Summer is almost upon us, which means wig wearers everywhere will have a few more things to think about in their quest for the perfect coverage.

Summer presents a number of challenges for those experiencing hair loss or thinning. Whether you regularly go wig-free or have a favourite wig that you rely on daily, knowing how to stay cool, fresh and fabulous is important as the weather gets warmer.

Contrary to popular belief, you should also take precautions to protect your hair and scalp from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, here’s why…

Do I really need to protect my scalp from the sun?

In short, yes. Like any skin on your face and body, your scalp needs to be adequately safeguarded from the sun, especially when those temperatures climb. Holland and Barrett explain why it’s important to take extra care to protect your scalp from the sun:

“A 2008 study of over 50,000 people with melanoma found that people with scalp or neck melanomas die at nearly twice the rate of people with melanoma elsewhere on the body. Experts believe that this is because the melanoma is often spotted later, so the cancer has had longer to develop, or because the conditions on the scalp allow the melanoma to spread because it’s rich in blood vessels and lymphatics.”

By protecting your scalp from sunburn and other damage, you’ll not only lower your risk of various long-term ailments that have been linked to prolonged sun exposure. You will also prevent the onset of short-term symptoms that can leave you feeling extra uncomfortable during summer, including redness, soreness, hot skin, and flaking.

Can my wig become sun damaged too?

Even when wearing a wig, taking measures to protect yourself from the sun makes perfect sense. Whilst wearing a wig offers a protective style for your scalp and a great way to care for the natural hair beneath, wig fibres can become damaged due to sun exposure. That’s why we always recommend storing it in a cool, dry place away from direct light as a rule of thumb.

Prolonged or excessive sun exposure will leave your wig looking and feeling dry and brittle. It can also cause the colour of your wig to fade as well as affect your desired style and shape.

How can I protect my wig and scalp from the sun?

Remember, even if you wear a wig every day as a protective style, this is not enough to shield your scalp from the sun’s harmful rays. The sun can actually penetrate through the wig, especially if it’s a monofilament construction. This means you must take precautions to protect your scalp from the sun, whether you’re wearing a wig or going without.

The simplest way to do just that is by using one of the many tried and tested scalp sunscreens to safeguard against sunburn in this delicate area. 

Be sure to apply your chosen sunscreen correctly and frequently throughout the day, paying particular attention to the areas where you are thinning or balding. You should consider adding sunscreen to your daily routine, whatever the weather outside, for year-round protection.

Using our UV Shine Spray on your wig will add the extra layer of protection you need to safeguard against summer hair damage as well as restore lustre and shine. Choosing an updo – like a ponytail or bun – will make sure your wig covers as much of your scalp as it can to provide additional protection too.

It’s a great idea to wear a hat or headscarf when heading outdoors so find a style that suits and enjoy a summer accessory that’s both practical and fashionable.