We are in the thick of July, the sun is blazing, and we need to talk about the best ways to protect your hair and skin in summer! Vitamin D is always great, but too much sun can lead to skin damage, vision problems, and even forms of cancer. Let’s see how we can minimize the risks and keep you, your hair and skin safe this summer.
Let’s Start With Sunscreen
Even on a cloudy day, a good layer of sport sunscreen is a great way to protect yourself. Ironically, I am allergic to most commercial sunscreens, so I look for mineral products to help reduce the chance of reaction. My personal favorite is the Coppertone Pure & Simple line (I can only use the lotion version, but they do make sprays) in SPF 50. It is mineral based, and is free of Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, PABA, Parabens, dyes and fragrance. Another bonus is that it is water-resistant, which means sweat doesn’t wash it away. I also like to use a face stick for something a little lighter (currently loving this one from E.L.F.).
Your Lips Need Love Too!
A lip balm with SPF is another great resource. After all, lips need protection, too! There are tons of options in protective lip balms, so pick one that feels right. Choose one that’s super basic like an Aquaphor or select a sunscreen-made product like Sun Bum or Banana Boat. You can event find product with a colored tint or even a flavor, if that’s what you prefer.
Let’s Talk Eye Protection
We don’t want our eyes getting too much sun, so stock up on great sunnies to keep them safe from the sun’s rays. My favorites are from Goodr: they are lightweight, don’t bounce, and don’t usually get fogged up. I love that you can get polarized lenses, and that they have so many colors and styles. I don’t leave home without them.
Cover Up Your Hair
Sun can be damaging for hair as well as your skin. You can mitigate some of that damage with a good, lightweight running hat. Not only will it protect your flowing locks and any hair color you might have applied, but it will also keep your scalp safe from the sun! I love the Coaster style from Alter Ego Running.
Our Final, “Hair-y” Tip
Before you head out, apply some leave-in conditioner to your hair. It doesn’t have to be a fancy brand, because you’ll go through it quickly. This will keep your hair hydrated, and as a bonus, also keeps it from tangling in the heat and humidity. You know how frustrating that can be!
How do you protect your skin and hair in the summer?
Join us next week —> Do you prefer racecations or running locally?
Link Up With Tuesday Topics
This year, I am joining up with Zenaida, of The Running Teacher for Tuesday Topics! Please join us every week for a new topic!
Love this summer rundown, Jenn! I’ve used conditioner before rainy runs to help with frizz, but I’d never thought of using it before sunny runs – genius!
Between the heat, sweat, and humidity, hair can get really stressed.
Also totally with you on mineral sunscreen, it’s the only kind my skin can handle. Thanks for the great tips!
I’m glad I’m not alone on the mineral. It definitely takes some scrubbing to get off, but it’s far better than a gross rash.
The pre-run conditioner can be a little annoying, but after getting a nasty mat in my hair one summer, that took two hours in the shower and a full bottle of conditioner to get out, I”m a lot more careful.
All great tips. Yes on lip gloss, sun screen and a cap!!
I don’t leave conditioner on… and I only wash my hair once a week (since it is VERY dry)
I wish I could do that but I sweat so much… I can maybe go two days in winter, but other than that, I wash it once or even twice a day.
You are right about the sunglasses and lip balm. I don’t use them not should.