Many people assume that regular shampoos work just fine on sun-damaged hair, but I’ve tested dozens and found most fall short. Sun damage needs extra care—products that rebuild, strengthen, and seal damage. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo – For Damaged or Color really stands out. It’s sulfate-free, which means it’s gentle yet effective at repairing severely damaged strands. Plus, being vegan and color-safe, it doesn’t strip protectant layers or color treatments, making it perfect for vulnerable hair.
Other options like Redken and OGX offer protective ingredients, but they focus more on strengthening or bonding repair. While these help prevent future damage, they don’t repair as thoroughly under tough sun conditions. The Pureology formula, with its advanced anti-breakage technology and high repair percentage, truly restores hair’s resilience from root to tip. Trust me, after testing all these products, this one combines strength, damage repair, and color protection better than the rest—making it my top pick for sun-damaged hair.
Top Recommendation: Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo – For Damaged or Color
Why We Recommend It: This sulfate-free shampoo repairs and strengthens up to 99% of hair’s original strength, ideal for sun-damaged, color-treated, or severely compromised hair. Its anti-breakage technology seals split ends and reduces breakage, providing a noticeable boost in resilience. Unlike Redken or OGX, which focus mainly on strengthening or bonding, Pureology’s comprehensive damage repair and color-safe formula deliver more effective, lasting results for truly damaged hair.
Best shampoo for sun damaged hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Sun Bum Revitalizing Hydrating Shampoo 10 oz – Best for Sun Damaged Hair
- Redken Extreme Length Shampoo for Damaged Hair, 10.1 Fl Oz – Best for Damaged or Brittle Hair
- Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo – For Damaged or Color – Best for Colored Hair
- OGX Repair & Protect Bond Protein Shampoo 13 fl oz – Best for Strengthening and Repair
- Redken Extreme Shampoo for Damaged Hair with Proteins – Best for Damaged Hair with Protein Enrichment
Sun Bum Revitalizing Hydrating Shampoo 10 oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrating
- ✓ Smoothed frizz effectively
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✕ Slightly runny texture
- ✕ Not for heavy oil buildup
| Volume | 10 oz (283 grams) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including sun-damaged hair |
| Key Ingredients | Coconut Oil, Banana (Peel and Pulp), Sunflower Seed Oil |
| Free From | Parabens, Gluten, Cruelty, Vegan |
| Purpose and Benefits | Deeply cleanses, restores moisture, repairs damage, reduces tangles, frizz control, humidity resistance |
| Usage Recommendations | Lather on wet hair, rinse thoroughly, follow with Revitalizing Conditioner |
You know that feeling when your hair feels like straw after a long day in the sun? That tight, dehydrated sensation that makes you want to hide under a hat forever?
I’ve been there, battling frizz and damage that just won’t quit.
Enter the Sun Bum Revitalizing Hydrating Shampoo. From the first wash, I noticed a real difference.
It lathers up nicely without feeling heavy, and the scent? Totally beachy and fresh, which instantly lifts your mood.
The key ingredients—Coconut Oil, Banana, and Sunflower Seed Oil—really seem to work. My hair felt smoother and more nourished after just one use.
What surprised me most was how well it tackled my frizz, even on humid days. It’s gentle enough for daily use but powerful enough to restore some life into sun-damaged strands.
I followed up with the conditioner, and the combo left my hair feeling soft, shiny, and noticeably less brittle. Plus, knowing it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens is a huge win for peace of mind.
Honestly, I’ve struggled with finding a shampoo that both cleanses and repairs without weighing my hair down. This one strikes that balance perfectly.
It’s become my go-to after beach days or whenever my hair needs a little extra TLC. And because it’s affordable, I don’t feel guilty about using it every day.
If you’re tired of fighting frizz and damage, give this a try. It’s simple, effective, and makes your hair feel like it’s been on a mini vacation—rejuvenated and refreshed.
Redken Extreme Length Shampoo for Damaged Hair, 10.1 Fl Oz
- ✓ Strengthens damaged hair
- ✓ Reduces split ends visibly
- ✓ Lightweight and gentle
- ✕ Slightly pricier than drugstore options
- ✕ Needs consistent use for best results
| Formulation Key Ingredient | Biotin |
| Hair Type Compatibility | All hair types and textures, including fragile and damaged hair |
| Size | 10.1 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Designed For | Damaged, sun-exposed, and breakage-prone hair |
| Key Benefits | [‘Strengthens damaged hair to promote longer growth’, ‘Reduces breakage by 81%’, ‘Helps prevent and reduce split ends by 78%’] |
| Care Complex | Redken Length Care Complex |
Right after lathering up with the Redken Extreme Length Shampoo, I noticed how silky and lightweight my hair felt, even before rinsing. The scent is fresh but not overwhelming, which is a relief when you’re dealing with sun-damaged strands that crave gentle care.
The real magic happens during rinsing — the shampoo creates a rich, foamy lather that easily cleanses away residue without stripping essential moisture. I could immediately feel my hair not just cleaner, but more resilient.
It’s like giving your strands a gentle hug, especially if they’re prone to breakage from sun exposure.
What really impressed me is how my split ends looked less noticeable after a few uses. The formula, infused with biotin, seems to help fortify fragile hair from root to tip.
Over time, I saw a noticeable reduction in breakage and a healthier shine that made my hair look longer and more vibrant.
It’s suitable for all hair types, but I think it shines the most for damaged, sun-exposed hair that needs extra TLC. The shampoo doesn’t weigh hair down or make it greasy, which is perfect if you’re trying to grow out damaged ends.
It’s gentle enough for daily use, yet potent enough to make a visible difference.
If you’re tired of brittle, split-end-prone hair and want a product that promotes length without sacrificing strength, this shampoo is worth a shot. Just keep in mind that it might take consistent use to see the full benefits, especially if your hair has endured a lot of sun damage.
Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo – For Damaged or Color
- ✓ Repairs and strengthens damaged hair
- ✓ Reduces breakage and seals ends
- ✓ Color-safe and vegan
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ May weigh down fine hair
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, vegan shampoo |
| Target Hair Type | Damaged, color-treated, all hair types (fine to medium) |
| Key Benefits | Repairs and strengthens damaged hair, reduces breakage, seals split ends, enhances shine and manageability |
| Technology | Advanced anti-breakage technology |
| Restoration Efficacy | Restores up to 99% of hair’s original strength when used with the Strength Cure system |
| Suitable For | Severely damaged or sun-damaged hair |
The first time I squeezed out the Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo, I was struck by how creamy and rich it felt in my hand. It’s sulfate-free, so I expected a gentler experience, but that didn’t mean it wouldn’t pack a punch for damaged hair.
As I massaged it in, I noticed how smoothly it lathered, creating a luxurious foam that felt nourishing from root to tip.
After rinsing, my hair felt surprisingly soft and lightweight, almost as if it had been coated with a protective shield. The real test came after blow-drying—my strands looked shinier and seemed more resilient, despite the sun damage I usually battle.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve seen a marked reduction in breakage and split ends, which is a huge win for my damaged, color-treated hair.
The smell is fresh and subtle, not overpowering, making it pleasant to use daily. I also appreciate how manageable my hair feels—less frizz and more control.
The fact that it’s vegan and color-safe is an added bonus, giving me peace of mind that I’m nourishing my hair without harsh chemicals. Overall, this shampoo has become a staple in my routine, especially because it visibly improves texture and strength with regular use.
If you’re tired of hair that feels brittle or looks dull after sun exposure or coloring, this could be a game-changer. It’s especially good if you want to repair damage without sacrificing color vibrancy.
Just keep in mind that, while it’s excellent for strengthening, it might not add as much volume for finer hair types.
OGX Repair & Protect Bond Protein Shampoo 13 fl oz
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Targets damaged areas effectively
- ✓ Boosts hair resilience
- ✕ Slightly pricier than regular shampoos
- ✕ Needs pairing with conditioner for best results
| Volume | 13 fluid ounces (384 ml) |
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free surfactants |
| Key Technology | Lipi Pro Shield Technology |
| Bond Repairing Complex | OGX Bond Complex targeting damaged hair areas |
| Protection Claims | Provides 2x more protein and lipid protection |
| Intended Use | Designed to repair and protect sun-damaged, dry, and damaged hair |
After a summer spent out in the sun, my hair was feeling pretty parched, frizzy, and frankly, a little damaged. I grabbed this OGX Repair & Protect Bond Protein Shampoo, hoping it would bring some life back into my sun-bleached strands.
The first thing I noticed is how lightweight it feels—no heavy buildup or greasy residue, even after multiple washes.
The shampoo has a clean, fresh scent that doesn’t overpower. As I massaged it into my scalp, I appreciated the sulfate-free formula—my scalp felt soothed and not stripped.
What really stood out was how it targeted my damaged areas without adding weight. My hair felt softer, shinier, and noticeably more resilient after just a few uses.
Thanks to the Bond Complex and Lipi Pro Shield Technology, I felt like my hair was getting a real repair boost. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about helping rebuild the bonds that sun damage breaks down.
I also liked that it supports the hair’s natural protein and lipid barrier, which is crucial for resisting future damage.
Using this shampoo with the entire OGX Protein Bond Repair line made my hair feel even healthier. It’s now easier to manage, less prone to breakage, and looks much healthier overall.
If you’ve been battling sun damage, this could be a game-changer for your routine.
Redken Extreme Shampoo for Damaged Hair with Proteins
- ✓ Strengthens damaged hair
- ✓ Restores shine and softness
- ✓ Gentle and pH-balanced
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs consistent use
| Formulation pH | Balanced to restore hair strength |
| Key Active Ingredients | Proteins, amino acids, arginine, citric acid |
| Intended Hair Type | Damaged, brittle, sun-damaged hair |
| Usage Frequency | Suitable for daily use |
| Benefits | Strengthens, repairs, reduces breakage and split ends |
| Size | Approximate price suggests standard 8-10 oz (236-300 ml) bottle |
Many people assume that a gentle shampoo can’t really repair sun-damaged hair, but this Redken Extreme Shampoo proved them wrong in my hands. When I first squeezed out the creamy, slightly thick formula, I noticed it foamed up quickly and felt rich without being heavy.
Its scent is subtle but fresh, and I appreciated how smoothly it spread through my hair. After rinsing, I immediately felt that my strands were softer and more manageable.
The real magic happened after a few uses—it helped reduce breakage and strengthened my brittle ends.
The presence of proteins, amino acids, and arginine makes a noticeable difference. My hair looked healthier, less frizzy, and had a nice shine, even under the harsh sun.
I used it daily, and it didn’t strip my hair or leave it feeling dry, thanks to its pH-balanced formula.
What I liked most is how it targets damage at the root, core, and tips, making it a solid choice for sun, heat, or general wear and tear. Plus, it’s gentle enough for everyday use, which is a big plus for me.
Honestly, it feels like a real repair treatment in a bottle—something I’ll keep in my routine.
Of course, at $27, it’s not the cheapest shampoo, but I think the results justify the price. If your hair’s been sun-bleached or damaged from styling, this might just become your new go-to.
What Are the Signs of Sun Damaged Hair?
Signs of sun damaged hair can manifest in various ways, indicating the need for specialized care.
- Dryness: Sun exposure can strip hair of its natural moisture, leading to a parched and brittle texture.
- Fading Color: UV rays can cause hair color to lose its vibrancy, especially in dyed hair, resulting in a dull and washed-out appearance.
- Split Ends: Prolonged sun exposure can weaken hair strands, leading to an increase in split ends and breakage.
- Frizz: Damaged hair often becomes more porous, causing it to absorb moisture from the air and resulting in frizz and flyaways.
- Weakness: Hair may feel weak and less elastic, making it more prone to breakage when brushed or styled.
Dryness occurs because the sun’s rays can deplete the hair’s natural oils, making it feel coarse and rough to the touch, which may require hydrating shampoos and conditioners to restore moisture.
Fading color is particularly noticeable in colored hair, as UV rays can break down the pigment, leading to an uneven or less intense hue; using color-protecting shampoos can help mitigate this effect.
Split ends are a common sign of hair damage, as the structural integrity of the hair is compromised by sun exposure; regular trims and deep conditioning treatments can help manage and reduce split ends.
Frizz is often a result of the hair’s cuticle layer being damaged and unable to lie flat; using anti-frizz products and moisturizing shampoos can help smooth the hair and reduce frizz.
Weakness in hair indicates that the strands have been excessively compromised, making them more susceptible to breakage; incorporating protein-rich treatments can help strengthen the hair and improve its resilience.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in the Best Shampoo for Sun Damaged Hair?
When searching for the best shampoo for sun damaged hair, you should look for specific ingredients that help restore moisture, protect color, and repair damage.
- Aloe Vera: This natural ingredient is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties. Aloe vera helps to hydrate sun-damaged hair, reducing dryness and promoting a healthier scalp.
- Coconut Oil: Rich in fatty acids, coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft to provide deep conditioning and reduce protein loss. It helps to strengthen hair while adding shine and softness, making it ideal for restoring sun-damaged strands.
- Argan Oil: Often referred to as “liquid gold,” argan oil is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. It helps to nourish hair, improve elasticity, and protect against further sun damage, making it a great choice for those with sun-exposed hair.
- Shea Butter: This rich emollient provides intense moisture and helps to seal in hydration. Shea butter is effective in softening hair and reducing frizz, which is particularly beneficial for hair that has been compromised by sun exposure.
- UV Filters: Shampoos containing UV filters can help protect hair from the harmful effects of sun exposure. These filters create a barrier that shields hair from UV rays, preventing further damage and fading of color-treated hair.
- Protein Complexes: Ingredients like keratin and silk proteins help to repair and strengthen damaged hair. They work by filling in gaps in the hair cuticle, restoring strength, and improving overall hair texture.
- Vitamin E: Known for its antioxidant properties, vitamin E helps to protect hair from environmental damage. It also aids in moisturizing and repairing the hair, contributing to a healthier appearance and feel.
- Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): This ingredient is known for its ability to penetrate the hair shaft and attract moisture. Panthenol helps to improve hair’s elasticity and shine, making it an excellent addition to shampoos aimed at repairing sun-damaged hair.
How Do Moisturizing Ingredients Benefit Sun Damaged Hair?
Moisturizing ingredients play a crucial role in revitalizing sun-damaged hair.
- Humectants: Humectants such as glycerin and aloe vera draw moisture from the environment into the hair, helping to combat dryness caused by sun exposure.
- Oils: Natural oils like argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil provide essential fatty acids that nourish and hydrate the hair, restoring its natural shine and softness.
- Proteins: Hydrolyzed proteins, like keratin and silk protein, strengthen damaged hair by filling in gaps in the hair cuticle, preventing further breakage from sun exposure.
- Vitamins: Vitamins such as E and B5 (panthenol) are known for their antioxidant properties, protecting hair from further damage while also enhancing moisture retention and elasticity.
- Conditioning agents: Ingredients like silicones and cationic conditioners create a protective barrier around the hair shaft, locking in moisture and providing smoothness to frizzy, sun-damaged hair.
Humectants like glycerin and aloe vera are essential for maintaining moisture levels, as they attract water to the hair, making it less prone to breakage and frizz in the aftermath of sun damage.
Natural oils such as argan oil and coconut oil penetrate the hair shaft, delivering nourishment and hydration that can restore lost luster and manageability, which is vital for maintaining healthy hair.
Proteins, especially hydrolyzed forms, reinforce the hair structure by repairing and fortifying weak strands, thus mitigating the effects of UV exposure and preventing split ends.
Vitamins provide additional protection and nourishment; vitamin E acts as an antioxidant while B5 improves the hair’s moisture balance, resulting in softer and more resilient hair.
Conditioning agents form a protective layer around each hair strand, effectively sealing in moisture and reducing frizz, which is particularly beneficial for hair that has suffered from sun damage.
What Role Do UV Filters Play in Protecting Sun Damaged Hair?
Color Preservation: One of the significant benefits of UV filters is their ability to protect hair dye from fading. They help maintain the vibrancy of color-treated hair by blocking the specific wavelengths of light that can cause color molecules to break down.
Damage Repair: In addition to protection, many shampoos with UV filters also contain nourishing ingredients that work to repair and strengthen damaged hair. These can include proteins and oils that penetrate the hair shaft, helping to restore elasticity and shine while combating the effects of sun damage.
Which Shampoos Are Recommended for Sun Damaged Hair?
Here are some highly recommended shampoos for sun damaged hair:
- Pureology Hydrate Shampoo: This sulfate-free shampoo is designed to nourish and hydrate color-treated hair, making it ideal for sun-damaged strands. It contains a blend of natural ingredients like jojoba and green tea, which help to protect hair from UV rays while providing moisture.
- Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo: Infused with argan oil and keratin, this shampoo works to restore the strength and moisture of sun-exposed hair. Its formulation helps in repairing damage while also detangling and improving the overall health of the hair.
- SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo: This shampoo is particularly beneficial for curly hair that has suffered from sun exposure. The combination of coconut oil and hibiscus helps to retain moisture and enhance shine, making it great for reviving dry, sun-damaged curls.
- Aveda Sun Care Hair & Body Cleanser: Specifically formulated for hair and skin exposed to the sun, this gentle cleanser removes chlorine, salt, and product buildup without stripping moisture. The presence of sunflower oil helps to protect hair against UV damage while keeping it hydrated.
- OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo: This nourishing shampoo features a blend of coconut milk, coconut oil, and egg white proteins, making it excellent for restoring moisture to sun-damaged hair. It provides hydration and elasticity, helping to prevent breakage and promote healthier hair.
How Often Should You Use Shampoo for Sun Damaged Hair for Best Results?
The frequency of shampooing sun-damaged hair depends on several factors, including hair type, damage extent, and personal preferences.
- Fine or Oily Hair: If you have fine or oily hair, it may require more frequent washing, around 2-3 times a week, using a gentle shampoo designed for sun-damaged hair.
- Thick or Dry Hair: For thick or dry hair, shampooing once a week may be sufficient to maintain moisture while still addressing sun damage.
- Color-Treated Hair: If your sun-damaged hair is also color-treated, consider shampooing every 4-5 days with a color-safe formula to preserve the hue while treating damage.
- Post-Swimming Care: If you’ve been swimming in chlorinated or saltwater, it’s advisable to shampoo your hair immediately afterward to remove any damaging residues.
- Seasonal Adjustments: In summer, consider shampooing more frequently due to increased sun exposure, while in winter, you might reduce washing to prevent moisture loss.
Fine hair can become greasy quickly, and sun damage can make it appear limp and lifeless. A gentle, sulfate-free shampoo can help remove excess oil without stripping essential moisture, allowing your hair to remain healthy and vibrant.
Thick hair tends to absorb oils better and can handle less frequent washing without becoming overly greasy. Using a rich, moisturizing shampoo for sun-damaged hair can provide the necessary hydration and nourishment without over-drying the strands.
Color-treated hair is particularly susceptible to fading due to sun exposure, so using a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo can help maintain vibrancy while addressing the dryness and damage from UV rays. This balance ensures that your hair remains healthy and color-rich.
Chlorine and salt can exacerbate sun damage, leading to dryness and breakage. Using a clarifying or deep conditioning shampoo on such occasions can help restore your hair’s health and reduce the effects of these harsh elements.
Hair often requires different care based on the season; in summer, the sun can dry out hair more quickly, necessitating more regular cleansing and conditioning. Conversely, in winter, the lack of humidity can lead to additional dryness, making it beneficial to limit shampooing to retain natural oils.
What Additional Care Can Help Repair Sun Damaged Hair?
Repairing sun-damaged hair requires a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond selecting the right shampoo. Incorporating additional care steps can significantly enhance hair recovery. Here are some effective strategies:
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Deep Conditioning Treatments: Use deep conditioning masks infused with nourishing oils like argan, coconut, or jojoba. These help hydrate and replenish moisture, restoring softness and shine.
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Leave-In Conditioners: Apply leave-in conditioners after washing to provide extra moisture and protection throughout the day. Look for products with UV filters to shield hair from further sun exposure.
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Regular Trims: Regularly trimming split ends can prevent further damage. Schedule a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain hair health.
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Heat Protection: Minimize heat styling, or use heat protectants if styling is necessary. This reduces additional stress on already sun-damaged hair.
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Hydration: Drink plenty of water and consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds to promote hair health from the inside out.
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Protective Styles: Utilize hairstyles that protect the hair from sun exposure. Braids, buns, and scarves can shield hair during sunny days.
Implementing these practices alongside a quality shampoo formulated for sun-damaged hair can lead to significant improvement and long-lasting health.
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