Sunscreen for your face? Always. Sunscreen for your body? Of course. But what about sunscreen for your hair and scalp? Most people don’t even think about it! While we’re all obsessed with slathering SPF on our skin, our poor scalps and hair are left to roast under the sun. The result? Sunburned scalps, brittle strands, and dull hair that looks like it’s been through a desert storm.
Here's why your hair requires just as much sun protection as your skin—and how you can protect it without having a greasy mess.
1. Scalp sunburn hurts (and peels!)
Ever had that burning sensation on your scalp after a long day in the sun? This is precisely because your scalp, like your skin, can be damaged by UV. It can get burned by the sun if it has no protection, causing dryness, irritation, and peeling. Yes, peeling.
The fix: If you are out in the sun, wear a hat, cap or scarf. Basically, cover and protect your hair. The other option is to use light, non-greasy hair oils that have natural UV protection like coconut or argan oil. They form a protective layer against damage and nourish your scalp.
2. The sun is a moisture robber
The sun not only harms your scalp but also dries up your hair as well. UV rays take the natural proteins from your hair, leaving it dehydrated, frizzy, and more susceptible to breakage. And if you’ve got colour-treated hair, expect your shade to fade faster than a summer fling.
The fix: Use shampoos, conditioners and hair masques that have keratin or hydrolysed proteins in them to strengthen your hair and lock in moisture. A leave-in conditioner with UV protection is also a miracle at keeping locks moisturised and healthy.
3. Split ends & brittle strands
Sun exposure also weakens the hair shaft and makes it more prone to breakage and split ends. Therefore, if you're a fan of beach outings but despise dry, strawy hair in the aftermath, whatever is causing that is excessive exposure to the UV rays of the sun. And don't even mention me about chlorine and saltwater—just fueling the fire.
The fix: Masks with intense oils like argan and avocado restore sun damage. Oil treatments every week also regain lost shine and strength.
4. UV rays can age your hair too
Just as your hair, your scalp ages as well. Long sun exposure accelerates premature greying by destroying melanin in your locks. Blame it on the UV sun rays if you are noticing way more greys than normal suddenly after summer.
The fix: Serums or hair oils full of antioxidants might help fight back against oxidative stress. A vitamin B12, C, and E-rich diet also nourishes your hair internally.
5. Hair SPF ? It's a thing!
Indeed, hair SPF does exist! Light hair mists, sprays, and serums comes handy to shield your locks from the sun. It's like sunscreen but without the greasy and sticky mess.
The fix: Look for SPF-infused hair products or use natural UV-protective ingredients like aloe vera, rosemary oil, and green tea extracts. Little effort can go a long way to save your hair from the wrath of the sun.
Protect your hair like you do your skin
You have mastered the art of skincare, but now it is time to give our hair the same attention and care. Sun can damage your scalp and hair and they need just as much protection and repair as your skin. Whether it’s through protective oils, keratin-rich shampoos, or simply wearing a hat, small changes can keep your hair looking its best.
Vaibhav Mittal, Founder – Karmic Beauty