Should you protect your hair from the sun?
Knack Weekend, 18 July 2025
Does your hair need sun protection? Dr Griet Voet in Knack Weekend on UV damage to hair and what hair products with a sun filter really do.
More and more hair products promise protection against the sun or even repair of sun damage. In Knack Weekend, Dr Griet Voet explains. UV radiation attacks the outer layer of the hair, making it drier, more brittle and rougher, and causing it to lose colour. Light, coloured, bleached or wet hair is more susceptible to this.
Sun-protective hair products usually contain silicones, antioxidants and UV filters, but there is no regulated measurement of their protection factor as there is for sunscreen for the skin. In studies, the protection was disappointing; they mainly prevent discolouration and need to stay in the hair. Products that promise repair mainly coat the hair, making it feel softer. Severe damage to the hair shaft cannot be repaired. The scalp itself, however, can burn.
Key advice
Use sun-protective hair products that stay in the hair rather than being rinsed out.
Do not expect 'repairing' products to truly repair damaged hair.
Do not forget the scalp: it can burn.