Summer is a time for beach trips, barbecues, and sunshine. But along with the joys of summer come some less pleasant side effects, like hair loss. While it's normal to shed some hair every day, excessive hair loss can be distressing. If you've noticed more hair falling out during the summer months, you're not alone. Several common mistakes people make during the summer can contribute to hair loss. In this article, we'll explore some of these mistakes and what you can do to keep your locks healthy all summer long.
1. Overexposure to the Sun
Protect your mane from the sun's harmful rays
Spending time outdoors in the summer sun is enjoyable, but it can also damage your hair. Just like your skin, your hair can suffer from sunburn. Overexposure to the sun's UV rays can weaken the hair shaft, leading to breakage and hair loss. To protect your hair from sun damage, wear a hat or scarf when spending extended periods outdoors, and use hair products with UV protection.
2. Chlorine and Saltwater Damage
Chlorine and saltwater can wreak havoc on your hair
Whether you're lounging by the pool or frolicking in the ocean, chlorine and saltwater can take a toll on your hair. Chlorine, commonly found in swimming pools, strips the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Saltwater can have a similar effect, causing dehydration and breakage. To minimize damage, rinse your hair with fresh water after swimming and use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to replenish lost moisture.
3. Overwashing
Are you washing your hair too often?
In the summer heat, it's tempting to wash your hair frequently to keep it feeling fresh. However, overwashing can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and increased shedding. Aim to wash your hair no more than every other day, and use a gentle shampoo formulated for your hair type. If you find that your hair gets oily between washes, try using a dry shampoo to absorb excess oil.
4. Tight Hairstyles
Loosen up your hairstyle to prevent hair loss
While sleek ponytails and tight buns may be fashionable, they can also contribute to hair loss. Pulling your hair back tightly can put strain on the hair follicles, leading to traction alopecia—a type of hair loss caused by excessive tension on the hair shafts. To prevent this, opt for looser hairstyles and avoid pulling your hair back too tightly. If you must wear your hair up, use gentle hair ties and avoid styles that pull on the hairline.
5. Neglecting Hydration
Stay hydrated for healthy hair
Proper hydration is essential for overall health, including the health of your hair. During the summer months, it's easy to become dehydrated, especially if you're spending a lot of time outdoors or engaging in physical activity. Dehydration can affect the hair follicles, leading to dryness and increased shedding. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body—and your hair—hydrated from the inside out.
6. Heat Styling Overload
Limit heat styling to protect your hair
While sleek, straight hair may be your go-to look for summer, excessive heat styling can damage your hair. Curling irons, flat irons, and blow dryers can all cause heat damage, leading to breakage and hair loss. To minimize damage, limit your use of heat styling tools and opt for heat-free hairstyles whenever possible. When you do use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage and always use the lowest heat setting necessary to achieve your desired style.
7. Poor Diet and Nutrition
Eat a balanced diet for healthy hair
Your diet plays a significant role in the health of your hair. A diet lacking in essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals can lead to hair loss and other hair problems. During the summer months, it's essential to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support hair growth and strength. Incorporate foods like salmon, avocado, nuts, and leafy greens into your diet to promote healthy hair from the inside out.
Keep your hair healthy all summer long
While summer can be tough on your hair, avoiding these common mistakes can help keep your locks looking their best. Protect your hair from the sun's harmful rays, avoid chlorine and saltwater damage, and be mindful of how often you wash and style your hair. By taking good care of your hair and making healthy choices, you can enjoy beautiful, luscious locks all summer long.
Maruti's Chutku EV surprised everyone! This car ran at a top speed of 200 kmph
Kia Sonet achieved this milestone, sold 4 lakh vehicles in less than four years
New update in Tesla's Cybertruck, many new features included