We all understand just how important it is to protect our skin from harmful UV rays. That’s a no-brainer because many skincare products are made with SPF in them. But, is sunscreen a necessary ingredient for our hair care products too? YES. Men’s hair gel with sunscreen is a good weapon to have in your arsenal.
My friend Josh told me that his barber had noticed some sun damage on his hair after a recent trip and advised him to get a product with sunscreen in it.
Because he had dyed his hair before he left, there were noticeable spots where it was discolored and his scalp was extra sensitive.
This is how the barber knew he had suffered sun damage on his hair and scalp.
UV rays from the sun can be really harsh on our hair, causing it to become dry, and frizzy, and even making the color fade over time.
Our scalps can get sunburned too!
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The Importance Of Using Hair Products With Sunscreen
It is important for men to use hair care products that have this essential ingredient in them.
Harmful UV rays cause as much damage to the hair as they do to the skin.
If you know you’re going to spend a lot of time in the sun, it is advisable to get a hair product that protects your hair.
Products that contain sunscreen protect your hair by acting as a shield against those harmful rays.
When you use these products, the UV rays cannot penetrate and therefore cannot damage your hair.
Hair products with sunscreen also help to restore damaged hair to its former state.
These products almost always contain other ingredients like essential oils that keep your hair moisturized with a glossy look.
When your hair is well moisturized, it doesn’t dry out easily.
The sunscreen then blocks out the sun and no moisture is lost from it.
Moreover, your scalp also gets protected from harmful UV rays as well.
If you don’t protect the scalp, the sun can burn it resulting in sunburns and even more damage to the roots of your hair.
Best Men’s Hair Gel With Sunscreen
The following are two of the most popular men’s hair gel with sunscreen that a lot of users swear by.
They also help a lot when you are styling your hair for the day.
American Crew Medium Hold Spray Gel
This is the product Josh bought and got me on the quest to find out more about men’s hair care products – especially those with sunscreen.
This is a hair gel that comes in a spray bottle.
It contains sunscreen that protects the hair from harmful UV rays.
You should apply it, especially if you spend long hours under direct sunlight.
This product is alcohol-free.
Alcohol is known to damage hair by drying it out.
This results in brittle hair, an itchy scalp, and even flaking.
This gel can be used in place of water to wet your hair before you venture out to the swimming pool or the ocean.
It’s also a great product to use when styling your hair.
It has a medium hold meaning you can still change up your hairstyle at any time of the day.
You can use this product to moisturize your hair.
For best results, spray a generous amount of the gel on your hair depending on the length, and ensure that every strand is well-coated.
The gel doesn’t flake and is easy to wash off at the end of the day.
Aveda Pure Formance Firm Hold Gel for Men
This gel contains UVA protectors whose function is to protect the hair from dryness brought on by direct exposure to sunshine.
It offers a long-lasting hold while leaving your hair with a shine that lasts for the better part of the day.
It can be used for the slicked-back hairstyle that looks quite neat on the guys.
This gel is a lightweight product that’s easy to distribute on the hair.
For best results, get a small amount of the gel on your palms and apply it evenly through your hair.
It’s best to let it dry naturally.
The gel is easy to wash off and doesn’t leave any greasy residue.
It contains organic products like lavender, spearmint, castor oil, honey, and sunflower seed oil.
Other Hair Products With Sunscreen
Apart from gels, there are other hair products that are great at protecting hair against sun damage.
They include:
Paul Mitchell Soft Style The Cream (Leave-In Conditioner & Styling Cream)
Moisturize, style, and protect your hair from the sun with just one product!
This leave-in cream by Paul Mitchell does all three in one go.
It coats your hair, protecting it from the sun’s harmful UV rays to minimize hair damage while you’re out and about.
The product is infused with panthenol and awapuhi extracts from Hawaii to moisturize your hair effectively.
This formula is lightweight and never leaves behind a greasy or sticky residue.
Pros
- Panthenol and awapuhi extracts provide light moisture
- Shields your hair from harmful UV rays
- Lightweight with no greasy residue
- Provides body and hold for all hair types
Cons:
- Quite runny in consistency, so you may accidentally use too much of it without realizing
Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil
Minimize damage and dryness from the hot sun’s UV rays with this easy spray-on protectant by Aveda.
With just a couple of quick and effortless spritzes, it defends your hair against sun exposure that can be detrimental to your locks.
The formula is lightweight and invisible, so it never leaves a greasy film or white cast on your locks.
It also doesn’t weigh down your hair, so you can enjoy your volume and hair body for a while.
This product also contains nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and sunflower seed oil, which hydrate your hair for extra shine and softness.
Pros
- Defends your hair against UV rays
- Lightweight and invisible, so it doesn’t weigh hair down
- Water-resistant and won’t wash away easily
- Coconut and sunflower seed oils hydrate the hair
- Comes in a spray bottle for effortless application
Cons
- It’s not color-safe
Coola Organic Scalp Spray & Hair Sunscreen Mist
Your hair isn’t the only area you need to protect when going under the sun – you need to show your scalp some love too.
This organic sunscreen mist by COOLA provides SPF 30 to shield your scalp and strands from UV damage.
It’s full of color-protecting ingredients to keep your vibrant hair color from fading because of sun exposure – perfect for keeping your rich color intact.
This mist leaves your hair smelling like the ocean breeze with notes of relaxing sage.
Pros
- Provides SPF 30 to protect your hair and scalp
- Has color-protecting ingredients to prevent premature fading
- Over 70% of the formula is made with organic ingredients
- Has a relaxing ocean salt and sage scent
Cons
- Can make the scalp oily if too much is applied
Joe Grooming Hair Spray
This hairspray by Joe Grooming contains natural UV protection that shields your locks from the sun.
It also has a flexible hold to make sure your hairstyle stays in place all day long.
It’s infused with aloe leaf juice to hydrate and quench your hair’s thirst, adding shine and luster while it’s at it.
There’s also vitamin B5 and soy and wheat proteins to strengthen your hair.
Pros
- Has natural UV filters to protect your hair from the sun
- Enriched with proteins and vitamin B5 to strengthen your hair
- Aloe leaf juice hydrates your hair while adding shine
- Gives your hair enough hold to keep your hairstyle in place
Cons
- Alcohol is the first ingredient in this product, which can be drying
Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer
This Bumble and Bumble primer protects your hair in two ways – when you heat-style and when you go outdoors into the sun.
It has UV and heat protection to shield your hair from both forms of damage.
The formula is also amazing at detangling the hair and taming unruly frizz.
It’s infused with nourishing oils, such as coconut oil, sweet almond oil, grape seed oil, and argan oil.
It’s also rich in wheat and vegetable proteins to strengthen the hair, preventing breakage and split ends.
Pros
- Has UV and heat protection for heat-styling and going outdoors
- Detangles the hair and eliminates frizz
- Nourishing oils moisturize your locks
- Wheat and vegetable proteins strengthen your hair to prevent breakage
Cons
- The oils can be heavy on your hair if you use too much
Moroccanoil Protect & Prevent Spray
Extend the lifespan of your color-treated hair while restoring shine and silky softness with this heat protectant spray by Moroccanoil.
It’s formulated with sunscreen to absorb UV rays that can otherwise damage your hair and fade color fast.
This spray is designed with the brand’s unique ArganID technology, which deposits argan oil into your hair, adding softness and shine.
It’s also infused with hair-loving antioxidants that can fight against free radical damage in the environment.
Pros
- Formulated with sunscreens to absorb harmful UV rays
- Uses ArganID technology to deposit argan oil into the hair
- Leaves your hair soft and shiny
- Has antioxidants to combat free radical damage
- Protects colored hair from brassiness and fading
Cons
- Can leave the hair quite dry
The One Atelier Fekkai The Pure Mist
This vegan, one-and-done leave-in treatment does it all.
It moisturizes your hair deeply, eliminates tangles and frizz, and provides the protection you need to minimize damage from the sun and your hot tools.
It’s infused with nourishing ingredients, such as coconut oil, shea butter, argan oil, rice extracts, jojoba oil, and more.
These work to give your hair a smooth and silky texture.
They also help detangle stubborn knots and frizzy flyaways, keeping your hair looking sleek all day.
Pros
- Provides heat and solar protection to minimize sun damage
- Moisturizes the hair with coconut oil, shea butter, and more
- Detangles knotty hair while taming frizz and flyaways
- Vegan and made with natural ingredients
- Doesn’t contain harmful ingredients like sulfates, silicones, and parabens
Signs Of Sun-Damaged Hair
There are several signs that will make you know if your hair (and scalp) has suffered from sun damage.
These are some of the signs that Josh’s barber noticed on his sun-damaged hair:
Discoloration
Long-term exposure to the sun results in discoloration, especially if you have dyed your hair.
This is what happened to Josh.
He had patches on his head where the dye was discolored as a result of sun damage.
The rays of the sun acted like bleach and removed the color from his hair.
Dryness
Without a proper hair care routine, your hair is bound to dry up when you spend time in direct sunlight.
This is because all moisture evaporates from it, leaving it dry and very brittle.
When you get back home from a long day at the beach, check to see how your hair looks.
Chances are it’s very dry and brittle if you didn’t take the necessary precautions to protect it.
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Split Ends
Dryness caused by moisture being removed from your hair means you’re left with very fragile strands and cuticles.
These dehydrated strands and cuticles are prone to cracking.
This leads to plenty of split ends.
Recommended Post: Best Shampoo For Dry, Damaged Hair With Split Ends
Frizz
Sun damage can cause your hair to dry up and look all frizzy.
The split ends that come as a result of sun damage do not help matters.
They can make your hair look more frizzy.
Itchy scalp
Due to a lot of the moisture being removed from the hair after exposure to the sun, you not only end up with dry hair but with a dry scalp as well.
A dry scalp can be very itchy and uncomfortable.
The more you scratch your scalp, the more damage you cause to the skin.
Excessive scratching can even result in redness and painful wounds.
Increased Scalp Sensitivity
The scalp is already a sensitive part of our bodies; so increased sensitivity can be very uncomfortable.
When you get severe sunburns on your scalp, it can lead to the skin on your head becoming more sensitive.
It can even get to a point where washing your hair can be an unpleasant experience.
The sensitivity can also be felt when you try to hold your hair in a ponytail if you have long hair.
Factors to Consider When Buying UV Protection Products
With many options available, it’s crucial to consider various factors before buying hair products with UV protection.
Hair Type
What is the natural texture of your hair? Is it straight, wavy, curly, or coily?
Each hair type has specific requirements, and selecting the appropriate UV protection product will enhance the natural qualities of your hair.
Moreover, take into account the thickness of your hair.
If you have thin and fine hair, it’s best to opt for a lightweight product to prevent any residue buildup.
Sun Protection Factor
Similar to sunscreen for your skin, UV protection hair products come with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) value.
The SPF number denotes the degree of defense it provides against damaging UV rays.
Opting for higher SPF values ensures enhanced protection, particularly on sunny days.
Broad Spectrum Protection
Search for a product that offers broad-spectrum protection.
This implies that it shields your hair from both UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays can reach deep into the hair shaft, leading to premature aging, while UVB rays primarily cause surface-level sunburn on the hair.
Water And Sweat Resistance
For those with an active lifestyle or who love spending time in the water, it’s advisable to consider a water-resistant UV protection product.
This will guarantee the product remains effective and stays in place, even during activities that involve sweating or swimming.
Non-Greasy Formula
To avoid greasy hair, choose a UV protection product with a non-greasy formula.
Steer clear of products that leave behind a heavy, oily residue, as it can hinder styling and attract dirt and pollutants to your hair.
Sensitivities
For individuals with sensitive skin or a history of allergies, it is essential to carefully examine the ingredients of the product for any potential allergens or irritants.
Opt for a hypoallergenic product that is free from harsh chemicals to ensure it suits your skin and hair needs.
Dyed Hair
If you have color-treated hair, make sure the UV protection product you select is specifically designed for use with dyed hair.
Seek out products that explicitly mention color protection to help maintain the vibrancy and longevity of your hair color.
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Overall Hair Health
Take into account the lasting advantages of using a hair product that includes UV protection.
In addition to safeguarding against the sun, seek out supplementary nourishing ingredients that support hair health and act as a barrier against damage from external elements.
Layering Hair Gel With Other Products
It’s possible to layer hair gel with other hair care products in a bid to achieve the perfect hairstyle while keeping your hair healthy and protected.
When you put different hair products in your hair, make sure each one does a different job.
Don’t mix products that do the same thing.
For example, if you use products to make your hairstyle stay in place, using too many of them can make your hair feel stiff and inflexible.
Let’s look at some different ways you can combine hair gel with other products:
Hair Gel And Leave-In Conditioner
Enhance your hair care routine by incorporating a leave-in conditioner before applying hair gel, as it offers a wonderful way to pamper and nourish your hair.
The leave-in conditioner leaves your hair feeling softer, smoother, and more manageable.
Its added hydration effectively combats frizz and prevents your hair from appearing dry or brittle, especially in harsh weather conditions.
Once your hair is adequately moisturized and primed with the leave-in conditioner, it’s time to introduce the hair gel.
The hair gel plays a crucial role in providing hold and structure to your hairstyle.
By coating your hair strands, it locks them in place, ensuring your desired hairstyle stays intact for an extended period.
This combination of leave-in conditioner and hair gel forms a dynamic partnership.
The nourishing properties of the conditioner create a protective barrier around your hair, shielding it from external aggressors such as pollution, UV rays, and heat styling tools.
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Hair Gel And Anti-Frizz Serum
When you combine hair gel with an anti-frizz serum, you create a powerful duo to combat frizz and achieve a sleek, polished look for your hair.
The anti-frizz serum contains special ingredients that effectively smooth down the hair cuticles, preventing them from fraying and causing those unwanted flyaways.
Once applied to your hair, the serum forms a protective shield, sealing in moisture and shielding against external factors like humidity and dryness that contribute to frizz.
With the foundation laid by the anti-frizz serum, it’s time to bring in the hair gel.
As you apply the hair gel, it complements the action of the anti-frizz serum, creating a barrier that locks in the moisture and smoothness provided by the serum.
This dual-action approach ensures your hair stays sleek and polished throughout the day, even in challenging weather conditions.
Hair Gel And Curl Cream
When you combine hair gel with curl cream, you achieve a perfect balance of definition and hold, resulting in stunning, bouncy curls that last all day.
Curl cream is specially designed to nourish and enhance natural curls, shaping and separating individual curls for a more distinct and bouncy appearance.
For optimal results, apply the curl cream to damp hair, as it encourages your curls to form beautifully.
Hair gel excels at providing hold and structure to your hairstyle, and when used alongside the curl cream, it elevates your curls to the next level.
The gel effectively locks in the definition created by the curl cream, ensuring your curls stay in place throughout the day.
As you apply the hair gel, it forms a protective layer around each curl, preserving its shape and preventing frizz.
Beyond the aesthetic benefits, this dynamic duo also promotes the health of your curly hair.
The moisturizing properties of the curl cream keep your curls hydrated, preventing dryness, which is a common concern.
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Hair Gel And Dry Shampoo
When you can’t wash your hair, applying dry shampoo before hair gel is a good solution.
The dry shampoo effectively tackles excess oil, giving your hair a cleaner and more refreshed appearance.
By eliminating oil build-up, the dry shampoo provides a better base for the hair gel to work on.
As you apply the hair gel, it adds a polished finish to your hair, ensuring your chosen hairstyle stays intact throughout the day.
This combination of hair gel and dry shampoo not only refreshes your hair but also imparts more volume and texture.
The dry shampoo lifts the roots and adds body, while the hair gel provides the necessary hold to maintain that volume and texture.
Related Post: How Often Should You Use Dry Shampoo?
This dynamic duo is especially beneficial for individuals with oily hair, as it helps manage excess oil without drying out the hair.
Hair Gel And Texturizing Spray
Texturizing spray is formulated to enhance the natural texture of your hair, making it easier to style and achieve that desired undone and carefree appearance.
When paired with hair gel, the texturizing spray’s grip and definition are amplified, ensuring your textured look remains intact throughout the day.
No matter your hair length, whether short or long, this duo adapts to your hair type, giving you the flexibility to style your hair as you wish.
Moreover, the combination of texturizing spray and hair gel is especially beneficial for those with fine or thin hair.
The texturizing spray adds volume and thickness, while the hair gel provides the necessary hold to maintain the lifted and textured look, creating a fantastic effect for your hair.
Conclusion
There are different products available for men that are essential for hair protection against sun damage.
My friend Josh is living proof that these products work because his hair has never looked better.
Apart from gels, there are many other products that do an equally wonderful job.
It’s better to start using a product with UV protection before the damage occurs than to find ways of reversing the damage.
Get a hair product with sunscreen and/or a good hat when you know you’ll be spending most of the day in direct sunlight.