Why Your Hair Gets Dry in Summer

May 14, 2026

Summer is one of the harshest seasons for hair. UV rays, chlorine, salt water, heat, and humidity all attack the hair shaft simultaneously — leaving hair dry, brittle, faded, and frizzy. Here's exactly what's happening and how to protect your hair all summer.

Why Summer Dries Out Hair

1. UV Radiation

The sun's UV rays break down the protein structure of the hair shaft — the same way they damage skin. This causes color fading, dryness, brittleness, and a rough, straw-like texture. Hair has no built-in UV protection.

2. Chlorine from Swimming Pools

Chlorine strips the hair's natural oils and penetrates the cuticle, causing severe dryness and color damage. Blonde hair can turn green. Dark hair becomes dull and brittle. Rinsing hair with fresh water before swimming reduces chlorine absorption.

3. Salt Water

Ocean salt water draws moisture out of the hair shaft through osmosis — leaving hair dry, tangled, and rough. The salt also roughens the cuticle, causing frizz and breakage.

4. Heat and Humidity

High temperatures accelerate moisture evaporation from the hair shaft. Humidity causes the cuticle to swell and frizz. The combination of heat and humidity is particularly damaging for color-treated and chemically processed hair.

5. More Frequent Washing

Sweating more in summer leads to more frequent washing — which strips natural oils and dries the scalp and hair faster than in cooler months.

Summer Hair Protection

Apply a heat protectant before any outdoor exposure or heat styling. The Heat Protectant Spray (5.9 fl oz, up to 450°F) is a lightweight thermal shield that prevents damage and breakage — sulfate and paraben free. Use before blow drying and before extended sun exposure.

The PURA D'OR Argan Oil Heat Shield Protectant Spray (8 oz, up to 450°F) with organic ingredients protects, defines, and adds shine — a leave-in formula that works as both a heat protectant and a summer moisture shield.