Wet hair in the sun threatens sunburns and skin cancer

Most beachgoers don't even realize the threat that wet hair poses under the blazing sun: water droplets act as tiny lenses, multiplying the destructive effects of ultraviolet radiation many times over.

This was explained to gazeta.ru by dermatologist and trichologist Natalia Zhovtan.

"Water on hair acts as a dielectric lens: droplets refract and focus UV rays on the scalp surface and hair shafts, increasing the local radiation dose several times over," the expert explains.

A wet head under the open sun is a direct path to overheating and burns that may initially go unnoticed. In addition, the risk of developing skin cancer increases significantly.

"Water has a high heat capacity and creates a 'greenhouse effect' at the roots, reducing the body's natural heat dissipation," says Zhovtan. The treachery of the situation lies in the fact that moisture evaporation creates a deceptive sensation of coolness, masking the onset of a burn — while the deeper layers of skin are already receiving a dangerous dose of radiation.

The consequences of sun damage to hair don't appear immediately. For hair, this results in porosity, brittleness, and pigment fading.

"The result after 2–4 weeks is trichorrhexis, micro-holes — an irreversible process," the doctor emphasizes. For the scalp — persistent pigmentation spots and an increased risk of cancer, especially in the part line area. Those at particular risk include blond and red-haired individuals, as well as men with thinning hair.

To protect against unpleasant consequences, the doctor offers several simple recommendations:

— immediately after swimming, gently blot hair with a towel (don't rub!);

— apply mineral SPF 50+ based on zinc oxide to the scalp, paying special attention to the part line area;

— wear a wide-brimmed hat — it protects against both direct and reflected rays;

— use leave-in sprays with UV filters to protect the cuticle;

— avoid swimming without a head covering between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

"Protection doesn't require heroic efforts, but it prevents serious health problems," Zhovtan concludes.