Summer is calling, and while we’re all about beach days and golden-hour selfies, let’s not ignore what the sand, sun, and saltwater are doing to your curls behind the scenes.
Just like your skin, your hair is sensitive to UV exposure, dryness, and friction and if you’ve ever come back from holiday with parched, frizzy curls, you know the damage is real. Here’s what’s actually happening, and what to do about it.
🔥 The Sun: UV Damage Is Real
Your curls may feel stronger than they look, but UVA and UVB rays can:
* Break down keratin, the protein that gives hair strength
* Fade natural hair colour or dye faster
* Make curls dry, brittle, and more prone to frizz
Unlike your skin, your hair doesn’t burn, but prolonged sun exposure weakens the hair shaft, leading to rough texture and dullness over time.
🏖️ Sand: Tiny Grains, Big Trouble
Sand is abrasive. When it gets trapped in your roots or rubs against your strands, it causes:
Friction, which raises the cuticle layer and leads to moisture loss
Scalp irritation, especially if not cleansed properly
Tangles and knots, particularly in tightly coiled hair
Basically: sand = sneaky breakage risk.
🌊 Saltwater & Chlorine: The Moisture Strippers
Ocean water and pool days feel great, but both are harsh on curls:
* Salt pulls moisture out of the hair, leaving it dry and crunchy
* Chlorine can strip away natural oils and cause damage to the cuticle
* If you’ve coloured your hair? These effects are even worse.
🛡️ How to Protect Your Hair in the Elements
You don’t need to avoid the beach - just go in with a plan:
1. Pre-hydrate before you go
Use a deep conditioner like our Reactivating Formula Deep Conditioner the night before to lock in moisture and build strength.
2. Create a barrier
Apply a leave-in conditioner or lightweight oil before hitting the sun. This helps seal in hydration and adds a layer of UV protection.
3. Cover up
Rock a satin-lined hat, scarf, or protective style like braids to reduce direct exposure and tangling.
4. Rinse, then rehydrate
After your swim or beach day, rinse your hair ASAP and follow up with a hydrating shampoo and mask.
The sun, sand, and sea don’t have to wreck your curls - as long as you treat your hair like your skin: protect, hydrate, and care daily. Your curls will thank you.