Most of us are aware of the damaging effect of the ultraviolet (UV) rays. Needless to say, our hair faces extreme exposure to the sun. Be it the daily hustle and bustle or attribute it to one’s occupation or lifestyle -- very few amongst us realise the danger imposed on our hair in all seasons, especially the sweltering summers.

The sun’s rays cannot actually burn our hair, all right, but it can certainly affect our hair’s natural protective layer and as a result upsets the hair cuticle. Studies suggest that 3-4 days of protracted exposure to the sun would be enough to affect the scale-like cells covering the hair shaft to peel off. This is what makes your hair dry, dull, or brittle, and also fragile. 

How to deal with hair care in the hot months? 

-  High levels of humidity, the bugbear of summer, also damage hair — humidity causes the hair strands to stretch, making them brittle too. The best thing one can
do is keep the hair healthy by washing them regularly and drying them gently. This can reduce the damaging effects of summer’s humidity on hair.

-  Travelling in a bus or car, or train, with the windows rolled down, to enjoy the outside air in summers, as some of us do, may not be as good as you would have thought. The stiff, warm breeze may leave you with dry and tangled hair, leading to splitting of hair ends. Avoid being outside as much as possible, especially between 10 am and 4 pm; and if you have to be out in the sun, simply carry an umbrella, wear a hat or scarf. You must also drink adequate water — at least one-and-a-half to two litres every day. This will help to flush out toxins.

-  Diet is also just as important. Incorporate a good intake of soya and sprouts into your eating regimen. This is wholesome nourishment for your body and the ‘soul’
of your hair.

-  Dandruff and excess oil on the scalp in summers are other notable concerns. A daily hair wash with a mild, natural anti-dandruff shampoo, such as Dr Batra’s, and a dab of olive oil, would be useful to maintain healthy, natural hair.