz Treatments: Humidity during summer can lead to frizzy hair. Anti-frizz treatments, like keratin treatments or smoothing serums, help to manage frizz and make hair easier to style.
- Cooling Scalp Massages: A cooling scalp massage with appropriate oils or products can provide relief from the heat and refresh the scalp. It can also stimulate blood circulation, promoting hair health and growth.
- Chlorine and Saltwater Damage Repair: If you spend a lot of time in the pool or ocean, chlorine and saltwater can damage hair. Clarifying treatments can help remove chlorine and mineral buildup, preventing dryness and brittleness.
- Hydrating Hair Masks: Regular hydration is essential to combat dryness and maintain hair health. Hydrating hair masks can provide an extra boost of moisture, leaving hair soft, smooth, and manageable.
- Leave-In Conditioners with SPF: Using leave-in conditioners with built-in SPF protection can safeguard your hair from UV damage while providing nourishment.
Benefits of Summer Hair Care Services
There are many benefits of summer hair care services for men. For example, maintaining hair health is one. Regular care keeps the hair and scalp healthy, ensuring optimal growth and reducing the risk of issues like dandruff and scalp irritation. Improving manageability is another example. Proper treatments and products make hair easier to manage and style, even in hot and humid conditions.
Additional benefits include an enhanced appearance which boosts confidence. Summer hair care services can help you maintain a polished and groomed look throughout the season. A healthy, well-groomed head of hair can boost your confidence, making you feel better about your appearance. When considering these services, it’s important to consult with a professional hairstylist or barber who can recommend the best treatments based on your hair type, concerns, and preferences.
Hair Powder Sunscreen Products
Powder sunscreen products are a type of sun protection that comes in a powdered form. These products are similar to loose makeup powder or mineral makeup that women use. They are designed to provide sun protection by creating a barrier on the skin’s surface. This helps to block or absorb the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These powders usually contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are commonly found in traditional sunscreens as well.
Pros of using Powder Sunscreen
The benefits of using powder sunscreen products include:
- Ease of Application: Powder sunscreens are often easier to apply compared to traditional liquid or lotion sunscreens. They can be brushed or dusted onto the skin, making them particularly useful for quick touch-ups throughout the day.
- Non-Greasy Feel: Many people prefer powder sunscreens because they tend to feel less greasy or oily on the skin. This can be especially advantageous for those with oily or combination skin types.
- No Need for Water: Powder sunscreens don’t require water for application, which can be useful in situations where water isn’t readily available, like when you’re at the beach or on a hike.
- Reduced Risk of Spills and Leaks: Powder sunscreen is less likely to spill or leak in your bag compared to liquid sunscreen, making it a convenient option for travel or outdoor activities.
- Minimal Chemical Absorption: Some users prefer powder sunscreens because they often contain fewer chemical additives. Physical UV blockers, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, sit on the skin’s surface. They do not absorb into the skin like some individuals prefer.
- Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Powder sunscreens can be a good option for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin, as they might be less likely to clog pores or cause skin irritation.
Cons of Using Powder Sunscreens
However, it’s important to note that there are also some considerations when using powder sunscreens:
- Coverage: Powder sunscreens might not provide even or comprehensive coverage as liquid sunscreens, so they might be more suitable for touch-ups rather than initial full coverage.
- Application Amount: To ensure adequate sun protection, you need to apply a sufficient amount of powder sunscreen. This might mean reapplying more frequently than you would with traditional sunscreen.
- Wind and Dispersion: In windy conditions, it can be challenging to apply powder sunscreen evenly without it getting dispersed in the air. This can lead to uneven coverage.
- Inhaling Particles: There’s a possibility of inhaling the powder particles while applying it, which could potentially be harmful if the sunscreen contains certain ingredients.
Ultimately, the choice between using powder sunscreen or traditional sunscreen depends on your preferences, skin type, and the specific situation in which you plan to use it. It’s important to choose a product with broad-spectrum protection (against both UVA and UVB rays) and to follow proper application and reapplication guidelines to ensure effective sun protection.