11 Best Scalp Sunscreens For Protection, As Per A Hairstylist – 2023
Head outdoors worry-free and enjoy your summer days wearing these scalp-protecting formulas.
Simon ConstantinouHairstylist
Expertise: Hairdressing
Experience: 56 years
Simon Constantinou is an accomplished hairstylist with over five decades of experience. He is the proprietor of an award-winning hair and beauty salon, renowned for its comfortable ambiance and a team of innovative hairdressers and beautici... more
Expertise: Skin & Hair Care
Experience: 3 years
Kirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after re... more
Shiboli ChakrabortiCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce edito... more
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Have you ever thought of putting sunscreen on your hair and scalp? Probably not! While applying sunscreen on your face, hands, body, and toes protects your skin from ultraviolet rays; the best scalp sunscreen does the same thing for your scalp! Scalp sunblocks are made from specific ingredients to protect you from both UVA/ UVB rays, making them safer to use. Available as creams, serums, oil, or sprays, its easy application makes it a hot favorite even on sunny afternoons! Along with that, they also provide you with a stronger, shinier, and healthier scalp. These scalp sunscreens are formulated with dermatologist-recommended ingredients and can be applied along the parting line or directly on an exposed scalp to provide restorative care and protection. Since the scalp and face are the parts that are most exposed to the sun, finding the right scalp sunscreen is essential. That’s why we have curated a list of the top scalp sunscreen to give your scalp all the nourishment and love! You can scroll down for more information!
In This Article
Top 11 Best Sunscreens For Scalp And Hair – Reviews Of 2023
1. Best Color-Safe Formula:Sun Bum Heat Protector Spray
Image: Sun Bum Want a lightweight sunscreen for your hair and scalp? Get this spray that will protect your beautiful locks against the sun and other heat styling tools. Also, it will decrease blow-drying time and safeguard your scalp and hair from any thermal damage or breakage. Suitable for all hair types, this aromatic sunscreen spray is infused with several natural ingredients like giant sea kelp extract that softens and strengthens your strands with shine and moisture, and vitamin c-rich noni fruit extract that removes impurities from your scalp. It is great for use in a humid climate as it will keep your hair frizz-free, hydrated, and healthy while keeping your scalp nourished. Reviewers love its fragrance and the way it leaves the hair soft and shiny even after heat styling.
Pros
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Hair color-safe
- Not tested on animals
- Free of sulfate, paraben, and phthalate
Cons
- Hair might feel slightly greasy
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 346 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
2. Best Fast-Drying Formula:Banana Boat Hair & Scalp Defense Sunscreen Spray
Get this SPF 30 spray for your hair and scalp to provide ultra-lightweight yet intense protection against harmful UV rays. Now, you do not have to worry about stepping out during sunny days as this sunscreen spray will keep your tresses safe with its effective broad spectrum protection feature. It won’t weigh your hair down or leave it feeling slick. Also, this scalp-friendly spray can be applied to dry or wet hair and is free of chemicals like octinoxate or oxybenzone. This easy-to-apply sunscreen should be used 15 minutes before you go out, and remember to reapply every two hours for long-lasting results.
Pros
- Fast-drying
- Reef-safe
- Won’t dry out hair
- Non-greasy sunscreen spray
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
Cons
- May leave some residue
3. Best Water-Resistant Formula:COOLA Organic Scalp & Hair Sunscreen Mist
Image: Coola Looking for a water-resistant sunscreen for your hair? Try this scalp and hair mist that will provide protection against sun exposure with its 70%+ certified organic ingredients. It comes with broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection to prevent your scalp from sunburns and your hair from being damaged. With natural ocean-salted sage fragrance, this sunscreen spray does not leave any oily residue on your hair after application. This vegan hair product is formulated with panthenol, gotu kola extract, and monoi oil, and does not contain gluten, paraben, and GMO. Multiple reviewers highly recommend this for fine hair as it does not make it appear greasy.
Pros
- Color-safe
- Cruelty-free
- Lightweight
- Reef-friendly
- Rich in antioxidants
Cons
- May not be travel-friendly
"This product lasted me all summer, providing great protection for myself. It helped ease my recurring scalp burns. The product applies easily and spreads evenly on my scalp. I love that it does not make my hair greasy. It’s my trustworthy summer companion."
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 2,210 great reviews on Amazon.
4. Best Reef-Safe Formula:Healium aiHr Hairspray With Sunscreen
Image: Healium Opt for this buildable spray that is perfect for fine and thin hair types. Leaving no residue behind, this sunscreen for thinning hair will protect your scalp and hair against destructive UV rays without making your tresses sticky or greasy. This water-soluble formula works great in humid conditions as well. It is formulated with hydrolyzed silk that provides luminous shine to your hair from roots to tips and aloe vera that helps reduce your hair’s ability to pull in moisture from the air, leaving you with silky, smooth, and healthy strands. This lightweight sunscreen spray comes with a non-drying feature that provides nourishment to frizzy hair and makes brushing your hair effortless. Reviews on Amazon suggest that this lightweight spray provides a flexible hold without being sticky.
Pros
- Reef-safe
- Soothing fragrance
- Color and keratin-safe
- Not tested on animals
- Free of sulfate and paraben
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive scalp
"It holds well without building up or making my thick hair sticky. It helps make my comb-outs fuss-free and it doesn't leave my hair brittle. It might be a tad strong for some but I personally found it serves well for sun protection during sports."
5. Best Lightweight Formula:AVEDA Sun Care Protective Hair Veil
Image: Aveda Want an invisible sun protective product for hair? Then, this UV defense mist for scalp and hair will impress you! This sunscreen spray for hair and scalp protects dry and damaged hair from sun exposure and makes it healthy without leaving any residue. With a three-part defense and recovery system, this sunscreen mist is hugely effective when you have to spend hours under the sun, exposing your scalp and hair to the possibility of burns and damage. Its UVA/UVB filters are created from nourishing ingredients like cinnamon bark oils and wintergreen extract that prevent your tresses from drying due to harmful UV rays. Start off by spraying a small amount of this product and then layer it as needed without saturating your hair.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Cruelty-free
- Water-resistant
- Safe sunscreen for color-treated hair
- Suitable for all hair types
Cons
- Hair might feel greasy
Caution6. Best For Everyday Use:Cremo Clear Sunscreen For Scalp And Hair
On the hunt for a sunscreen for your oily scalp? Try this dry sunscreen formula that stays dry making even the oiliest scalp clean and non-greasy. You can apply it directly onto your hair without ruining your hairstyle, as no residue will be left behind. With UVA/UVB broad-spectrum, this serum’s SPF 30 feature protects your tresses and scalp from damage, leaving you with strong, silky, and voluminous hair. This shine-free formula helps remove impurities and dirt from your scalp while moisturizing and protecting your strands. Multiple reviewers report that this sunscreen leaves no residue. However, be sure to conduct a patch test before use if you have a sensitive scalp.
Pros
- Odorless
- Affordable
- For everyday use
- Ultra-lightweight
- Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
Cons
- May not be ideal for sensitive scalp
"It does not weigh down my hair or leave it greasy. It stayed put and prevented burns. Even after use, my hairstyle remained unaffected which is a great thing. I love that washing it off is easy as well with my regular shampoo."
7. Best Formula With SPF:Calypso Scalp Protection
Image: Calypso If you are looking for a scalp protector to easily fit into your pocket then The Calypso Scalp Protection is your ideal pick. It is specially formulated to offer instant protection to the scalp and hair. You can directly spray this on your hair and scalp with ease. It comes with SPF 30 and is fortified with quality ingredients to offer protection from UVA and UVB rays. Sun damage can lead to brittle, frizzy, and discolored hair. So, use this lightweight spray to keep your locks healthy and lustrous. This dermatologically tested spray should be a part of your daily routine.
Pros
- Vegan
- Quick dry
- Easy to use
- Water-resistant
- Dermatologically-tested
Cons
- May feel greasy
"The spray helped protect my scalp from sunburn. The product mists easily on my hair without leaving it overly greasy, which is a bonus. I love its light fragrance which lingers in my hair throughout the day. Overall, a useful product."
8. Best Sweat-Resistant Formula:Clarins SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray
Image: Clarins Protect your scalp and hair from the drying effects of the sun with this SPF 30 dry oil spray that is made using natural and organic ingredients. This formula contains Indonesian Nyamplung oil, senna, plane tree, aloe vera, gold cob, and sycamore extracts that keep your hair healthy and strong, fight free radicals, soften and soothe strands along with providing nourishment to your scalp. Though this spray is formulated with various oils, it will not make your tresses oily. Your hair will be oil-free and non-greasy, with no residue left behind.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
- Water-resistant
- Sweat-resistant
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Expensive
9. Best Non-Sticky Formula:Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Spray
Go out on a sunny day without worrying about sunburn with this sunscreen spray that protects your scalp and hair from UV rays. This broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen is a multi-environment defense system that provides active protection from hair damage. So, even if the climate is humid, this spray will work efficiently, leaving you with healthier and softer tresses. Also, this spray nourishes your scalp and helps get rid of impurities and dirt. Many users on Amazon have written reviews praising the sunscreen for covering and protecting the entire face and body from sun damage.
Pros
- Non-sticky
- Easy to use
- Non-comedogenic
- Water-resistant (80 minutes)
- Dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested
Cons
- Might have an unpleasant smell
10. Best Scent:Suntique I’m Hair Sun & Treatment
Try this sunscreen for your hair and scalp to experience 3-in-1 benefits, including UV protection, nutrition and gloss, and prevention of hair loss. This product protects your scalp and hair from harmful sun rays so that you enjoy your outdoor activities worry-free. It also treats damaged hair and provides it shine and nutrition, adding life to dull hair. And it prevents hair loss without causing any further damage. Formulated with 90% natural ingredients, this sunscreen spray is a blend of argan oil, sunflower seed oil, and keratin complex that helps lock in moisture and prevents your tresses from drying because of UV rays.
Pros
- Color-safe
- Non-sticky
- Value for money
- Light, refreshing floral fragrance
- Prevents colored hair from fading
Cons
- May not be long-lasting
11. Best Anti-Frizzy Formula:Soleil Shield Protection Finishing Spray
Image: Soleit Protect your damaged and color-treated hair from the UV rays with the Soleil Shield Protection Finishing Spray. It is infused with botanical extracts that add shine to your hair, strengthen your dry and sun-damaged hair, and make them manageable. This protection spray is packed with the goodness of natural plant-based ingredients like green tea, jojoba protein, and rosemary extract that coats each strand with a protective layer for overall hair health.
Pros
- Reduces frizz
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
None
"It successfully prolongs the vibrant hues of my hair, unlike other UV protective products. It keeps my hair soft and shiny, without leaving any greasy residues. A great find!"
Before you make a decision, take a look at a few points that will help you choose the right sunscreen.
Buying Guide
How To Choose Sunscreen For Scalp And Hair
- The right sunscreen for scalp and hair should have a high SPF number. It should be more than 15.
- Try to go for all-natural or organic sunscreens with nourishing ingredients. They will minimize the possibility of an allergic reaction.
- Your hair product should not contain sulfate and paraben as avoiding these ingredients prevents hair damage and breakage.
- Choose a long-lasting sunscreen that can provide extra protection from sun, dirt, or any environmental changes for a longer period.
- Pick a sunscreen that is water and sweat-resistant. This ensures the product stays on your scalp and hair even in humidity.
- If you have dry, brittle, and rough hair, consider using a sunscreen protective lotion that moisturizes your tresses and scalp too.
How To Use Sunscreen For Scalp And Hair
Step 1: Blow-dry your hair after hair wash.
Step 2: Apply or spray a sufficient amount of the product onto your hair and scalp 15 minutes before sun exposure.
Step 3: If it is a spray, apply it evenly from roots to tips by keeping it at a distance. Also, it is best to apply the sunscreen to your hairline and any thinning or balding spots.
Step 4: Reapply the sunscreen every 2 hours for better results.
Infographic: Scalp Sunscreen: How To Choose And What Ingredients To Look For
Scalp sunscreen may not be as popular as body sunscreen, but it is equally important in protecting our scalp and hair from UV damage. The scalp is highly exposed to the sun when we are out and about, which can cause severe damage to the hair and scalp skin. Check the infographic below to know how to choose the right scalp sunscreen and what ingredients you should look for. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.
Download Infographic
The Bottom Line
Besides your face, hands, and body, applying sunscreen on your hair and scalp is equally important. Nowadays, most skin care and hair products offer UV protection to make your life easy on a sultry, sunny day. However, sunburn can damage your tresses, causing dryness and brittleness, and that is why you need the best scalp sunscreens to prevent burns. The Sun Bum Heat Protector Spray acts as a heat protectant and the COOLA Organic Scalp & Hair Sunscreen Mist does not leave behind any oily residue. The Calypso Scalp Protection adds shine to hair and keeps them healthy. These listed products are free from harsh chemicals which makes them a safe choice. Quick tip, do not forget to reapply these sunscreens every two hours for the best results.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
Kirtana Divakar is passionate about finding the best hair care products for her readers. She carried the same enthusiasm to collate this list of best sunscreens for scalp and hair. She put this list together after carefully considering the product’s UV protection capacity, ingredient list, and non-greasy formulations. She has also studied many customer reviews to list the pros and cons of each product. A buying guide is also included to help you choose the best product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can hair grow on a burnt scalp?
Generally, a sunburnt scalp does not cause hair loss. However, you might lose some hair when the skin peels off, but rest assured hair will regrow.
Can we use regular sunscreen on our scalp?
No. Only if it is mentioned on the sunscreen bottle that it can be used for hair and scalp, you should use it on your scalp.
How can I protect my scalp from the sun?
Use scalp sunscreens, wear caps and scarves, and apply nourishing oils to protect your scalp from the sun.
Is there such a thing as hair sunscreen?
Yes, like facial sunscreen, hair sunscreens are designed specially to protect your scalp from harmful sun rays. You need SPF for scalp care as it keeps your hair and scalp unaffected by UV rays that can suck away hair moisture.
Is scalp sunscreen necessary?
Scalp sunscreen is necessary because the scalp is still exposed to UV radiation, which can cause sunburn or skin cancer.
Can the scalp get sunburned through hair?
Yes. Although your hair shields most of your scalp from damaging UV rays, the hairline and break line is exposed.
Why does my scalp sunburn so easily?
Your scalp gets sunburned easily due to overexposure to the sun and lack of scalp protection.
Does coconut oil protect the hair from the sun?
Yes, coconut oil protects the hair from the sun and helps keep it healthy and vibrant when exposed to the sun for an extended period.
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