During the summer your hair and scalp often become harmed from too much exposure to the sun and to chemicals in the swimming pool. Below are a few tips to help you reduce the potential damage:
Swimming:
With frequent swimming in the sea or pool during the summer the salt &/or chlorine really takes a toll on the hair. To reduce this problem, I suggest the following:
1) wet your hair with tap water before going to the pool/beach and apply a small amount of conditioner to the mid-length and ends of the hair. This will help reduce some of the harmful effects of the salt or chlorine.
2) rinse your hair thoroughly with regular tap water each time you come out of the sea/pool to rinse away the salt or chlorine and reapply a little conditioner as you would reapply sun tan oil.
3) wash your hair every evening using shampoo and conditioner.
4) if possible wear a swimming cap to protect
5) if you do not put your head under the water and you have long hair, pin it up so the ends do not get wet.
Sitting/Walking in the sun
The ultra violet and heat from the sun may also cause your hair to become extra dry, brittle and change color. I suggest you wear a hat or baseball cap to protect the hair from these potential problems. Also, people often forget that the scalp is exposed to the sun and becomes burned just as easily as unprotected skin elsewhere on your body. This burnt skin causes the scalp to flake, similar to having dandruff. For people with thinning hair this is a bigger problem as more scalp is exposed. If it is not possible to wear a hat while in the sun, apply a little sun tan oil carefully to the scalp with your fingertips. This will help prevent the scalp from burning. Also, remember to reapply the oil after swimming. If you do put oil on your scalp, thoroughly wash it out with shampoo each evening.
Diet
1) Make sure you drink plenty of water to help hydrate your skin (scalp).
2) Eat 6 small meals a day rather than three larger meals.
3) Take your regular supplements.
Dr. David Kingsley & Associates specialize in helping people with hair and scalp problems associated with the summer.