Colorado's altitude — 5,000 to 10,000+ feet across the front range — comes with about 25% more UV exposure than sea level. That extra intensity isn't just a skin concern; it's a hair concern. UV radiation breaks down hair pigment (color fade), strips natural oils (dryness), and damages the protein structure of the hair shaft (breakage, split ends).
For color-treated hair, that means faster fading and brassiness. For natural hair, it means increased dryness and brittleness. For anyone spending time outdoors this summer — hiking, biking, gardening, patio dining — protection matters.
Ready to schedule a summer maintenance appointment? Book a consultation or explore our treatments menu.
Why Colorado Sun is Different for Hair
At higher altitudes, the atmosphere filters less UV radiation. For every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, UV intensity increases by about 4%. At Denver's 5,280 feet, that's roughly 20% more UV than at sea level. In mountain towns like Vail or Breckenridge, it's 30–40% more.
This matters because:
- Color-treated hair fades faster: UV breaks down artificial pigment molecules, especially in fashion shades, reds, and cool blondes
- Natural hair oxidizes: UV exposure turns natural melanin pigment brassy or orangey over time
- Protein bonds weaken: UV damages the keratin structure, making hair more porous and prone to breakage
- Natural oils evaporate: Sun and heat dry out the scalp and hair shaft
Protection Strategies by Hair Type and Color
For Color-Treated Hair (Highlights, Balayage, All-Over Color)
Color-treated hair is the most vulnerable to UV damage. The chemical processes that deposit or lift color already make the cuticle more porous — UV exposure accelerates pigment breakdown and structural damage.
Immediate steps:
- Use UV-protective products: Look for leave-in sprays or creams with UV filters (SPF for hair). Apply before going outside, especially if you'll be out for more than 30 minutes.
- Wear physical barriers: A wide-brimmed hat is the most effective protection. Scarves and UV-protective hair wraps work too.
- Rinse after swimming: Chlorine and salt water + UV = accelerated color fade. Rinse with fresh water immediately after swimming, even if you're wearing a swim cap.
- Schedule more frequent gloss treatments: A toner or gloss treatment every 6–8 weeks instead of 8–10 weeks keeps color vibrant through peak UV months.
Long-term maintenance:
- Add a bond-building treatment: A bond pro treatment before summer starts reinforces the hair's protein structure against UV damage.
- Consider a color shift: If you're starting a new color in spring/summer, warm tones (copper, caramel, honey) hold up better than cool tones (ash, platinum) under Colorado sun.
For Natural Hair (Untreated or Virgin Hair)
Even natural hair needs protection. UV exposure oxidizes natural melanin, which can lead to unwanted warmth or brassiness, especially in lighter natural shades.
Protection plan:
- Hydrate aggressively: Colorado's dry climate + UV = extra dehydration. Use a weekly deep conditioning treatment and daily leave-in conditioner.
- Limit heat styling: UV already stresses hair protein. Adding daily heat tools increases the risk of cumulative damage. When you do style, always use a thermal protectant.
- Trim more frequently: Split ends travel faster under UV stress. Schedule trims every 8–10 weeks instead of 10–12 through summer.
- Use UV filters: Even natural hair benefits from UV-protective products. Look for sprays that add shine and protection without weighing hair down.
For Fashion/Unconventional Colors (Pastels, Vivids, Silver)
These are the most UV-sensitive color categories. What might last 6–8 weeks at sea level often shows noticeable fade in 3–4 weeks in Colorado.
Special considerations:
- Expect faster fade: Budget for color refreshes every 4–5 weeks during peak summer months.
- Use color-depositing products: Color-depositing conditioners or masks between appointments extend vibrancy.
- Avoid midday sun: Schedule outdoor activities for morning or evening when UV is lower.
- Consider a summer shift: Some clients switch to more UV-stable colors (copper, auburn, warm blonde) for summer, then return to fashion shades in fall.
Product Recommendations for Colorado Summers
Not all UV-protective products are created equal. Here's what we recommend for different needs:
For Maximum Protection
- Bumble and bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Primer: Lightweight spray with UV filters and heat protection
- Oribe Sunbrella Scalp & Hair Sunscreen Spray: SPF 30 protection specifically for hair and scalp
- Kevin.Murphy Young.Again Oil: UV protection plus reparative benefits for damaged hair
For Color-Treated Hair
- Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo & Conditioner: UV filters and color-protecting technology
- Pureology Color Fanatic Leave-In Treatment: Multi-tasking spray with UV protection and heat styling guard
- Olaplex No. 9 Bond Protector Serum: UV protection plus bond-building benefits
For Natural/Dry Hair
- Moroccanoil Treatment Light: UV protection plus argan oil for hydration (use the "Light" version for fine hair)
- Living Proof Restore Perfecting Spray: UV protection plus smoothing and anti-frizz benefits
- Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil: Weightless spray with UV filters and humidity resistance
Salon Treatments That Help With UV Damage
Prevention is ideal, but repair is often necessary. If your hair is already showing signs of UV damage — faded color, dryness, brittleness — these salon treatments can help:
1. Bond Pro Treatment
A bond pro treatment repairs the protein bonds UV radiation breaks down. It's the single most effective treatment for structural damage caused by sun exposure.
Best for: Color-treated hair, bleached hair, or anyone with noticeable breakage or elasticity loss.
2. Custom Hydration Treatment
Colorado's dry climate compounds UV dehydration. A custom hydration treatment with targeted ingredients (ceramides, hyaluronic acid, plant oils) restores moisture balance.
Best for: Natural hair that feels dry or brittle, or color-treated hair that's lost its shine.
3. Gloss/Toner Refresh
For color-treated hair showing UV fade, a gloss or toner adds back pigment and shine without additional chemical processing. It's a quick appointment (30–45 minutes) that makes a dramatic difference.
Best for: Blondes looking brassy, brunettes looking dull, or anyone wanting to refresh color vibrancy.
4. Trim and Shape
UV damage concentrates at the ends. A strategic trim removes the most compromised sections, allowing healthier hair to grow in better condition.
Best for: Everyone, but especially those with split ends or breakage at the ends.
Summer Hair Care Schedule for Colorado Clients
Based on typical UV exposure and Colorado's climate, here's an ideal maintenance schedule:
May–August (Peak UV Months)
- Every 4–6 weeks: Color-treated clients (especially blondes and fashion shades)
- Every 6–8 weeks: Natural hair clients needing trims
- Every 8 weeks: Bond or hydration treatment for prevention
- As needed: Gloss/toner refresh for color maintenance
September–October (Transition Months)
- Every 6–8 weeks: Most clients
- Pre-winter treatment: Bond or hydration treatment to prepare for indoor heating season
- Color adjustment: Consider shifting to cooler tones as UV decreases
Common Questions About Summer Hair Protection
Q: Does hair sunscreen actually work?
A: Yes, but not like skin sunscreen. Hair UV products work by coating the hair shaft with filters that absorb or reflect UV radiation. They're most effective when applied evenly and reapplied after swimming or sweating.
Q: How much does altitude really affect hair?
A: Significantly. At 5,000 feet, UV intensity is about 20% higher than sea level. At 10,000 feet, it's about 40% higher. This translates to color fading 1.5–2x faster and increased protein damage.
Q: Can I just wear a hat?
A: A hat is excellent protection for the top layers of hair, but doesn't protect the sides and back as effectively. Combine a hat with a UV-protective product for full coverage.
Q: My color fades so fast in summer — is it my stylist's fault?
A: Not necessarily. Colorado's altitude means all color fades faster here. The solution is adjusting your maintenance schedule and using protective products, not changing your color service.
Q: What's the most cost-effective protection?
A: A wide-brimmed hat + a quality UV-protective leave-in spray. Together, they provide about 90% of the protection of more expensive options at a fraction of the cost.
Book a Summer Protection Consultation in Lone Tree
Summer hair protection starts with understanding your hair's specific needs. At Burman & Co, we assess your current condition, color history, and summer plans to create a customized protection plan.
We serve clients from Lone Tree, Highlands Ranch, Centennial, Parker, Castle Rock, and across the south Denver metro.
Visit us: 8353 Willow St C1, Lone Tree, CO 80124
Call: (303) 706-9626
Book online: Contact Us
Explore protective treatments: Treatments | Coloring | Cuts | Meet our team