Don’t Skip This One Thing if You Color Your Hair in Summer

Summer is tough on hair color – between the sun, pool, saltwater, and all the extra washes from sweating, your color is out here fighting for its life.

If you’re investing money into color, your products better be protecting that investment.

Otherwise, you’re literally rinsing your money down the drain.

And the one thing most people forget to use?

A UV protectant.

(Yep – your hair needs sunscreen too.)

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Why summer is so hard on your hair color

• UV rays break down the pigment molecules in your color – just like they fade fabric.
• Chlorine opens the cuticle and strips color
• Saltwater + sweat dry out your hair and make color look dull.
• And over-washing from heat or workouts? That just speeds up the fading.

The one thing you can’t skip if you color your hair

A UV protectant before sun exposure.

Think of it like SPF for your strands. It creates a barrier between your hair and all the stuff trying to rob it of shine, tone, and life.

Most people don’t realize how much the sun fades color until they see brassy streaks, dull ends, or uneven tones mid-summer. This one habit can save all that.

What I use + recommend

I apply Healthy Sexy Hair Moisturizing Love Oil from mid-length to ends after I towel dry my hair. Then I spray IGK Good Behavior Spirulina Protein Smoothing Spray over the top layer after my other products. This spray also helps tame frizz and flyaways which I really need with all my baby hairs I have lately. The spray is activated with heat, like a blow dryer or flat iron.

If you prefer having less products to use, It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In protects color as well as 10 other things like detangles, smooths, and reduces frizz. I used this spray for many years. I think the only reason I stopped is because I tried new products, as any stylist and blogger does. But this reminded me that I should go back to it, haha.

I’ve also used Joico Defy Damage Protective Shield and really like that. It guards against heat, UV, and pollution. It also makes hair stronger, softer, and shinier. Yes please.

Personally, I prefer sprays close to the top of my head since they aren’t as heavy and don’t look greasy as easily. And creams or oils for mid-lengths and down since they feel more moisturizing.

All 4 of these products are cruelty-free.

More Pro Tips from a Licensed Cosmetologist

• Apply your UV protectant before beach days, hikes, or even just driving (yes, UV comes through the windows). Honestly, I use it every time I wash my hair.
• Wear a hat for extra protection when you can.
• Rinse hair with cool water after swimming or sweating to help close the cuticle and keep moisture in.
• Wash less often (dry shampoo is your BFF)

If you’re going to spend money on color, don’t skip the product that keeps it vibrant long after the appointment. UV damage is sneaky but this is a super simple way to keep your hair looking and feeling amazing all summer long.

And if you’re already in the burnout recovery zone… this is one small way to care for yourself without adding another “should” to your list.

Got questions about summer hair care, healing from burnout, or just want to say hi?

I’d love to hear from you – click here to send me a message or leave a comment below.