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Best Sun Protection For Grey Hair (2024 Update)

As we get older, our hair starts to turn grey. While some embrace this natural transition, others look for ways to cover up those pesky greys. If you fall in the latter camp, using hair dye is an obvious solution. But constantly colouring your hair can dry it out and cause damage over time. What’s the best way to conceal greys without compromising your hair health? The answer lies in using the right sun protection products.

When shopping for sun protection specially formulated for grey hair, there are a few key factors to consider. First, look for a formula that contains UV filters to shield your strands from the sun’s damaging rays. Second, choose a lightweight product that won’t weigh down fine grey hair. Silicones are great for adding shine and smoothness. Finally, look for a formula that adds moisture to condition and prevent dryness associated with colouring. Products with nourishing oils and proteins are ideal.

What questions should you be asking yourself before you make a purchase? Do you need heavy duty UV protection for full days out in the sun? Or are you looking for a light Leave-In spray to refresh your colour between salon visits? Will the product lead to buildup or leave behind unwanted residue? Does it contain any damaging sulfates or parabens? With so many sun protection products on the market, do your homework to find the best solution for your specific grey hair needs and concerns.

10 Best Sun Protection For Grey Hair

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is an ideal product for protecting hair from sun damage, including fading and drying out.
2
Ideal for people with blonde hair who want to protect and enhance their color while being exposed to the sun.
3
Herb Speedy PPD Free Hair Dye is ideal for people with sensitive scalp, as it is ammonia-free and protects against irritation.
4
Ideal for protecting and controlling frizz in colored hair.
5
This hair product is ideal for men and women with curly, frizzy, fine, or thin hair textures who want flexible hold and protection from the sun and humidity.
6
This product is ideal for individuals with sensitive scalp who want to color their hair without experiencing eye or scalp irritations.
7
It is ideal for protecting hair from sun damage.
8
This product is ideal for daily hair protection from the sun and contains organic ingredients that are vegan and gluten-free.
9
This product is ideal for protecting and strengthening all hair types and is vegan and cruelty-free.
10
The product is ideal for adding medium hold, eliminating frizz, detangling, and boosting hair shine while providing UV and heat protection.
It is an ideal product for protecting hair from sun damage, including fading and drying out.
Ideal for people with blonde hair who want to protect and enhance their color while being exposed to the sun.
Herb Speedy PPD Free Hair Dye is ideal for people with sensitive scalp, as it is ammonia-free and protects against irritation.
This hair product is ideal for men and women with curly, frizzy, fine, or thin hair textures who want flexible hold and protection from the sun and humidity.
This product is ideal for individuals with sensitive scalp who want to color their hair without experiencing eye or scalp irritations.
It is ideal for protecting hair from sun damage.
This product is ideal for daily hair protection from the sun and contains organic ingredients that are vegan and gluten-free.
This product is ideal for protecting and strengthening all hair types and is vegan and cruelty-free.
The product is ideal for adding medium hold, eliminating frizz, detangling, and boosting hair shine while providing UV and heat protection.

1. Aveda Sun Care Protecting Hair Veil, 3.4 Ounce

Introducing a remarkable product that every hair care enthusiast must have – a lightweight and water-resistant up defense mist! This product creates an invisible shield that protects hair from sun exposure for up to 16 hours, thus minimizing damage and dryness caused by harmful UV rays.

The up defense mist contains Ova/cub filters derived from wintergreen and cinnamon bark oils that provide excellent protection against sun damage. These filters work by forming a barrier that shields the hair from harmful UV rays, preventing it from absorbing the damaging effects of the sun.

Moreover, this incredible mist is enriched with an anti-oxidant blend that includes vitamin E, which helps fight free radical damage. Free radicals are harmful molecules that are produced due to environmental factors such as pollution and sun exposure, and they can cause significant damage to hair health. With the help of this mist, hair is protected from these harmful molecules, ensuring long-lasting health and vitality.

2. Sun Bum Blonde Formula

Looking for a hair lightener that gives you those perfect blonde highlights? Look no further than the Blonde Hair Lightener from this brand. Infused with Hawaiian Lehua Honey and Lemon, this spray works by amplifying the natural effects of the sun to create subtle tones and highlights. It's perfect for both natural and color-treated hair, and helps protect against frizz, humidity, UV oxidation, and dullness.

To use, simply spray throughout your hair just before some exposed sun time. The hair lightener is heat activated, so you can even use a hair dryer to boost the process and really get those highlighting effects. And with its natural ingredients, including Costa Rican Pineapple and Meyer Lemon, this hair lightener is both gluten and paraben-free, making it a safe choice for your locks.

Trust the brand that knows how to protect your hair from the intense days in the sun. Their products are made with only the best ingredients to keep your hair healthy and vibrant. Whether you have long or short hair, this Blonde Hair Lightener is the perfect addition to your hair care routine.

3. Sensitive Scalp Dark Brown Hair Protector

The Herb Speedy hair coloring cream is specially formulated to minimize any allergic reactions as it does not contain any allergy-reactive substances such as PPD, Diamine, and other harsh chemicals. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals with extremely sensitive scalps.

The product is made using natural herbal ingredients that are vegan-friendly and contain extracts of Licorice Root, Paeonia Albiflora Root, Sage, Matricaria, Rosemary, and Camellia Japonica Seed Oil. These ingredients provide rich nutrition to your hair and scalp while being free from ammonia and parabens.

The Herb Speedy hair coloring cream is a revolutionary product that offers a speedy coloring experience. Unlike conventional hair dyes that take up to 60 minutes to complete the coloring process, Herb Speedy offers satisfactory results in just 20 minutes, with 10 minutes each for the #1 and #2 cream.

Additionally, Herb Speedy has a patented sunscreen agent (Korea Patent No. 0665342) that protects your hair from sunlight damage and prevents color fading, making it an excellent choice for individuals who spend a lot of time in the sun.

The product is manufactured in South Korea by Dongsung Bio Pharm Co.,LTD, a reputable company that has been in the business since 1957.

4. Prorituals Colorfuel – Color Protection Spray And Frizz Control Treatment, Colored Hair Spray, 8 Oz

Introducing the Color Protection Treatment by this brand, a hair spray that is specially formulated with natural botanicals to help shield hair from harmful sun exposure and ensure long-lasting, vibrant color. This unique serum is perfect for those with frizzy, curly hair as it nourishes and tames unmanageable hair, leaving locks with a silky, smooth finish.

The Colorfuel hair serum is designed to remove and diminish frizz, instantly smoothing away those pesky flyaways. Not only does it help to keep frizz at bay, but it also prevents hair from reverting back to its unruly state. This hair serum is perfect for defending each strand from heat styling, leaving your hair looking smooth and polished.

Transform your unmanageable hair from wild, frizzy hair to perfectly polished, silky locks with this original serum. This serum is perfect for those who want manageable hair that they can rock with confidence and beauty.

This hair styling spray not only tames frizz, but it also restores your hair's shine. Whether you have curly or straight hair, this product works to transform your dry, damaged hair into a sleek, soft, lush mane that you'll be proud to show off.

With just a dime-sized amount of this original serum, you can combat frizz and keep those stubborn flyaways and pieces from ruining your style. Best of all, this product is made in the USA and is paraben-free, pH balanced, and cruelty-free.

5. Healium Hair Color Lock Hairspray – All Textures.

Take your hair care regimen up a notch with Healium Hair Products' hairspray with sunscreen. This innovative hair styling solution takes a scientific approach to hair care and beauty, delivering a range of benefits that will leave your hair looking and feeling amazing.

One of the standout features of this hairspray is the use of hydrolyzed silk, which enhances shine and gives your hair a silky finish, without drying out your strands. Whether you're dealing with frizz, flyaways, or unruly curls, this hairspray provides a flexible hold that will keep your hair looking great for hours.

For those living in areas with high humidity, this hairspray is a game-changer. The water-soluble formula is humidity-resistant and keeps your hair under control, even in extreme moisture. Despite its powerful hold, it rinses clean and won't leave any buildup on your hair.

This hairspray is perfect for those with fine, thin, wavy, curly, or silky straight hair. It's lightweight, non-sticky, easy to use, and delivers a medium to light hold that's suitable for both men and women. Plus, it's color-safe and paraben-free, making it an excellent choice for those with dyed or chemically treated hair.

Healium Hair Products is committed to cruelty-free hair care and produces its conditioning hairspray in the USA according to strict standards at facilities certified by PETA. With its unique combination of sun protection, shine enhancement, and humidity resistance, this hairspray is an essential addition to any hair care routine.

6. Herb Speedy Sun-Safe Hair Dye

Introducing the Herb Speedy Color Cream, the revolutionary hair dye that promises to provide a satisfying result in just 20 minutes. The product is specially formulated to minimize allergy reactions and is suitable for users with an extremely sensitive scalp. It does not contain any allergy reactants such as PPD, Diamine, and is made only from natural herbal ingredients, making it vegan-friendly.

The Herb Speedy Color Cream is enriched with herbal extracts, including Licorice Root, Paeonia Albiflora Root, Sage, Matricaria, Rosemary extracts, and Camellia Japonica Seed Oil. These natural ingredients provide rich nutrition to your hair and scalp, ensuring that your hair remains healthy and vibrant. The product is also free from Ammonia and Paraben, making it a safe and healthy option for your hair.

One of the key benefits of the Herb Speedy Color Cream is its revolutionary speedy color cream technology. Unlike conventional natural hair color dyes that require 40 to 60 minutes to complete the coloring, Herb Speedy Color Cream can deliver a satisfactory result in just 20 minutes. The product comes in two creams, and it only takes 10 minutes for each cream to work its magic.

The Herb Speedy Color Cream also offers protection from sunlight damage. The product has a patented (Korea Patent No. 0665342) sunscreen agent that prevents color fading, ensuring that your hair remains vibrant and healthy-looking even under the sun.

The Herb Speedy Color Cream is manufactured by Dongsung Bio Pharm Co.,LTD, a reputable manufacturer based in South Korea. The company has been in the business since 1957, ensuring that the product is of the highest quality.

7. Scalp & Hair Sun Protection Mist" By Coola

Introducing the Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Scalp Spray – a powerful solution for protecting your hair from UV-related damage and preventing hair fading. With a lightweight feel and no oily residue, this scalp spray is perfect for those who want to keep their hair healthy and strong without feeling weighed down.

This product contains monoi oil, a powerful ingredient that helps prevent hair fading and protects against UV-related damage. With 70%+ certified organic ingredients, this scalp spray is gentle on your hair and scalp, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin.

The natural ocean salted sage scent of this scalp spray is refreshing and invigorating, leaving your hair smelling great all day long. And with its commitment to environmental friendliness, this product is Hawaii Reef Compliant Act 104, vegan, gluten-free, and paraben-free.

8. Coconut Argan Hair Strengthening Oil

Introducing the Coconut Argan Oil, a lightweight hair treatment that is formulated with a blend of favorite oils, including Argan, Sweet Almond, and Sunflower Seed. This hair treatment is designed to protect your hair from environmental stresses while hydrating, restoring, and strengthening your locks.

Good vibes for your hair are promised with this Argan Oil treatment. It is the perfect solution to help protect, strengthen, and restore your locks. It adds manageability and a brilliant silky shine, making your hair look and feel healthy. On top of that, it has a delightful scent that will remind you of summer.

Using the Coconut Argan Oil is hassle-free. A little goes a long way, and all you need is 1-3 pumps in your hand. Work through your locks from mid to ends for best results. For an extra boost, apply more to dry ends, and avoid your roots. For optimal results, mix with an Anti-Frizz treatment.

Protecting your hair is a top priority, and that is why this hair treatment is enriched with natural ingredients such as vitamins and minerals. It is also vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free, and paraben-free. You can trust that this hair treatment is made with only the best ingredients that are gentle and nourishing for your locks.

When it comes to hair care products, you can trust the Bum Company. They are the ones who live on the beach and need products that work even on the most intense days in the sun. The Coconut Argan Oil is no exception. This hair treatment is specially formulated to protect your hair from environmental damage, making it the perfect addition to your hair care routine.

Whether you are surfing, swimming, or just enjoying a day at the beach, the Coconut Argan Oil is perfect for all hair types. It is a must-have hair treatment that will leave your locks looking and feeling healthy, shiny, and manageable. Add it to your hair care routine today and enjoy the benefits of this amazing hair treatment.

Best Sun Protection For Grey Hair FAQs

Are there any natural remedies or oils that provide sun protection for grey hair?

Yes, there are several natural remedies and oils that can provide sun protection for grey hair. One of the most effective natural sunscreens is coconut oil, which has a natural SPF of about 4-6. Simply apply a small amount of coconut oil to your hair before going out in the sun to protect your hair from damage.

Another effective natural remedy is a mixture of aloe vera and jojoba oil. Aloe vera soothes the scalp while jojoba oil moisturizes and protects the hair from UV damage. Mix equal parts aloe vera and jojoba oil and apply to your hair before going out in the sun.

Argan oil is also a great natural sun protector for grey hair. It contains antioxidants that protect hair from UV damage and also helps to moisturize dry hair. Apply a few drops of argan oil to your hair before going out in the sun.

Finally, if you want to add some natural sun protection to your gray hair, you can try adding a few drops of carrot seed oil to your regular hair care routine. Carrot seed oil contains natural antioxidants that protect hair from UV damage and also moisturizes and nourishes the hair.

Can grey hair be more susceptible to sun damage than other hair colors?

Yes, grey hair can be more susceptible to sun damage than other hair colors. This is because grey hair has less melanin, which is the pigment that protects the skin and hair from harmful UV rays. Melanin also gives hair its color, and as hair turns grey, it loses some of its melanin. This means that grey hair may not be able to protect itself as well from the sun's rays, which can lead to damage such as dryness, brittleness, and breakage.

It is important to take care of grey hair by protecting it from the sun. This can be done by wearing a hat or using a leave-in conditioner with SPF protection. Additionally, using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner can help keep grey hair healthy and hydrated. Regular trims can also help prevent split ends and breakage. Overall, taking good care of grey hair can help keep it looking and feeling healthy, despite its increased susceptibility to sun damage.

Can sun damage to grey hair cause premature greying or hair loss?

Sun damage to grey hair can lead to further damage to the hair cuticle and protein structure, resulting in brittle and weak hair that may lead to hair breakage and hair loss. However, sun damage does not cause premature greying of hair. Premature greying is usually caused by genetics, stress, or medical conditions.

The sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can also cause damage to the scalp, which can lead to hair loss. When the scalp is exposed to UV rays, it can become dry and flaky, which can lead to dandruff and hair loss. It is essential to protect your hair and scalp from the sun's harmful rays by wearing a hat or using a sunscreen designed for hair and scalp protection.

To maintain healthy hair and prevent damage, it is essential to use hair care products that contain UV protectants and antioxidants that help protect the hair from environmental damage. Additionally, eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can also help promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss.

How does hair color affect the effectiveness of sunscreen?

Hair color plays a role in how well sunscreen is absorbed and how effective it is in protecting the skin. People with darker hair generally have more melanin in their skin and hair, which offers some natural protection against UV rays. However, this does not mean they can skip using sunscreen altogether.

On the other hand, people with lighter hair, particularly red hair, have less melanin and are more susceptible to sunburns and skin damage. They need to be more diligent about using sunscreen and reapplying it frequently. Additionally, people with gray or white hair may be more prone to sun damage because they have less pigment to protect their skin.

Regardless of hair color, it is always important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and to reapply it every two hours or after sweating or swimming. The sunscreen should be applied to all exposed areas of the skin, including the scalp and hairline. Using a hat or seeking shade during peak sun hours can also provide extra protection.

How often should I reapply sunscreen to my grey hair?

Just like your skin, your hair and scalp also need protection from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Grey hair is more prone to damage from the sun due to its reduced melanin content. Hence, it is important to apply sunscreen to your hair and scalp to protect them from damage.

The frequency of reapplying sunscreen to your grey hair depends on various factors such as the intensity of the sun's rays, the duration of sun exposure, and the activities you are doing. It is recommended to reapply sunscreen to your hair and scalp every 2-3 hours if you are spending prolonged periods in direct sunlight.

If you are swimming or sweating excessively, you should reapply sunscreen immediately after toweling off. Also, make sure to choose a sunscreen that is specifically designed for your hair and scalp and provides broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays.

In conclusion, reapplying sunscreen to your grey hair and scalp is important to maintain their health and protect them from damage caused by the sun's rays.

Is it necessary to use a leave-in conditioner with SPF for grey hair?

While it is not necessary to use a leave-in conditioner with SPF for grey hair, it can definitely be beneficial. Grey hair is often more delicate and prone to damage from environmental factors such as the sun. Using a leave-in conditioner with SPF can help protect the hair from harmful UV rays and prevent further damage. Additionally, leave-in conditioners can help to nourish and hydrate the hair, which can be especially important for grey hair that may be drier and more brittle than other hair types. When choosing a leave-in conditioner with SPF for grey hair, look for products that contain ingredients such as keratin, biotin, or vitamin E, which can help to strengthen and protect the hair. Ultimately, the decision to use a leave-in conditioner with SPF will depend on your individual hair type and needs, but it certainly can be a helpful addition to your hair care routine.

Should I wear a hat in addition to using sunscreen for grey hair?

Yes, wearing a hat in addition to using sunscreen is a good idea for protecting grey hair. Grey hair is typically finer and more fragile than pigmented hair, and it can be more susceptible to damage from UV rays. Sun exposure can cause the hair to become dry, brittle, and discolored. While sunscreen can help protect the scalp and hair from UV rays, a hat can provide additional protection by shielding the hair from direct sunlight. Look for a hat that has a wide brim to provide maximum coverage. Additionally, wearing a hat can also protect the face and neck from sun damage, reducing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. As always, it is important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even when wearing a hat. By combining these two measures, you can help protect your hair and skin from the damaging effects of the sun.

What are the risks of not protecting grey hair from the sun?

Exposing grey hair to the sun without any protection can lead to several risks. Grey hair is often finer and more delicate than other hair types, making it more susceptible to damage. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause the hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Additionally, grey hair lacks melanin, which provides a natural UV barrier to the scalp. As a result, exposing the scalp to the sun without protection can increase the risk of skin cancer.

Furthermore, prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays can cause premature ageing of the hair, resulting in a dull and lacklustre appearance. It can also cause the hair to lose its natural colour, resulting in a yellowish or brassy hue.

To minimize these risks, it is essential to protect grey hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a protective hair product that contains SPF. Regularly conditioning the hair can also help to keep it hydrated and healthy. Overall, protecting grey hair from the sun is crucial for maintaining healthy and youthful-looking hair.

What ingredients should I look for in a sunscreen for grey hair?

When it comes to choosing a sunscreen for grey hair, there are a few key ingredients that you should look for. Firstly, you should look for a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, as this will provide adequate protection against the sun's harmful rays.

Secondly, you should look for a sunscreen that contains antioxidants such as vitamin C and E, which will help to protect your hair from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants also help to maintain the health and shine of your hair.

Lastly, you should look for a sunscreen that is specifically formulated for hair, as these products are designed to provide extra protection and moisturization to your hair. Look for ingredients such as panthenol, coconut oil, and shea butter, which will help to nourish and strengthen your hair while protecting it from the sun's damaging rays.

Overall, choosing a sunscreen for grey hair doesn't have to be difficult. By looking for a product with broad-spectrum protection, antioxidants, and hair-specific ingredients, you can keep your hair healthy and protected all summer long.

What is the best type of sunscreen for grey hair?

When it comes to protecting grey hair from the harmful effects of the sun, it is important to choose a sunscreen that offers both UVA and UVB protection. Look for a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these ingredients provide a physical barrier to the sun's rays and are less likely to cause irritation to the scalp. Additionally, consider a sunscreen that is specifically designed for use on the scalp, as these products are often formulated to be non-greasy and easy to apply. It is important to apply the sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Finally, don't forget to wear a hat or other protective headwear when spending extended periods of time in the sun. By taking these steps, you can help protect your grey hair from sun damage and keep it looking its best.

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