Millions of us feel that our mood changes with the seasons. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a recognised condition! But it’s not just our emotions that can alter as environmental conditions vary as the year goes by. Our bodies are affected too. These changes are often very subtle and slow-moving, but they can be significant, impacting various parts of our physiology. One difference that many people observe happens in summer – they find their hair growth increases. Although the exact reasons for the phenomenon are still being studied, it seems clear that hair does tend to grow faster in summer. Here’s the lowdown.
Why Does Hair Grow Faster In The Summer?
It’s thought that several factors drive accelerated hair growth in the summer:
Higher Temperatures
Hot weather increases blood circulation. When it’s warm, blood vessels dilate, the heart rate rises, and blood moves faster. And although this can lead to health problems in some individuals, it's thought that this can positively influence the hair growth cycle.
Better Diet
Summer is a brilliant time for fresh produce. We see a wider variety of fruits and vegetables on supermarket shelves, and we’re more likely to eat them too. And this increase in nutrient uptake can have a positive impact on our hair health. We also tend to drink more water with warmer weather. And hydration is an important factor in keeping our follicles in great condition.
Less Stress
Chronic stress plays havoc with our hair, leading to hair thinning and loss. The warmer summer months see us get outside more, and go on holiday. Both are great for destressing. And we also exercise more! Meanwhile, increased daylight hours boost levels of serotonin, the hormone that regulates our mood.
Increased Vitamin D Levels
Not only does getting out and about in the sunshine lower stress levels, but it also boosts your Vitamin D levels. Increased exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays drives the production of this essential hair vitamin in the skin. Consultant Trichologist and Hair Gain Ambassador Samantha Stewart has noted the reduced rate of hair loss in her patients in summertime. She feels that “this is probably down to the increase in Vitamin D which is a necessary vitamin in the growing phase of the hair growth cycle. A lot of people are deficient in this vitamin, so a boost during late spring and summer can increase levels.”
How To Achieve Long and Luscious Locks This Summer – And Beyond!
With her years of experience helping people combat hair health issues, Trichologist Samantha Stewart has some excellent tips to get the amazing tresses we all want this summer.
A 12-Month Approach
Firstly, whatever the condition of your hair, it is vital that you take a long-term, holistic approach to hair health. As Samantha emphasises, “it’s really important that we have a hair management regime that allows our hair to thrive all year round.”
Turn The Heat Down
For many of us, summertime is party time, where our diaries are filled with events and occasions. It’s tempting to get those heat styling tools out to look our best! But Samantha advises that “minimising the use of styling tools can protect the hair from mechanical damage which can lead to breakage and can greatly affect length retention.” If you must use them, then turn the heat level right down. Samantha also recommends using products that come with heat protection.
The Power Of Antioxidants
Antioxidants play an important role in reducing potential damage to our hair. And especially during summer, as they protect our locks from UV and sun damage. They also can increase blood circulation in the scalp. “Taking and using products that contain antioxidants help protect the hair from environmental stressors, such as pollutants, which can cause the hair to become dry and brittle,” Samantha explains.
Samantha recommends taking two Hair Gain Hair Capsules daily. Packed with antioxidants, this can “help protect the hair follicle and reduce oxidative stress, which increases inflammation and has been linked to hair loss,” she reveals. Fuelled with the unique AnaGain™ ingredient, Hair Gain Hair Capsules, along with her sister supplement Hair Gain Hair Gummies, are clinically proven to reduce hair fall, stimulate growth and promote thicker tresses.
Scalp Foam
It’s not just Hair Gain’s amazing supplements that give your hair an antioxidant boost. Samantha also advocates using the Hair Gain Scalp Foam, as not only does it contain antioxidants, but it “helps protect the scalp’s barrier function which is important in maintaining the overall health of the scalp to support healthy hair growth.” The Scalp Foam penetrates the scalp, boosting moisture and leaving it hydrated and refreshed. And there’s zero residue! Powered by AnaGain™, this brilliant topical will help stimulate hair growth too.
Protect Your Hair In The Summer
The sun and the heat of summer can play havoc with our locks and scalp. UV rays can weaken the hair follicles by degrading protein, while heat can strip out natural oils. Factor in environmental pollutants and sweat, and your scalp pores become clogged, leading to irritation and inflammation. It’s a recipe for poor scalp health, poor hair health and impeded hair growth.
““Protecting the hair from direct sunlight in the summer by wearing a hat, scarf, or using products that contain sunscreen can help protect the hair from the sun’s harmful rays. Plus, I’d recommend using a hydrating hair mask regularly to lock in moisture,” Samantha advises. Hair Gain Hair Mask’s scientifically formulated formula is intensely hydrating and nourishing. And it strengthens, repairs and protects the hair. It’s a vital tool in combatting the summer heat!
Does Hair Grow Faster In The Summer – Final Thoughts
Although more research is needed to fully explain the relationship between the changing seasons and hair growth, the answer to the question “Does hair grow faster in summer?” is a strong “YES!” Take full advantage of the phenomenon by using Hair Gain's fabulous range of supplements and topicals. They will support your hair and scalp inside and out while you lie back and enjoy the weather!
Read More
A Trichologist’s Top Tips To Fight Frizzy Hair
Influencer Reclaims Curls After Post Holiday Hair Loss In Just 6 Weeks
7 Summer Hairstyles For Thin Hair
