Visiting or living in Hawaii will most definitely entail of long hours at the beach and in the sun. If you are wondering how to care for hair and skin after sun exposure, I have got you covered!
As an avid surfer, I am consistently in the sun for long periods of time. The sun and salt water can be quite harsh on your hair and skin. If you do not take the proper precautions and after care, this can lead to sun damage.

There are many different types of products out there that you can test out. After all, everyone has different hair and skin, some more sensitive than others. I tend to be on the sensitive side, so I love using the most natural products that I can get my hands on!

Before Sun Exposure

Prior to leaving your hotel or home, I always recommend applying sunscreen! In fact, pack it in your bag because you will definitely want to re-apply. Throw a hat and sunglasses in your beach bag too (you can thank me later)! Sunscreen protects your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Wearing sunscreen everyday, will help prevent long term sun damage such as wrinkles and sun spots, as well as skin cancer. Reapply every 40-60 minutes along with wearing your hat and sunglasses, and your skin will be very happy.
Check out our reef safe sunscreen list to help you choose what’s best for you, and the environment!

Now, after focusing on the skin, we must not forget about the hair! Without protecting your hair, it will go from shiny and luscious to dull, brittle and dry. The sun can also change your hair color (most of the time creating some beautiful sun kissed looking highlights). Saltwater can be damaging because it dehydrates your hair and scalp. Using a UV protection spray can really help, before getting in the sun and ocean.

During Your Day in the Sun

Re apply, re apply, re apply!! I cannot say it enough! This will be the determining factor of whether or not you get a beautiful bronzed sun tan, versus a red lobster burn! If you have spent the day in the water surfing, swimming, snorkeling, or all of the above… this will call for a reapplication. For surfing, a non-nano zinc sunscreen is best, so that you are able to get a nice thick coat covering your skin for a longer lasting time in the water. I even wear a surf hat if I know that I will be surfing during the middle of the day when the sun is strongest. A simple rash guard or surf top with UV protection in it can make your day easier.

After Care

Now, after you have spent a wonderful day exploring the island and getting that beautiful sun tan, (or burn-which I hope is not the case after reading this!) it is time to take care of your hair and skin. A nice cool shower should do the trick, with a shampoo and conditioner.
Applying a hair mask once a week will help protect your hair. For everyday application, Coconut Oil or Moroccan Argan Oil after showering works great. Just put a few drops in your hand and slide through the ends of the hair. I like to avoid putting oil in my roots because my hair will dry looking oily.
For the skin, a nice soothing lotion is great. Aloe Vera helps repair and soothe a bad sunburn, or just feels great on skin after roasting in the sun all day!
The brand Sun Bum has a great line of hair and skin care, most with SPF protection from the sun, as well as lotions that feel and smell amazing for soothing the skin. This brand has also been working for quite some time on being more eco friendly, reef safe and cruelty free!

Now that you know how to care for hair and skin after sun exposure, you are ready for the island! Let’s be honest, we all forget to apply sunscreen from time to time. Although it might be tempting to shy away from these simple suggestions, it will only help you keep that beautiful glow while protecting yourself from the damaging sides of the sun. Wear sunscreen, find some shade, take care after long exposure, and most importantly… enjoy your vacation!!