The sun is a natural source of vitamin D, which is necessary for our health and well-being. While excessive sun exposure can be hazardous, moderate exposure can be good to our hair and scalp. The benefits of sunlight on the hair and scalp will be discussed in this column.
Sunlight is a natural and significant source of vitamin D, which is required by the body for numerous biological functions. Vitamin D is important for hair health since it regulates hair development and maintenance. Vitamin D receptors have been found in hair follicles, and a lack of vitamin D can result in hair loss, thinning hair, and brittle hair.
When the skin is exposed to sunshine, it produces cholecalciferol, a kind of vitamin D. In the liver and kidneys, this type of vitamin D is transformed into its active form. The active form of vitamin D promotes the development of hair follicle cells and reduces inflammation in the scalp, which helps to control hair growth and maintenance.
Another benefit is that the exposure to sunlight can also benefit scalp health by lowering inflammation, dandruff, and psoriasis. Sunlight’s ultraviolet (UV) rays contain antibacterial capabilities, which can aid in the killing of dangerous bacteria and fungi on the scalp. UV rays can also assist to alleviate inflammation in the scalp by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory cytokines. This may result in a healthier scalp and less hair loss.
Sunlight can also increase blood flow to the scalp, which can aid in hair development. More nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the hair follicles when blood flow is enhanced, which can help nourish and strengthen the hair. UV light has been demonstrated in studies to enhance blood flow in the skin by boosting the generation of nitric oxide, a powerful vasodilator.
Have you noticed lighter hair in the summer? Sunlight’s UV rays can break down melanin in the hair, resulting in a lighter color. This can result in natural-looking highlights and a sun-kissed appearance to the hair. It is crucial to note, however, that excessive UV exposure can damage the hair and cause it to become dry, brittle, and frizzy.
It’s also no surprise that you feel less anxious and more calm throughout the summer. Sunlight exposure can also assist to alleviate stress, which can be beneficial to hair health. Chronic stress can cause a variety of hair-related problems, including hair loss, thinning hair, and scalp problems. Cortisol, the stress hormone, can also promote scalp inflammation, which can contribute to hair loss. Sunlight exposure can help to relieve stress by encouraging the release of endorphins, which are feel-good hormones that can boost mood and reduce stress.
The final advantage of sunlight exposure is that it can assist to manage sleep patterns, which can enhance hair health. Many biological processes in the body, including hair development and maintenance, require sleep. Sleep deprivation can cause stress and hormonal imbalances, which can affect hair growth and upkeep. Sunlight exposure can aid in the regulation of sleep patterns by increasing the production of melatonin, a hormone that governs sleep-wake cycles.
To summarize, sunshine exposure can have numerous benefits for hair and scalp health, including stimulating vitamin D production, enhancing scalp health, increasing blood flow to the scalp, providing natural-looking highlights, lowering stress levels, and regulating sleep patterns. However, it’s vital to note that too much sun exposure can be dangerous, so use sunscreen, caps, or protective hair products to safeguard your hair and scalp.
TAKE THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF VITAMINS FOR YOUR HAIR
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