Dermatologist support for UV filters in hair care
damage have been championed by dermatologists at the American
Academy of Dermatology.
Dr Zoe Draelos a New York based dermatologist highlighted the importance of protecting the hair against UV damage, particularly after coloring, last week at the American Academy of Dermatology's (Academy) SKIN Academy on November 8th. A number of newer hairsprays contain sunscreens that can help to prevent protein breakdown due to sun exposure, according to Draelos. Furthermore, the products can be particularly useful for individuals who have coloured their hair, as sun exposure can lead to color fading, she said. Notable recent examples launched in the US include Matrix Essentials Logics Color DNA System Creative Styling Spray and Graham Webb Halo Illuminating Color Protection Flexible Control Hair Spray. Conditioners that are specifically formulated for use after hair coloring that contain sunscreens were also championed by the dermatologist. UV light has been attributed with speeding up the aging and thinning process in hair follicles, which has led to a number of manufacturers to release products aimed at limiting UV damage, often marketed as anti-aging hair care treatments. Earlier this year Dermaplus, a US based company, released Keracyte, an anti-aging scalp conditioner. The company says that Keracyte has been formulated to stimulate hair follicles to make existing hair shafts thicker, stronger and longer, giving an impression of more luxurious and youthful looking hair. The product also contains a catalytic anti-oxidant, Prolisel, which the company says protects against the damaging effects of UV light. In addition, certain product ranges specialise in repairing UV damage after the event such as Joico's K-Pak sun therapy system which is said to replenish burnt hair strands with a three-step routine. The K-Pac hair protection system complex incorporates antioxidants and essential fatty acids to create what the company claims an 'environmental barrier' to restore the shine that is often dulled by prolonged exposure to the sun. Such highly specialized products represent further microsegmentation of the hair care sector, with manufacturers turning to increasingly targeted products as a way of competing in a saturated market place. In addition, the latest in silicone technology has revolutionized the hair conditioning product sector, according to Draelos, resulting in products that can smooth cuticles, temporarily mend split ends, decrease combing friction, reduce breakage and improve the ability of hair to retain color.
