Make SPF Your BFF

How to Protect Your Hair & Scalp in the Summer Heatwave – with Davines at Peter Gotthard Hairdressing in Harrogate

There’s nothing quite like a glorious summer's day - whether at home in Harrogate or further afield and, with the recent heatwave, we’re all spending more time outside enjoying the sunshine. While it’s important to soak up the warmth and light, don’t forget that your hair and scalp need just as much protection from the sun as your skin does.

Extended sun exposure can leave hair feeling dry, brittle, and dull, while also causing colour to fade and the scalp to burn. At Peter Gotthard Hairdressing, we believe that healthy hair starts with good habits – especially when the temperature rises.

Why Sun Protection for Your Hair Matters

The summer sun may feel wonderful on your skin, but it can quickly take its toll on your hair. UV rays can cause the structure of the hair to weaken, resulting in dryness, frizz, and split ends. Hair colour – particularly blondes, redheads, and those with grey or chemically treated hair – can fade or discolour after too much time in direct sunlight. Scalps are also vulnerable to sunburn, which can lead to irritation, redness, and flaking.

Traditional sunscreens tend to leave hair greasy, so it’s essential to use products that are specially formulated for both hair and scalp.

Summer Haircare Essentials from Davines

One of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your hair in a heatwave is to introduce sun care into your everyday routine. The Davines SU Collection has been created with summer in mind, offering lightweight protection that doesn’t weigh hair down. SU Milk is a hydrating leave-in spray enriched with UV filters to defend against discolouration and damage. It’s designed to be applied to damp or dry hair before sun exposure and combed through as you would with any leave-in conditioner. The formula is beautifully light and won’t leave any residue, making it ideal for sunny days out or holidays abroad.

For added protection, SU Protective Cream with SPF 30 can be used directly on the scalp and hairline – a brilliant addition to your summer essentials, especially if you’re planning beach trips or long days outdoors.

How to Care for Hair After Sun Exposure

After a day spent in the sun, your hair and scalp need a little TLC. The SU Hair & Body Wash is gentle yet effective, cleansing away salt, chlorine, and product build-up while soothing and moisturising the skin and hair. It’s packed with antioxidants to calm any inflammation caused by the heat and leaves the hair soft and refreshed.

For a deeper treatment, the SU Hair Mask helps to restore lost moisture, reduce tangles, and bring shine and manageability back to sun-stressed hair. If your scalp feels sensitive or tight after too much time in the sun, the SU Aftersun gel provides instant relief with its cooling and hydrating formula.

Personalised Protection for Your Hair Type

Not all hair reacts to sun in the same way, so it’s worth considering a few extra steps depending on your hair type. Blonde or highlighted hair is particularly prone to fading and lightening in strong sunlight. The Heart of Glass Sheer Glaze is a thermal protector that also offers defence against UV exposure, helping maintain the integrity and tone of your colour. Grey hair naturally contains less moisture, making it more susceptible to dryness. The MOMO Hair Potion is a leave-on cream that replenishes hydration and softness without adding weight, keeping silver tones smooth and vibrant even in high heat.

Curly hair can quickly lose definition in hot, humid weather. The LOVE CURL Primer helps curls maintain their shape while providing a protective barrier against both sun and humidity. It’s an ideal addition to your summer styling routine, giving your curls the support they need.

Simple Ways to Keep Your Hair Safe in the Heat

In addition to using professional haircare, a few mindful habits can go a long way during a heatwave. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat or lightweight scarf offers natural shade for your hair and scalp. Letting your hair dry naturally rather than using heated tools gives it a much-needed break, especially when combined with the drying effects of sun exposure.

Staying well hydrated and eating a nutrient-rich diet also supports healthy hair from within, helping to maintain elasticity, shine, and strength throughout the summer months.

Visit Our Harrogate Salon for Summer Hair Advice

The warmer months should be a time to feel good and look great – and that includes taking extra care of your hair. Whether you need a fresh summer cut, colour top-up, or expert advice on how to protect your hair during the heatwave, we’re here to help.

Healthy, protected, and radiant hair is just an appointment away. Call us on 01423 504301 or book online.