Summer is one of my favorite seasons. The world moves at a more relaxed pace, the sunshine lifts my mood instantly, and I try to spend every possible moment outside. But there’s one downside that can ruin my summer joy—a sunburned scalp. No matter how careful I am with sunscreen, I always seem to forget my part, leaving me with an uncomfortable burn from June through September.
This year, I’m determined to avoid that pain, and a good scalp sunscreen is my solution. The best options should be lightweight, non-greasy, and easy to apply. To find the top picks, I spoke with dermatologists and gathered their expert recommendations.
### Vogue’s Top Scalp Sunscreens:
– Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Scalp & Hair Mist – $17
– Coola Scalp & Hair Mist Organic SPF 30 – $28
– Colorescience Sunforgettable Sport Stick SPF 50 – $39
– Vacation Super Stick SPF 45 Face Stick – $20
– Supergoop! 100% Mineral Part Powder – $34
– Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 – $32
– Oars + Alps Face & Scalp Mist SPF 35 – $30
### FAQs:
– Does scalp sunscreen work? Yes, when applied correctly.
– Do I really need it? Absolutely—your scalp is just as vulnerable as the rest of your skin.
– What should I look for? Lightweight, non-greasy formulas that are easy to apply.
– Other ways to protect my scalp? Hats, UV-protective hair products, and staying in the shade.
### Top Picks:
#### 1. Sun Bum Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30
Why we love it: Dermatologist-approved, easy spray application, and water-resistant.
Key ingredients: Sunflower seed oil
Type: Chemical spray
#### 2. Coola Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30
Why we love it: Lightweight, great for color-treated hair, and water-resistant.
Key ingredients: Gotu kola, panthenol, monoi oil
Type: Chemical spray
#### 3. Colorescience Sunforgettable Sport Stick SPF 50
Why we love it: Zinc-based but blends in clear, perfect for targeted application.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide
Type: Mineral stick
#### 4. Vacation Super Stick SPF 45
Why we love it: Easy to apply, non-greasy, and packed with soothing ingredients like vitamin E and aloe.
Key ingredients: White tea, vitamin E, algae
Type: Chemical stick
#### 5. Supergoop! Mineral Part Powder
Why we love it: A brush-on powder that’s great for touch-ups and doesn’t leave residue.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide
Type: Mineral powder
With these options, I’m confident I can enjoy summer without the dreaded scalp sunburn. Whether you prefer sprays, sticks, or powders, there’s a sunscreen here to keep your scalp protected all season long.Here’s a more natural and fluent version of your text while keeping the meaning intact:
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Similar to dry shampoo, Dr. Moy recommends this sunscreen as a great mineral powder option. It’s made with 100% zinc, is completely translucent, and works for all hair types.
Key Details:
– Key Ingredient: Zinc
– Type: Mineral
– SPF: 35
– Form: Powder
– Size: 0.7 oz
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### Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Price: $32 (available at Nordstrom, Amazon, Sephora)
Why We Love It:
Dr. Moy loves this sunscreen stick because it doubles as a hair tamer or gel while providing sun protection. It goes on clear without leaving buildup or residue, making it perfect for applying along the part or other exposed areas of the scalp.
Key Details:
– Key Ingredients: Licorice root, SynchroShield Technology
– Type: Chemical
– SPF: 50
– Form: Stick
– Size: 0.7 oz
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### Oars + Alps Face and Scalp Mist SPF 35
Price: $32 (Amazon)
Why We Love It:
This lightweight, non-greasy mist is easy to apply and protects your face, scalp, ears, and neck. It also nourishes the scalp with antioxidant-rich ingredients like safflower and sunflower seed oils.
Key Details:
– Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, safflower seed oil, sunflower seed oil
– Type: Chemical
– SPF: 35
– Form: Spray
– Size: 1.5 fl oz
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### Everything You Need to Know About Scalp Sunscreen
#### Does scalp sunscreen actually work?
Yes! Dr. Carmen Castilla, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, explains that scalp sunscreen is especially helpful for people with thin hair or visible scalp areas like the part line. However, she notes that for it to work, it must be applied directly to the skin—not just sprayed or rubbed onto the hair.
#### Is it necessary to wear sunscreen on your scalp?
Absolutely. Dr. Moy emphasizes that the scalp is a high-risk area for skin cancer, especially for those with fair skin, light hair, or thinning hair. Dr. Castilla adds that any exposed areas—like a part line or thinning spots—should be protected with sunscreen or sun-protective clothing.
Sunburns on the scalp are surprisingly common because people often forget to apply sunscreen there. Just like the rest of your skin, the scalp is vulnerable to UV damage, so using SPF 30 or higher is recommended.
#### What to Look for in a Scalp Sunscreen
While you can use regular sunscreen on your scalp, products specifically designed for this area are lighter and less greasy. Dr. Castilla recommends sprays, creams, or sticks for targeted protection (like along the part line). Stick sunscreens are especially easy to apply with precision.
Dr. Kobets suggests mineral powder SPF for travel or if you prefer a non-greasy option. A zinc stick is also convenient for on-the-go reapplication.
Ultimately, any sunscreen is better than none—so choose a formula you’ll actually use!
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Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!Choose a sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum” with SPF 30 or higher for the best protection.
How else can you protect your scalp from sunburn?
Dr. Kobets suggests staying in the shade whenever possible, just like with any sun exposure. Wearing a hat—especially a wide-brimmed one—is highly recommended, as it shields your scalp, ears, face, and neck.
Even with a hat, she still advises applying sunscreen to your scalp since hats aren’t always worn consistently. Also, keep in mind: “Straw hats allow sunlight to pass through, so if you have little to no hair and a history of scalp skin cancer or precancerous conditions, a tightly woven cap is a safer choice,” says Dr. Kobets.
Meet the Experts:
– Lauren Moy, MD – Board-certified dermatologist with fellowship training, practicing in Beverly Hills, CA.
– Kseniya Kobets, MD – Board-certified dermatologist and Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore-Einstein Advanced Care in New York City.
– Carmen Castilla, MD – Board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.