Updated 07/23/24. Did you know that the scalp is one of the most overlooked areas for sun protection? This would certainly explain why it’s a common place for skin cancer. Particularly for those with light blonde hair, the transparency of the hair itself, particularly when worn in a part, can cause sunburns. I had plenty of scalp sunburns in my childhood. So here are four helpful tips for protecting your scalp from the sun– plus three more for when you do experience scalp sunburn.
How to Prevent Sunburn on Scalp
An itchy, hot, irritated scalp is no fun for anyone. So what can you do to avoid this?
1. Wear a hat
Sun-protective clothing should be your first defense against sun exposure (yes, even before sunscreen!). When it comes to protective hats, be sure to pick out one with a wide brim that goes all the way around your head and extends out far enough to give you good coverage. Even better, seek out hats with a high UPF rating (like Wallaroo) to really protect the delicate skin on your face and neck.
2. Avoid parting your hair
Having a part, whether on the side or in the middle, can create a long, exposed area of the scalp, making it very susceptible to sunburns. So pulling your hair all the way back and not letting a part show through can make a big difference.
3. Apply sunscreen to exposed scalp
If you wear a part in your hair, then you will want to apply sunscreen to that area by simply spraying down the part area. Don’t want to get your scalp greasy and disrupt your hair? Sprinkle in an SPF-infused mineral powder, which usually has a minimum SPF 20 (be sure to get one to match your hair color!). I personally enjoy using the ColoreScience line of mineral powders.
4. Stay in the shade
Obviously, this is the most fool-proof way to protect the scalp! Avoiding sun exposure entirely is the best way to keep the delicate skin on your scalp safe from damaging sunburns.
How to Treat Scalp Sunburn
If it’s too late for protection and the damage has been done, here are a few ways to make the recovery process a little less painful.
1. Apply aloe vera
Renowned for its cooling and soothing properties, this will help to reduce redness and promote a faster recovery.
2. Use a cool compress
A cool (not cold) compress will help alleviate pain and reduce any swelling or inflammation. Use for 15-20 minutes several times a day.
3. Avoid further irritation
I recommend avoiding shampoo and conditioner for at least 24 hours following a scalp sunburn. Afterward, make sure to use a gentle, lightweight formula (without sulfates or dimethicone) to avoid trapping heat into the skin or causing further irritation. Also, be sure to shower in cool or lukewarm water, as hot water will only increase inflammation.
Sunburns of the scalp can be very painful, so don’t neglect this area when spending time outdoors.
Celebrity Esthetician & Skincare Expert
As an esthetician trained in cosmetic chemistry, Renée Rouleau has spent 30 years researching skin, educating her audience, and building an award-winning line of products. Her hands-on experience as an esthetician and trusted skin care expert has created a real-world solution — products that are formulated for nine different types of skin so your face will get exactly what it needs to look and feel its best. Trusted by celebrities, editors, bloggers, and skincare obsessives around the globe, her vast real-world knowledge and constant research are why Marie Claire calls her “the most passionate skin practitioner we know.”
Comments:
There’s a great product by MoniMay, Inc. called Hair Shadz which protects the scalp with spf 15, is a dry shampoo, and blends your roots. It comes in 10 colors for people who color their hair. And for kids and if you don’t color, the clear shade is Sun Shadz. It’s all natural. Whole Foods has it. The creator’s mother died from melanoma of the scalp. It’s an awesome product.
Posted By: skinny mogul |
I got a sunburn on my part on Mother’s Day! And a tiny bit on my forehead where the part started. I kind of thought it was funny. Luckily it didn’t peel!
Posted By: Teresa |