Think your locs can handle the sun? Think again.
Just like your skin, your hair is vulnerable to sun damage. Too much UV exposure can dry out your locs, weaken your strands, and irritate your scalp.
But here’s the good news: with the right natural treatments, you can protect your locs before heading outside and repair them if the sun has already taken its toll.
In this guide, you’ll find 10 simple, effective DIY recipes that you can make at home using ingredients you probably already have.
PS. Continue reading to download the recipes mentioned in this post!
Before Sun Exposure: Protect and Prevent
Preventing sun damage is always easier than fixing it. These three DIY sprays are lightweight, hydrating, and perfect to apply before stepping outside.
Green Tea & Oil Spritz
Great for: UV protection, shine
What you need:
- 1.5 cups of water
- 1 green tea bag (or black tea if you have dark hair—just be careful, it can stain!)
- 1 teaspoon grapeseed oil (or another lightweight oil)
Instructions:
- Bring water to just below a boil and steep your tea bag for 10–15 minutes.
- Let it cool to room temperature, then pour into a spray bottle.
- Add the oil, shake well, and spritz onto your locs about 15 minutes before going out.
- Reapply as needed throughout the day.
Rose Water & Oil Spray
Great for: Frizz control, hydration
What you need:
- 1.5 cups rose water
- 20 drops of a carrier oil (like grapeseed or your favorite alternative)
Instructions:
- Combine in a spray bottle, shake well, and spritz generously over your locs.
- Reapply while you’re out in the sun.
Aloe Vera Mist
Great for: Moisture boost, scalp care
What you need:
- ¼ cup fresh aloe vera gel
- 1 cup distilled water
- 5–10 drops rosemary essential oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon carrier oil for added moisture
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients in a spray bottle.
- Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply as needed, especially if you’ll be out for a while.
Scalp Care in the Sun
Sunscreen on your scalp? It’s tricky. While some sunscreens might work, many leave residue behind on your locs. Here’s a gentler, more natural approach.
Natural Scalp Oil
What you need:
- A carrier oil safe for the scalp (like jojoba or grapeseed)
- A few drops of essential oil (like tea tree, lavender, or rosemary)
Instructions:
- Apply around your hairline, ears, and nape of the neck—anywhere exposed but still close to your hair.
- Pair this with a wide-brimmed hat, scarf, or bandana for extra coverage.
👉 Want to know which oils are non-comedogenic (won’t clog your pores)? Grab the free PDF oil guide here!
Restore After Sun Exposure
So you spent a bit too long under the sun—no worries. These natural treatments help revive dry locs and soothe irritated scalps.
Hydrosol Spritz
Great for: Mild restoration
Use floral hydrosols like lavender, chamomile, or rose. These gentle waters hydrate and help repair UV-damaged hair without the need to dilute like essential oils.
Just pour into a spray bottle and mist over your locs.
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Great for: Sealing hair cuticles, reducing frizz
What you need:
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 10–15 drops of lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix and pour into a spray bottle.
- After washing your locs, spray the mixture over damp hair, especially the ends.
- Let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Witch Hazel & Aloe Scalp Soother
Great for: Sunburned or dry scalp
What you need:
- ½ cup witch hazel
- ½ cup aloe vera gel
- 10 drops of lavender essential oil
- 1 teaspoon jojoba oil
Instructions:
- Combine and pour into a pointed-tip bottle or spray bottle.
- Apply directly to your scalp, massage gently, and let it air dry.
Cucumber Juice Relief
Great for: Cooling and healing sunburn
What you need:
- 1 cucumber, peeled and juiced
- 2 teaspoons water
- Optional: 1–2 drops of jojoba oil (for extra moisture)
Instructions:
- Juice the cucumber (use a blender + cheesecloth if you don’t have a juicer).
- Boil the juice in a stainless steel pot, skim off any foam, and refrigerate.
- When needed, mix 1 tsp cucumber juice with 2 tsp water and apply to the scalp.
- Massage gently and let air dry. Use up to twice a day.
Herbal Scalp Tonic
Great for: Deep scalp healing
What you need:
- 1 tablespoon each: dried lavender, chamomile, mullein, and calendula
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup aloe vera gel
- 1 teaspoon jojoba oil
Instructions:
- Boil the water, pour over herbs, and steep covered for 15 minutes.
- Strain and mix with aloe and oil.
- Pour into a spray bottle and apply to your scalp. Let it air dry.
Download the recipes!
Please fill out the form to receive the download link in your inbox.
Why Use Natural Ingredients?
Using natural ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, essential oils, and hydrosols gives your locs the love they deserve, without the buildup or harsh chemicals. These treatments are:
✅ Easy to make
✅ Affordable
✅ Gentle on hair and scalp
✅ Customizable for your hair’s needs
Final Thoughts
Your locs deserve to thrive—even in the summer sun. With a little prep before and some love after sun exposure, you can keep your locs looking healthy, hydrated, and strong.
Want to save these recipes? Be sure to download the free PDF guide above. It includes step-by-step instructions and oil suggestions tailored for locs and scalp care.
If you found this helpful, share it with a fellow loc lover.
Stay radiant and keep rocking your beautiful locs. 🧡
