Greta Jimenez
Air pollution can cause hair loss and damage, so it is important to protect your hair from it. One way to do this is by covering your hair with a scarf or hat when you're outdoors. This will prevent your hair from coming into direct contact with dust and air pollutants. Additionally, using the right hair products, such as shampoos and conditioners, and hair serums with UV protection, can help to remove surface grime and protect your hair from the harmful effects of pollution. A balanced and healthy diet that includes vitamins and minerals can also strengthen your hair and make it less prone to damage from air pollution.
How to cover hair from pollution
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wear a hat or scarf | Minimises direct exposure to environmental elements |
| Use hair products with vitamins and minerals | Promote protection and restoration |
| Hair serum | Forms a thin covering layer over hair to safeguard from hazardous gases and pollutants |
| Hair mask | Seals cuticles and prevents dust and pollutants from damaging hair shaft |
| Scalp cleanser | Removes build-up of oil and pollutants |
| Hair spray | Protects hair from harmful effects of the sun and pollutants |
| Shampoo | Washes away grime without stripping natural oils |
| Sulphate-free shampoo | Gentler on hair |
| Mild fragrance-free shampoo | Gentler on hair |
| UV protection leave-in conditioners or serums | Shields hair from sun damage |
| Regular trims and deep conditioning treatments | Combat damage caused by pollution |
| Healthy diet | Strengthens hair and makes it less prone to damage from air pollution |
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What You'll Learn
Wear a hat or scarf
One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your hair from pollution is to wear a hat or scarf when outdoors. This creates a physical barrier between your hair and the air, shielding it from dust, pollutants, and other environmental elements.
The Journal of Investigative Dermatology has reported that pollution contains 'polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons', which trigger the production of damaging free radicals. These molecules can attack healthy skin tissue, causing premature ageing, including that of the scalp and hair follicles. By wearing a hat or scarf, you can minimize direct exposure to these harmful pollutants and reduce their impact on your hair and scalp health.
Scarves are a versatile option as they can be wrapped around the head in various styles, covering the entire head and hair. Hats, on the other hand, offer a more structured form of protection and are ideal for those who prefer a more secure and hands-free option. When choosing a hat, opt for one with a wider brim to provide more coverage for your hair and scalp.
For those with long hair, it is advisable to tie your hair up into a bun, ponytail, or braid before putting on a hat or scarf. This ensures that your hair is not left loose, exposing it to the elements. Additionally, be mindful of the fabric of your headwear. Opt for breathable and natural fabrics like cotton, which can provide comfort while also offering protection.
In highly polluted areas, the simple act of wearing a hat or scarf can make a significant difference in maintaining hair health and minimizing the negative impacts of pollution on your hair and scalp.
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Use a hair serum
Using a hair serum is an effective way to protect your hair from pollution. Hair serums work to repair hair damage caused by pollution, such as split ends, build-up, and frizz. When choosing a hair serum, opt for lightweight, non-greasy products with natural ingredients. Look for serums with proteins, botanical oils, and essential minerals, as these will help repair your hair by moisturising it from the inside out. Antioxidants are also an important ingredient to look out for, as they promote healthy circulation and new hair growth, helping to combat the effects of environmental factors such as pollution and dust.
It is important to note that leave-in products like serums need time to absorb properly. Allow the serum to dry and absorb into your hair for 15-20 minutes before stepping outside. This will ensure that your hair is not a sticky trap for pollution. If you are in a polluted environment, you may want to use a lightweight serum to tame and style your hair, as tacky products can attract more grime to the surface of your hair.
For heat protection, consider a serum with UV protection to shield your hair from sun damage. Serums with antibacterial properties, vitamins, and minerals can also promote both protection and restoration. For example, Gisou's Honey Infused Leave-In Conditioner is a multi-tasking product that can intensely hydrate and protect your hair from environmental toxins.
In addition to using a hair serum, it is recommended to incorporate other protective measures, such as wearing a hat or scarf when outdoors, to minimise direct exposure to pollutants.
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Protective hairstyles
Braids
Braids are an excellent protective hairstyle as they keep your hair secure and limit its exposure to the environment. Whether you opt for a single braid or multiple braids, ensure they are not too tight to avoid causing breakage.
Buns
Pulling your hair back into a loose bun is a simple yet effective way to protect your hair from pollution. Low buns are a great choice as they keep your hair away from your face and reduce the chances of pollutants accumulating in your hair.
Head wraps
Head wraps or scarves are a fashionable way to protect your hair from pollution. They act as a physical barrier, shielding your hair from environmental elements. With various fabrics, colours, and patterns available, you can find one that suits your style while keeping your hair safe.
Ponytails
Ponytails are a versatile protective hairstyle. Whether you go for a sleek high ponytail or a low, loose one, they can help keep your hair secure and minimise its contact with pollutants.
Updos
Elegant updos are a stylish way to protect your hair. From twists to intricate knot styles, there are numerous options to explore. Just remember to avoid tight hairstyles that can put excessive tension on your hair, leading to breakage.
In addition to these protective hairstyles, incorporating anti-pollution hair care products and regular cleansing can further help shield your hair from the damaging effects of pollution.
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Wash hair regularly
Washing your hair regularly is an effective way to prevent pollution damage. When you are outside, your hair is susceptible to all kinds of pollutants, from dust and smoke to gaseous pollutants. These pollutants can cause irritation and damage to your hair and scalp.
Washing your hair regularly helps to keep these pollutants at bay. It is recommended to wash your hair every third day if you have oily hair. This will help control excess oil without stripping your hair of its natural moisture. If you don't have oily hair, washing your hair twice a week should be sufficient.
When washing your hair, use a lightweight, natural shampoo. Avoid shampoos with complex chemicals, as pollution particles can sneak past them and lead to buildup. Use a silicon hairbrush to spread the shampoo evenly on your scalp. Massage the shampoo and conditioner into your hair while taking a bath.
In addition to regular washing, it is important to incorporate a deep cleaning routine once a week. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove stubborn pollutants and product buildup. This will boost scalp health and ensure that your hair is thoroughly cleansed.
By maintaining a regular washing routine and incorporating deep cleaning, you can effectively protect your hair from the damaging effects of pollution.
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Use a moisturising hair mask
Using a moisturising hair mask is an effective way to combat the negative effects of pollution on your hair. Hair masks seal the hair cuticles, preventing dust and pollutants from damaging the hair shaft. They also smoothen and seal the cuticles, making your hair look shinier and healthier.
Hair masks are a great addition to your hair-care routine and can be used as often as once or twice a week. They are easy to use and require little effort, but offer the benefits of a highly concentrated formula. You can either buy a hair mask or make your own at home using nourishing, moisturising ingredients such as biotin, castor oil, collagen, honey, peptides, and shea butter.
If you are experiencing thinning hair, try a lightweight hair mask such as Virtue's Flourish Thickening + Hydrating Mask, which contains alpha keratin protein to promote hair strength and prevent breakage. For a fragrance-free option that works for all hair types, consider the Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Deep-Conditioning Treatment. This mask leaves hair feeling resilient and soft and can be left on for 20 minutes or even overnight.
For an intensive treatment, you can leave a hair mask on overnight or for an extended period of time. This allows the nutrients to seep in and repair any damage caused by pollution. Gisou’s Honey Infused Hair Mask, for example, improves hair elasticity and adds shine and lustre.
To further enhance the effects of a hair mask, consider wearing your hair in a bun, ponytail, or braid while the mask soaks in. This will shield the inner part of your hair from exposure to the air and create a barrier to protect your scalp.
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Frequently asked questions
You can cover your hair with a scarf or a hat when you're outdoors. Tying your hair up in buns, ponytails, or braids can also help to shield it from exposure to air.
When it comes to hair products, opt for those with antibacterial properties, vitamins, and minerals that promote protection and restoration. Sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners are also gentler on the hair. You can also use a hair serum or hair spray to protect your hair from pollution.
You should wash your hair regularly to keep pollutants away and prevent itchiness and dandruff. However, be sure to use a mild shampoo to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils.
Yes, maintaining a balanced and healthy diet can strengthen your hair and make it less prone to damage from pollution. You should also avoid using mechanical tools like straighteners or hair dryers, as these can increase the chances of damage to your hair.
