It makes sense that applying after-sun care products [1] to burned skin is more intuitive than smearing the stuff onto your hair [2] (Nothing beats the cooling effect of aloe-infused gels and lotions after a long day at the beach.) According to the experts, using the moisture-restoring, products on your hair is also important when you plan to spend a day out in the sun.
"When your hair is over-exposed to the sun, your hair colour will fade significantly," said New York City hairstylist Nicole Casamassima said. "This exposure can also make your hair more dry which invites frizz."
Casamassima tells her clients to wet their hair and load it up with a great conditioning mask [3] prior to going to the beach or hanging by the pool. "Doing this before you go outside, will help to create a barrier between your hair and the harsh sun rays," she said. She likes the Nexxus Humectress Mask [4] ($5) (she's a spokesperson for the brand).
If your hair is feeling drier, looks less shiny, or the colour is starting to fade, the damage has already been done and it's time to start using an after-sun hair product. Cosmetic chemist Ginger King said that after-sun care products is basically a deep conditioner that typically contains oils. "Not all oils are created equally, as some coat the strands, while some penetrate," she said. "You need both." She explains that an after-sun care product that contains coconut oil specifically will both moisturise and protect the hair.
Ahead, see seven after-sun hair care products that will give your hair a little R and R.
Davines SU Hair Mask
The Davines SU Hair Mask [5] ($28) is an emollient cream that will leave sun-exposed hair shiny and hydrated.
Aveda Sun Care After-Sun Hair Masque
The Aveda Sun Care After-Sun Hair Masque [6] ($29) smells earthy and uses protein and plant oils to restore hair health post-sun exposure.
Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave In Conditioner
The Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave In Conditioner [7] ($26) will give curls back its resilience, shape, and bounce after a day at the beach.
Alterna Bamboo Beach 1 Minute Recovery Masque
In just one minute — you read that right — the rich Alterna Bamboo Beach 1 Minute Recovery Masque [8] ($22) deeply hydrates dry, brittle hair.
Klorane Sun Radiance Rich Restorative Conditioner with Ylang-Ylang Wax
Klorane Sun Radiance Rich Restorative Conditioner with Ylang-Ylang Wax [9] ($20) uses shea butter to moisturise and soften hair, as well as keratin to help repair damage caused by the sun exposure.
Tigi Travel Size Bed Head Totally Beachin' Mellow After-Sun Conditioner
After shampooing the ocean water from your hair, restore moisture with the Tigi Travel Size Bed Head Totally Beachin' Mellow After-Sun Conditioner [10] ($10). The best part is that this travel-sized tube fits snug in your beach bag.
Kerastase Soleil Cc Creme Correction Complete
Kerastase Soleil Cc Creme Correction Complete [11] ($18) is a leave-in conditioner that gives hair back its luster, while also detangling.