Protecting hair and colour against sun damage

Whether they are going to the beach, sunbathing at the pool, or briefly at all outdoor activities, consumers are becoming more aware that they are putting their hair at risk – as a Datamonitor survey found (Bangkok 2014), in total, 29% of global consumers were concerned about sun damage to their hair.

With its Hair Care System UV Protection, BASF Care Creations offers a range of effective formulations which not only feature its proven broad spectrum UV filter, Uvinul® A Plus B, but which also ensure the filter adheres to the hair long enough to protect it. Consisting of a shampoo (Welcome Sun), an SPF conditioner (Beautiful Summer Hair), and a mousse (Enjoy the Sun at the Beach), the new system allows consumers to protect their hair against harmful UV rays and fading colour, while giving it a welcome treat.

There is convincing evidence that UV irradiation can lead to hair damage (e.g. Santos Nogueira et al., 2004; Lee WS, 2009). Whereas changes in hair colour are primarily attributable to UVA irradiation (320 nm–400 nm), UVB (290 nm–320 nm) leads to protein damage, and keratin damagein particular. This can leave the hair dry, brittle, and lustreless. The effect is sometimes referred to as photoageing of the hair.