The summer can be a particularly hazardous time for our hair. Not only does it have to cope with changing temperatures, but also a change of scenery if we go on holiday. Often it will be the last thing on our minds as we look to relax and enjoy ourselves.

London Centre of Trichology offers hair loss treatments for both men and women, and has expertise in wide range of hair and scalp conditions. Here is our guide to how you should look after your locks during the hottest part of the year.

Protection from the Sun

The sun can damage your scalp as well as your hair. Sun and heat can make hair brittle and men in particular can be vulnerable to hair loss as a result. Over-exposure to the sun means your scalp can suffer burning and peeling, and it can also increase your chances of developing skin cancer.

An important piece of advice is to wear a hat or some form of headgear as protection. This applies not just on the beach but anywhere outdoors, and you do not need to be on holiday. You are just as vulnerable out in your garden too.

Although there are plenty of stylish hats to choose from, some people still sometimes like to feel the sun on their hair and skin. If this is the case for you, then make sure you remember to apply plenty of sunscreen to your scalp as well as the rest of your exposed skin to protect yourself against the sun’s UV rays.

Precautions in the Pool and the Sea

Most of us enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool or the ocean when the temperature is at its hottest. However, both men’s and women’s hair can be seriously affected in different ways by both environments. The sea can have any number of pollutants and a high salt content which can affect your hair’s natural nutrients, while, in the swimming pool, the main danger is chlorine, which can have a bleach-like effect.

In both cases the advice is the same; wear a cap. If you prefer not to, then giving your hair a rinse with fresh water, before and after you take the plunge, will help get rid of all the unwanted chemicals and foreign bodies.

Don’t Wash It Too Much

During the summer months both men and women’s hair tends to produce more natural oils to cool and moisturise your locks. Even if you are hot, you should try to resist the temptation to wash your hair too much, as this can prevent the oils from doing their work and can dry out your hair even more.

There are also a number of special hydrating shampoos and conditioners which you can try. These will help your hair retain its moisture better over the warmer months.

The Best Summer Styles

It is a good idea to have a trim at the start of the summer, as your hair can grow faster during the season. An early cut will make you less vulnerable to split ends and make it easier to control.

Those with longer hair should generally opt for looser, messier hair styles, as tight ones tend to pull and tear locks which are already under stress because of the heat. A loose braid is probably the best way round this problem.

If you are worried about thinning hair, the London Centre of Trichology (link to http://www.london-centre-trichology.co.uk/treatments.html ) can offer a range of hair loss treatments and advice for both men and women. We are happy talk to you about the causes of male and female hair loss, and our initial consultation is free. Follow the link above if you would like to find out more.

« Back to articles