Why winter sun still matters here
Cooler temperatures make it easy to forget the sun. Yet Florida light is strong all year, and the winter season is when many residents spend the most time outside, at lunch on a terrace, on the court, on the water or walking by the ocean. Hair arriving from a northern winter is often already dry from indoor heat, which leaves it less ready for strong light.
Cleveland Clinic describes protecting hair from the sun as important year-round, explaining that UV rays dry out strands, weaken them and fade color. The American Academy of Dermatology adds that blonde, light and gray hair is more vulnerable, because it has less of the natural pigment that offers some protection.
Signs the sun is reaching your hair
Sun damage tends to arrive slowly, so it is easy to blame something else. If several of these sound familiar by midseason, your hair would likely welcome more protection. Your stylist can usually tell at a glance, so ask at your next visit.
- Color that fades quickly or turns brassy
- Blonde or silver hair that looks dull or slightly yellow
- Dry, rough ends and more frizz than usual
- Hair that will not hold a curl or a blow-dry as well as before
- A tender or pink part line after time outdoors
Everyday protection
A wide-brimmed hat is still the simplest protection for both hair and scalp, and a silk scarf works well on breezy days. Choose a hat with a close weave, since loosely woven straw lets light through. The American Academy of Dermatology also suggests hair products with SPF, such as leave-in conditioners, sprays and powders, and recommends limiting time in the strongest midday sun.
Remember your scalp, especially along the part. Cleveland Clinic notes that a scalp can burn, particularly where hair is thin or light, and suggests a spray or lotion with SPF 30 or higher on exposed areas. It also advises reapplying about every two hours when you are outside, hair included.
Sun and your color calendar
Plan any lightening for early in the season or well before a sunny trip. The American Academy of Dermatology advises against bleaching or highlighting just before a trip with plenty of sun or pool time, since lightened hair is more easily damaged.
Midseason, a gloss restores tone and shine without a full color appointment. Blondes may want a toner refresh, brunettes a gloss that counters brassiness and silver hair a clear gloss to keep it bright. Tell your colorist how much time you spend outdoors, as it shapes how they formulate and how often they suggest a visit.
Outdoor afternoons, on land and water
A visor shades the face but leaves the crown and part open to the sun, so apply a little scalp protection before a game. On a boat, wind and spray tangle loose hair quickly. A low braid or bun under a hat stays put, and a rinse with fresh water afterward removes salt.
At the pool, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests a swim cap or a leave-in conditioner before swimming, a rinse right afterward and a deep conditioner to restore moisture. If your scalp does get sunburned, postpone any color, since the FDA advises against dyeing hair on a sunburned or irritated scalp.
Moisture and repair through the season
A weekly conditioning mask replaces the moisture sun and salt take away. Keep hot tools on a lower setting with a heat protectant, since sun-dried hair is less able to handle extra heat. A light trim at midseason removes dry ends before they split further. Rinsing with cool water and washing a little less often help color hold, too.
If a sunburn on your scalp blisters, if a spot on your scalp changes or does not heal or if you notice unusual shedding, see a dermatologist. Your stylist is often the first to notice changes on the scalp, so welcome it if they mention something.
Questions
Can hair get sun damage in winter?
Yes. In Florida the sun stays strong through the winter, and UV exposure can dry hair and fade color in any month.
Does hair need sunscreen?
Hair products with SPF or UV filters, such as leave-in conditioners and sprays, add protection. A wide-brimmed hat remains the simplest option.
Can you get a sunburn on your scalp?
Yes, especially along the part or where hair is thin or light. A scalp spray or lotion with sunscreen and a hat help prevent it.
Should I color my hair if my scalp is sunburned?
No. The FDA advises against dyeing hair on a sunburned or irritated scalp, so wait until it has fully healed.
Sources: Cleveland Clinic: How to Protect Your Hair From Sun Damage · American Academy of Dermatology: Must-try summer hair care · U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Hair Dyes
This guide is general information, not medical advice. For scalp, skin or hair-loss concerns, see a dermatologist.