If your sunscreen application this summer has gone no further than your forehead, you’ve been missing a trick. Sunscreen for your scalp and strands may seem superfluous, but it is not an expendable skincare step. According to skin experts, it is imperative.
“Your scalp is an extension of the facial skin,” Dr Sturnham says. “In the same way that UV rays can damage your skin cells and accelerate skin ageing on the face, we know that it can also harm your scalp and hair follicles.” This damage most commonly appears as sunburn, but there are lesser-known consequences of sun lounging without adequate scalp protection.
What are the risks of not using sun protection on your hair and scalp? Do you need sunscreen for your hair and scalp? “ Sunscreen is absolutely necessary for the scalp,” says Shaw, a skincare educator at Australian SPF brand Mecca. Those with bald spots or lighter hair should take note: in her expert opinion, it is especially important on “areas that are not naturally protected by dense or highly pigmented hair” like the hairline and partings. “I recommend applying a lightweight sunscreen to both the face and hair line and of course wearing a hat.
” To help you find the best sun protection for your hair, we tested several sunscreens in search of formulas that are pleasant, effective and convenient to use. Of course, you could apply your existing sunscreen to your hairline and scalp and still reap the benefits. But in our edit below you’ll find elegant formulas specifically well suited to the delicate skin on the scalp.
From grease-free finds that don’t cause build-up or disturb your hair styling, to expert and editor favourites, only the best formulas made our list. Ahead, the scalp sunscreens to stock up on before your next getaway..
