If you’ve ever burned your parting, this one’s for you
We all know sunscreen is the ultimate anti-aging essential; it’s probably already sitting front-row in your skincare lineup. But there’s one spot that still gets neglected every summer: your scalp. It’s skin too, and it’s just as vulnerable to UV damage, burns, and premature aging as the rest of your face.
As beauty routines get more holistic, scalp care is finally having its moment. Japanese head spas, scalp serums, and exfoliating brushes are everywhere—proof that people are realizing good hair starts with a healthy scalp. But while serums nourish, only SPF truly protects.
If you’ve ever felt that tell-tale sting of a sunburned parting or noticed your hairline aging faster than the rest of you, it’s time to add one simple step to your routine: scalp sunscreen. It’s the easiest, most underrated way to protect your hair and your confidence all summer long.
Yes, scalp sunscreen is a thing
We promise this isn’t another overhyped beauty step. Scalp sunscreen is exactly what it sounds like—SPF designed specifically for your scalp and hairline. Unlike regular face or body formulas, it’s usually lightweight, non-greasy, and comes as a mist, powder, or foam so it won’t leave your roots sticky or flatten your blowout. It protects exposed areas like your parting, hairline, and crown from UV damage without disrupting your style.
Do you really need to wear scalp sunscreen?
Short answer: yes, especially if you spend time outdoors, have fine or thinning hair, or wear your parting in the same place every day. Your scalp is skin, and UV rays can easily reach it through your hair, causing burns, flaking, premature aging, and in some cases, skin cancer. Sun exposure also weakens hair follicles, leading to dryness, breakage, and color fade over time.
Even cloudy days can expose you to up to 80% of UV radiation, and summer isn’t the only risk season: higher altitudes, snow, and water all reflect sunlight back onto your scalp. If your scalp has ever felt tender after a beach day or hike, that’s UV damage talking. Adding a sunscreen for scalp to your routine is one of the simplest ways to protect both your skin and your strands, no matter the weather.
How to apply scalp sunscreen
The trick with scalp sunscreen is finding the balance between proper coverage and good hair days. Thankfully, the new generation of SPF mists and powders makes it easier than ever. Here’s how to do it right—without sacrificing volume or shine.
Step 1: Choose your formula
If you have thicker hair or prefer a dry finish, go for a mist or spray. These distribute evenly through the roots without leaving residue. For finer hair or oily scalps, a powder formula doubles as dry shampoo while still giving you UV protection.
Step 2: Start with your parting
The part line is your scalp’s most exposed area—and the most likely to burn. Hold your sunscreen for scalp around six inches away and mist directly along the line. Gently massage or comb through with your fingers to spread the product evenly.
Step 3: Cover the hairline and crown
Don’t stop at the part. Tilt your head slightly and spray along your hairline, temples, and crown—anywhere the sun naturally hits. If you’ve got shorter cuts or thinning areas, give them a light sweep too.
Step 4: Reapply regularly
Like facial SPF, scalp sunscreen loses effectiveness after a few hours in the sun. Reapply every two hours, or sooner if you’re swimming, sweating, or wearing a hat that rubs against your scalp. (Yes, UV rays can still sneak through mesh caps and straw hats.)
Step 5: Wash it out at the end of the day
Even the best formulas can build up if left on too long. Use a gentle clarifying shampoo once or twice a week to lift residue and keep your follicles clear.
Step 6: Rebalance with a nourishing serum
After cleansing, seal in moisture with a few drops of a lightweight, oil-based serum like argan, jojoba, or marula. These help soothe the scalp, restore shine, and counteract any dryness from sun exposure or clarifying products. Your hair gets its gloss back, and your scalp stays happy and hydrated.
A few warnings:
Don’t apply traditional face or body sunscreens directly to your scalp, they’re too heavy and can clog follicles. Avoid alcohol-heavy sprays if you’re prone to dryness or dandruff, and steer clear of fragrance if your scalp is sensitive. A good rule of thumb? If it feels fresh, light, and invisible, it’s doing its job.
Best sunscreen for scalp (our top picks)
From luxe hair-care mists to budget-friendly sprays, these picks keep your scalp protected without sacrificing style, texture, or volume. Here are eight favourites worth a place in your summer routine.
COOLA Scalp & Hair Mist Organic Sunscreen SPF 30
This COOLA classic proves SPF can feel like nothing at all. The lightweight, non-greasy mist protects your scalp and hair from UV rays while keeping strands soft and fresh. Ideal for daily wear, beach days, or anyone who refuses to let SPF flatten their blowout.
Ultrasun UV Face & Scalp Mist SPF 50
A multitasking overachiever. This transparent mist works for both face and scalp, offering high-strength SPF 50 protection that doesn’t disturb makeup or hairstyles. Perfect for those with finer hair or more exposed scalps who want invisible, dermatologist-approved coverage with zero stickiness.
Malibu Clear Hair & Scalp Protector SPF 30
An easy win for everyday protection. This affordable, fuss-free sunscreen for scalp sprays on clear and dries fast; ideal for beach bags, holidays, and anyone who values convenience over ritual. A solid choice for quick top-ups without the guilt of wasting expensive product.
Bald Brothers Daily Scalp Sunscreen SPF 50
Made for men (and women) with bald or thinning hair, this SPF 50 lotion offers serious protection without shine or residue. The formula absorbs fast, leaving skin hydrated, not sticky. Think of it as everyday armour for exposed scalps, whether you’re running errands or training outdoors.
Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil
The luxury option. Aveda’s fine-mist veil shields both hair and scalp with UVA/UVB filters derived from natural ingredients. It’s less “sunscreen” and more “sun style insurance”—keeping color vibrant, texture soft, and hair smelling faintly of holiday. Great for anyone who invests in premium hair care.
Schwarzkopf BC Sun Protect Scalp & Hair Mist
Salon-approved sun care for your hairline. This mist protects from UV damage while maintaining hair’s natural shine and smoothness—no crunch or residue to contend with. It’s a favorite among stylists for a reason: it works just as hard as your heat protectant.
Protect the base, and the rest will follow
If you’re already loyal to daily SPF, don’t let your scalp be the exception. A few mists of scalp sunscreen can prevent burns, preserve color, and keep follicles healthy.
For deeper scalp care, nourishment, and expert advice on keeping your hair healthy from root to tip, explore The Lauren Ashtyn Collection. From volumising toppers to nourishing treatments, their specialists know how to protect and perfect every strand—starting at the scalp.
