We’re all pros at slathering on sunscreen for our faces and shoulders, but what about your scalp? That poor, sunbathing patch of skin is often forgotten, hosting its own little rooftop BBQ without protection. While you wouldn’t let your nose burn, your scalp needs some care too. So, do you really need to rub sunscreen into your hair? Experts say yes—but don’t worry, there are alternatives!
From UV-protectant sprays to stylish hats, there’s more than one way to shield your scalp from the sun’s rays and keep both your skin and hair healthy.
Dr. Kalyani Deshmukh, a consultant dermatologist, emphasises that sun protection for the scalp is just as important as it is for the face and body, particularly for those with thinning hair or bald spots. According to her, “The scalp is susceptible to sunburn, much like other parts of the skin, and frequent sun exposure without protection can increase the risk of skin cancer.”
For individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors, using sunscreens designed specifically for the scalp or opting for UV-protectant hair sprays is highly recommended.
However, Dr. Retina Rajan, CEO of CHOSEN, holds a different perspective for those with fuller hair. “If you have hair that covers the scalp, sunscreen is unnecessary. In fact, applying sunscreen to hair roots in thinning areas may lead to hair loss due to the ingredients in sunscreen,” she says. Instead, she advises wearing a hat or using a scarf to protect the scalp and hair from UV rays. According to her, certain chemicals in sunscreens can trigger conditions like frontal fibrosing alopecia, where hair follicles are damaged, leading to progressive hair loss.
The ingredients in traditional sunscreens are often designed for skin but may not be suitable for the delicate scalp. Sunscreens containing alcohol, fragrances, or certain chemical UV filters like oxybenzone can lead to scalp irritation, dryness and even allergic reactions. As Dr. Deshmukh points out, “While the risks of using sunscreen on the scalp are relatively low compared to the risk of sunburn, some individuals may experience discomfort or sensitivity.” More alarming, Dr. Rajan raises concerns about the potential link between sunscreen and hair loss. “There is data suggesting that women who applied sunscreen to their scalp experienced hair loss, which improved after discontinuing its use,” she explains. The chemicals in sunscreen, particularly nano-minerals and older chemical filters, can lead to inflammation, causing scarring and damage to hair follicles over time.
Dr. Sravya C. Tipirneni, a dermatologist/cosm at Manipal Hospitals, agrees that certain sunscreen ingredients, such as retinyl palmitate and parabens, can cause scalp irritation and may even lead to hair damage. “Traditional sunscreens can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness, while also potentially clogging hair follicles, contributing to scalp irritation,” she warns.
For those concerned about the potential drawbacks of using sunscreen on their scalp, several alternatives exist. Dermatologists universally recommend physical barriers like hats and scarves as the most effective protection. “Wearing a wide-brimmed hat or a scarf is a simple and reliable method to protect the scalp from UV exposure, without the need to apply products directly to the scalp,” says Dr. Deshmukh.
For those who prefer not to wear a hat, UV-protectant hair sprays and hair care products with SPF are also viable options. These products can provide additional protection for the hair while avoiding the greasy residue or irritation that traditional sunscreens may cause. “Hair care products with built-in UV filters, such as shampoos and conditioners, can help shield the hair from the sun’s harmful rays without affecting the scalp,” suggests Dr. Tipirneni.
While sun damage to the scalp may not be as common as it is on the face or body, it can still occur, especially in individuals with thinning hair or bald spots. Signs of sun damage on the scalp include redness, peeling, and tenderness. In more severe cases, the scalp may feel sore, and hair breakage could occur due to weakened hair shafts. To care for a sun-damaged scalp, it is essential to soothe and hydrate the affected area. “Using products that contain aloe vera or hyaluronic acid can help calm irritation and moisturise the scalp,” advises Dr. Deshmukh. Cooling compresses and over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can also help relieve itching and inflammation. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a dermatologist is crucial to prevent further damage.
The conversation surrounding sun protection for the scalp is complex, with differing opinions from dermatologists on whether sunscreen is necessary or potentially harmful. While traditional sunscreens may pose risks such as irritation and even hair loss, alternative methods like wearing hats or using UV-protectant sprays offer effective and safer protection for both the scalp and hair.
Ultimately, the best course of action depends on individual factors such as hair thickness, sun exposure, and personal sensitivity to sunscreen ingredients. Integrating sun protection into your daily routine, whether through physical barriers or scalp-friendly products, can help prevent long-term damage and maintain overall scalp and hair health.
As Dr. Rajan wisely notes, “For most people with fuller hair, applying sunscreen to the scalp is unnecessary, let your hair do the job of protecting you from the sun.”
