Summer is a season we all love: sea, sun, freedom. But for our hair, it can become a real nightmare. UV rays, salt water, chlorine and dry wind put the hair fiber and scalp under stress, leaving dry, brittle hair with no shine.
As hairdressers for four generations (since 1914!), we’ve seen thousands of damaged heads of hair at the end of summer… but we’ve also found the most effective solutions. In this article we explain the real summer routine to protect and restore hair, with products tested in our salon and no harmful ingredients.
🔥 Why does the sun damage hair?
The sun emits UV rays that break down keratin, the protein that makes up the hair. The result?
- Hair dry and dull
- Color that fades quickly (especially if colored)
- Dehydrated or irritated scalp
- Frizz and split ends galore
And if you add sea salt and chlorine, the situation gets worse.
🧴 The perfect summer routine (in 4 steps)
✅ 1. Hair sun protection
Just as you put sunscreen on your skin, hair needs UV protection too.
🔹 What to use: protective sprays with natural UV filters.
🔹 When: before sun exposure, even in the city.
🔹 Recommended by our salon:
☀️ Davines SU Hair Milk – lightweight, fragrant, non-greasy and it really protects.
✅ 2. Gentle after-sun shampoo
After a day at the beach or pool, it’s essential to remove salt, chlorine and sweat without stressing the fiber.
🔹 What to avoid: shampoos with harsh sulfates.
🔹 Recommended:
🧡 Alfaparf Sunshine Shampoo – hydrates and gently rebalances the scalp.
✅ 3. Deep repairing mask (1–2 times a week)
Hydration is everything. You need a treatment that regenerates the hair fiber deeply.
🔹 Recommended by our team:
💧 L'Oreal Professionnel Absolut Repair Mask – ideal for dry or chemically treated hair.
Makes hair soft, full-bodied and shiny from the first use.
✅ 4. Moisturizing anti-frizz leave-in
After shampooing, especially in summer, avoid heat styling. A lightweight leave-in that nourishes, protects and helps tame frizz is a better choice.
🔹 Highly recommended:
🌿 PAAV White Fluid Termoprotettore – protects from heat sources and improves the hold of natural styling.
🧠 Our salon tips
- Don’t wash hair every day: alternate with fresh water rinses and leave-in sprays.
- Get a light trim before summer to remove split ends and strengthen the hair structure.
- Stay hydrated and eat well: healthy hair starts from within.
🎁 Bonus: our ready-to-use summer routine
We created an exclusive bundle tested in-salon, perfect for summer:
🔹 Gentle nourishing shampoo
🔹 Nourishing mask
🔹 UV protective oil
✅ 24/48h shipping
✅ Cash on delivery (Italy only)
✅ Returns within 90 days
✅ Installments with Klarna (0% APR)
👉 [Discover the Summer Protection Bundle]
🌍 Our mission is to protect your hair (even in summer)
In our salon we test every product on real people, with real hair and real needs. Our selection is born from 110 years of family experience and a love for healthy, authentic, strong hair.
❓ FAQ – Hair damaged by the sun: frequently asked questions
1. How can I tell if my hair is damaged by the sun?
The most common signs are dry, lackluster hair that breaks easily and tends to frizz. Color may look faded, especially if dyed or bleached. An irritated or tight-feeling scalp is also a warning sign.
2. What happens if I don’t protect my hair from the sun?
Without protection, UV rays degrade keratin and dry out the hair fiber. Over time, hair becomes fragile, dull and full of split ends. Color (natural or artificial) tends to lose intensity.
3. Do hair sunscreens really exist? Do they work?
Yes! Hair sunscreens are sprays or lightweight creams with UV filters designed for the hair fiber. If used regularly before exposure, they really do work and help prevent structural damage.
4. Can I use the same shampoo year-round in summer?
It’s better to avoid that. In summer you need shampoos that are gentle but effective, formulated to remove salt, chlorine and impurities without further stressing hair already affected by the sun.
5. How often should I use a mask during summer?
We recommend 1–2 times a week, depending on the level of dryness. Choose a mask rich in moisturizing and regenerating actives, such as those based on plant oils and proteins.
6. Can I dry my hair in the sun or is a hairdryer better?
It’s best to blot with a microfiber towel and air-dry, but never directly under the sun. If you use a hairdryer, apply a heat protectant first.
7. Is it true that salt and chlorine are bad for hair?
Yes. Salt dehydrates hair and makes it feel rough, while chlorine alters color and damages structure. It’s essential to wash hair immediately after swimming with a specific after-sun shampoo.
8. Is your summer routine suitable for all hair types?
Yes! We have tested every product in our salon on straight, curly, colored, fine and thick hair. The routine is adjustable and suitable even for sensitive scalps.