While the desire to protect your hair from the sun may mostly come from a desire to keep your hair shiny and manageable, it’s important to note that our scalp requires more hefty protection from the sun. A sunburnt scalp may sound strange to some, but the top of your head is actually one of the most prone areas on your body to get burned by the sun’s harmful UV rays. Plus, it may be the last area you’re thinking about during the day, so it’s important to keep it protected.
Why you should protect your scalp from the sun
Protecting your scalp from the sun is crucial for several reasons, ranging from preventing immediate discomfort to reducing long-term health risks. Here are the primary reasons why you should take steps to shield your scalp from harmful UV rays:
1. Prevent sunburns
The scalp, particularly the part lines and areas with thinning hair, is highly susceptible to sunburn. Sunburn on the scalp can cause redness, pain, peeling, and even blistering. Severe sunburns can lead to more serious conditions like sun poisoning. Wearing a hat, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and seeking shade can help prevent sunburn.
2. Reduce the risk of skin cancer
The scalp is exposed to direct sunlight, making it a common site for skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Skin cancer can develop on the scalp, sometimes going unnoticed due to hair coverage. Regular sun exposure without protection increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Regularly applying sunscreen to exposed scalp areas, wearing protective hats, and avoiding peak sun hours can reduce the risk of skin cancer.
3. Prevent hair damage
Prolonged sun exposure can damage hair follicles and the hair shaft. UV rays can weaken hair, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Over time, this can lead to thinning hair and a loss of natural luster. Wearing a hat, using hair products with UV filters, and limiting sun exposure can help protect hair from damage.
4. Maintain scalp health
The skin on the scalp is sensitive and can be adversely affected by prolonged sun exposure. Sun exposure can lead to dryness, flakiness, and irritation of the scalp. It can exacerbate conditions like dandruff and psoriasis. Using gentle hair care products, keeping the scalp moisturized, and protecting it from the sun can help maintain a healthy scalp.
5. Support healing after hair restoration procedures
After hair restoration procedures like FUE or FUT hair transplants, the scalp is particularly vulnerable. Exposure to the sun can interfere with the healing process, increase inflammation, and potentially damage newly transplanted hair follicles. Following post-procedure care instructions, which typically include avoiding sun exposure, wearing a hat, and using sunscreen, is essential for optimal healing and results.
Can I use sunscreen on my scalp?
Yes, you can use sunscreen on your scalp for sun protection. In fact, it’s highly recommended to do so. As your scalp area is part of your skin, you’ll want to apply a regular SPF product that actually prevents cell damage from UV rays. Lotion or spray sunscreens work perfectly for SPF protection on your head.
If you’re applying a spray hair sunscreen anyway, you can apply it on your scalp as well — it won’t do any harm. But you don’t want to solely depend on hair sunscreen to protect your scalp. There are specific sprays or balms you can get that can protect your scalp but leave your hair less chalky or oily. You can also try mineral or powder sunscreen, too.
How to apply hair sunscreen
Hair sunscreen usually comes in a spray bottle you can apply after styling or brushing your hair. It’s easy to apply and can be used similarly to how you apply styling spray or hairspray.
Here’s how to apply your hair sunscreen before going out in the sun:
- Start with clean, dry hair. You can either apply the hair sunscreen before or after styling it.
- Shake the bottle well before using it to make sure the product is well-mixed.
- Hold the bottle about six inches away from your hair and spray evenly across your hair. Focus extra time on the top of your head (where your hair splits into a part). This is where your hair is most exposed to direct sunlight.
- Use your fingers or a comb to distribute the product throughout your hair, covering all areas.
- Let the hair sunscreen dry completely before going outside.
Other ways to protect your hair
Whether you’re using hair sunscreen or not, covering your head during hot and sunny days is your best line of defense against the sun’s rays.
You can also protect your hair from sun damage by:
- Wear a hat or other head protection. Choose wide-brimmed hats or caps that provide full coverage to protect your scalp from direct sun exposure. You can also wrap a scarf around your hair or use an umbrella for extra protection.
- Avoid peak sun hours. Whenever possible, stay in the shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Going out early or late in the day helps protect you against the strongest UV rays.
- Protect your hair when swimming. If you swim in a chlorinated pool, wear a swim cap or put your hair up in a high bun to keep your hair dry. If you get your hair wet, make sure you rinse the pool water — which contains chemicals like chlorine — out of your hair with clear water.
Summer is a favorite season for many, and there’s a lot to enjoy. Don’t let the sun’s rays put a damper on your fun. The next time you’re out in the sun, don’t forget to shield your hair, too. Especially if your hair has gone through previous heat and styling damage, adding an extra layer of protection through hair sunscreen can help prevent additional breakage.