How to restore your scalp health after a summer of sun and swimming

Beauty editor·NZ Herald·

8 Feb, 2025 07:00 PM4 mins to read

Beach hair may be enviable but all that sun and salt water may have done some damage to your scalp this summer. Photo / Getty Images.

If you’ve spent the summer making the most of the great outdoors, it might be time to give your hair and scalp a little bit of love.

There’s nothing quite like beach hair. The gritty texture, effortless waves, and that sun-kissed tousle is a look many of us try to replicate long after summer fades.

But while your hair might look great in the moment, the effects of months spent basking in the sun and dipping in the ocean or pool can take a serious toll on your scalp.

Prolonged exposure to UV rays, salt water, and chlorine can strip your scalp of essential moisture, leading to dryness, irritation, and buildup. If you’ve noticed flaking, tightness, or a dull, lifeless look to your hair, it’s time to hit reset on your scalp health.

How sun and swimming impact your scalp

Just as our skin suffers from environmental stressors, so does our scalp. According to Chloe Zara, former hairdresser and founder of CZE Hair, “UV rays can dehydrate the scalp, leading to irritation, dryness, and flaking, while salt water and chlorine strip away natural oils, leaving both the scalp and hair parched and brittle.” Over time, this can weaken your scalp’s protective barrier, making your hair more prone to breakage and a lacklustre appearance.

Felicity Collier, Joico guest artist and owner of Cocoon Salon in Timaru, warns neglecting scalp care can lead to more serious concerns.

“There are lots of skin conditions that can start from not correctly caring for your scalp. Irritations that can leave your scalp dry and flaky or spongy and have a buildup of dead skin.”

And let’s not forget the most serious risk of all, skin cancer. If you’ve been skipping SPF or leaving your scalp unprotected, it’s never too late to start prioritising sun safety with a hat or scalp sunscreen.

Signs your scalp needs some TLC

If your scalp feels off after summer, you’re not alone.

“The most obvious signs are usually itchy, redness or flaky dead skin but we always check for sensitivity or tight scalps. Sometimes clients aren’t aware how tight the skin has become from a sunburn or how sensitive it is,” Collier says.

Zara adds that scalp imbalance can impact your hair, leading to brittleness, dullness, and even excessive shedding. “If left unaddressed, prolonged scalp stress can disrupt the hair’s natural growth cycle, impacting overall hair health.”

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to give your scalp the attention it deserves.

Repairing and replenishing the scalp

Restoring scalp health starts with hydration and targeted care.

“A scalp treatment is something you should add to your next hair appointment,” says Collier.

“Assessing your scalp’s needs and then matching with the right treatment and massage technique will start encouraging a healthy scalp environment.”

Zara emphasises post-cleansing care: “Replenishing moisture is key”.

“I always recommend conditioning the scalp post-cleansing. Much like skincare, shampooing is a cleansing step, so hydration should follow. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to prevent product buildup at the roots.”

Incorporating a clarifying shampoo into your routine can help remove chlorine, salt, and mineral buildup from summer. Look for formulas designed to gently cleanse without stripping essential moisture.

Another overlooked factor may be your hairbrush. If brushing feels uncomfortable or painful, you could be causing more damage. Consider switching to a gentler brush designed to support scalp health.

When to seek expert help

If at-home care isn’t enough, it might be time to consult a professional. A certified trichologist specialises in scalp health and can recommend tailored treatments, whether you’re dealing with persistent dryness, irritation, or conditions such as psoriasis.

If you’re unsure where to start, your hairdresser can be a great resource.

“Next time you visit the salon, have a good chat with your stylist and ask them to assess your scalp, not just your hair,” says Collier. They may even be able to refer you to a trichologist in your area.

A healthy scalp is the foundation for beautiful hair. With a little post-summer care, you can shake off the seasonal damage and ensure your hair stays strong, shiny, and full of life, no beach waves required.