We are often made aware of the damage that overexposure to the sun can do to us. While it is important to bear this in mind, it is also worth knowing that sunlight can be beneficial in our growth and development. This article will explore the link between sunlight and hair growth.
Sunlight can help to stimulate hair growth. Not only this, but a little daily exposure to the sun can actually reduce or stop your hair from falling out. The secret lies in getting a balanced dose of natural Vitamin D.
What Are the Benefits of Sunlight for Hair?
A little exposure to natural sunlight on hair has a few important benefits:
Hair Growth
The sun is, of course, an excellent natural source of Vitamin D. In this way, exposure to the sun (or heliosis as it is also referred to) helps to promote hair growth as it helps create new hair follicles.
As with most things, balance is key, and as such, you should avoid overexposure to the sun’s rays.
It is widely recommended that basking in the sun’s midday rays for 10 to 30 minutes is enough to stimulate the vitamin D you need.
Combats Hair Loss
Closely linked to the point above, sunlight exposure can help combat hair loss.
Once again, it’s thanks to Vitamin D, which is essential for stimulating hair growth thus reducing and preventing hair loss.
Remember not to overdo it though, as overdoing your hair’s exposure to the sun can have the opposite effect: too much exposure can deplete levels of Vitamins C and E that are also necessary for hair growth.
Treats Acne And Fungal Infections
In moderation, the sun’s rays can help treat acne and fungal infections on the scalp. It provides relief for these symptoms by slowing the growth of skin cells.
If not treated the fungus can weaken hair fibers which makes them more susceptible to breakage.
Also Read: How To Use Pomelo Oil For Hair Growth
Does Sunlight Work For Hair Growth?
Sunlight supports your body in producing Vitamin D and this stimulates hair growth.
A study conducted by the National Institute of Health cited Vitamin D as being integral to the healthy growth of new hair follicles.
And healthy follicles mean healthy hair and a healthy hair cycle. This means your scalp can continue to produce strong, lustrous hair full of vitality.
Can Too Much Sunlight Cause Damage to Your Hair?
While a little sunlight can have a positive effect on your mane, care needs to be taken so that you are not overexposed.
To reiterate a point made earlier in the article, haircare professionals recommend a period of 10 to 30 minutes of exposure each day in the midday sun.
This period will allow you to enjoy the benefits while avoiding any adverse effects.
Breakage
Too much of the sun’s UV rays can break down the hair’s proteins. This can result in fragile hair and increased breakage.
Dullness
This UV ray damage to the hair can also result in dull lifeless hair color whereby the pigment has been sapped from the strands.
Loss Of Moisture
Too much sun exposure can leave you with hair that is dry and frizzy and in search of hydration. This means hair becomes difficult to style.
What Can You Do to Revive Brittle Hair after Sun Exposure?
If you have been a bit overzealous in exposing your locks to the sun, don’t despair. We have compiled a few remedies to help you breathe life back into damaged overexposed hair.
Aloe Vera Hair Mask
Not only does aloe vera have reparative properties for your skin, but it can also help heal your hair.
Aloe vera restores softness to sun-damaged hair. Amla restores strength to hair that has become brittle in order to minimize damage.
Combine amla juice with aloe vera gel for a hair mask to rejuvenate your hair from the very first use. Leave to work for about 20 mins then shampoo, condition, and rinse.
Sulfate Free Shampoo
Sulfate, a common ingredient in many shampoos, can cause problems for weak damaged hair because it strips beneficial oils.
Use a sulfate-free shampoo to get your hair back to its full health.
Avocado Hair Mask
Blended with oil, avocado is an excellent ingredient that nourishes the hair, making the ends less dry and hair softer and shinier.
Combine 1 avocado, 2 tablespoons of honey, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and a few drops of lemon juice in a bowl.
Apply and leave to work in your hair for 20 minutes then rinse, shampoo and condition as normal.
Warm Coconut Oil
Warming a little coconut oil until it becomes a liquid consistency makes another great reparative mask for your hair.
Apply this to the ends but avoid the roots to avoid greasy-looking hair. Leave for 30 minutes to 2 hours then wash out.
Protect By Conditioning
Apply deep conditioner before spending any prolonged periods in the sun in order to avoid any more damage.
This will soak into your hair, rather than sitting on the surface as other products do, so will give a layer of protection.
Wash Hair After Swimming
Leaving chlorine in your hair after swimming is a big no-no. This can lead to further moisture loss. Try to make sure you wash your hair before sunbathing to avoid additional damage
Cool Water Rinse
After washing and conditioning, treat your locks to a blast of cool water. This seals the hair cuticles, locking in moisture gained from conditioning.
Regular Trims
Getting rid of split ends is the key to shiny hair. This is particularly important if your hair is dry from heat damage.
Avoid Ponytails
To avoid additional breakage that hair bobbles can cause, try to wear your hair down as much as you can.
If a ponytail is unavoidable, make sure you wear it at slightly different heights each day to avoid too much pressure on your hair strands.
To round off, sunlight can benefit hair and promote hair growth. But moderation is key to avoid overexposure and damaged hair.
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