When we think of sunscreen, we’re instantly taken back to family holidays when mother would be slathering a thick, gloopy substance all over our face, body and legs reluctantly. Times have changed: we know just how important it is to wear SPF on the daily. And that it doesn’t matter how much moisturiser, cleanser, or serum we layer on, if we don’t include sunscreen, we’re leaving our skin exposed to those harmful UV rays. But did you know your hair also needs its own protection, too?

Recent studies tell us that UV rays can damage hair just like the skin — #DUH — potentially even damaging the hair follicles. “UV rays burn both the inside and outside layer of the hair follicle, resulting in brittle and lifeless ends. And just like unprotected skin, hair can get sunburnt,” explains Zoe Irwin, a hairstylist and ghd’s Global Ambassador. Too much time in the sun – unprotected, that is – can lead to damage of both the structure and colour of your hair. And let’s not forget the scalp. Skin is skin, even when it’s on your head.

7 protective products to prepare your locks for the sun

Sachajuan Hair In The Sun

A beach bag-essential, this lightweight serum nourishes, softens, and protects hair from UV rays — even after you take a dip in the water.

Sachajuan Hair In The Sun

Same same, but different. Like Hair In The Sun, Sachajuan’s Hair After The Sun mask nourishes and softens, while also giving you that post-sun moisture kick.

Dr. Barbara Sturm Scalp Serum

This sumptuous serum from Dr. Sturm features sunflower sprouts and tara extract, which protect the hair and scalp from heat, dirt particles and UV radiation. Sounds perfect, no?

Rahua Hydration Detangler & UV Barrier

Morete oil, a botanical oil extracted from a plant called the moriche palm, works as a natural source of UV protection in this Rahua concoction. And it smells like delicious tropical candy, too.

Masami Mekabu Hydrating Haircare Travel Kit

This four-piece, travel-sized haircare kit uses the power of Japanese marine botanicals to restore hair's healthy hydration — perfect for pre-and post-sun exposure. It includes a shampoo, conditioner, shine serum and styling cream for a complete system to keep hair soft, shiny and protected. #OBVS

Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

This pretty potion is infused with the brand's proprietary complex, along with argan oil to give your strands some shine and conditioning, along with a host of other extracts, all in there to moisturise your hair, protect from UV damage, and strengthen your precious crown. Need we say more…

Davines The Renaissance Circle Hair Mask

Overdid it in the sun? Davines to the rescue: this repairing hair mask gives new life to hair damaged from heat styling, sun, chlorine, or frequent colouring.