Expert advice on preventing summer hair damage and color changes

Experts highlight several factors that contribute to hair damage and unwanted color changes, such as orange or brassy tones, during the summer months. The primary causes include UV rays, salt water, chlorine, and tap water minerals.

According to hair stylist David Lorente, UV rays oxidize both natural and cosmetic pigments, specifically degrading cool and ash tones and allowing warm pigments like red and orange to resurface. Colorist Viktoria Petrova notes that tap water is often an underrated factor, as minerals like copper and iron can deposit on the hair fiber, causing dullness and orange hues. Additionally, while sea salt does not change color directly, it increases hair porosity and dehydration, making the fiber more susceptible to oxidation.

To mitigate these effects, experts recommend several preventative measures. These include using products with specific UV filters to create a protective barrier, rinsing hair with fresh water immediately after swimming to remove salt or chlorine, and wearing hats or tying hair up during peak sun hours to reduce exposure.