Derms Say You Need to Apply Sunscreen to Your Scalp Every Single Day

An important note on sunscreen safety: The FDA is currently proposing big changes to sunscreen regulations, and only physical sunscreens with the active ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are currently recognized as safe. Until they reach a more robust conclusion in late 2020, the FDA advises, “Americans should continue to use sunscreen with other sun protective measures as this important rule-making effort moves forward.” Our GH Beauty Lab experts agree, and test a range of formulas (both mineral and chemical) that protect against sunburn.

By now, you know the drill: Before you leave the house, you should coat yourself in sunscreen (SPF 30, at least). But even if you religiously slather your body in SPF from head to toe and reapply often, you still might be missing a key area: Your scalp. At the top of your head and facing directly up at the sun, your scalp is especially prone to sunburns and UV damage, which is why about 10% of melanomas occur on the scalp, according to Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist practicing in New York City and a spokesperson for The Skin Cancer Foundation.

It can be difficult to detect skin cancer on the scalp, so it's especially important to protect it. "As you get older and your hair starts to thin, that's when you become a little bit more susceptible because you don't have as much natural protection of the scalp," says Sophia Reid, MD, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology.

What you need to know about scalp sunscreen

Before you douse your head in sunscreen (or even get shopping), here's whats important to keep in mind:

• What's the best formulation? Dr. Reid advises looking for a mineral-based sunscreen, if possible. Plus, "when applying SPF to the scalp, look for oil-free and water resistant," recommends Dr. Engelman. "This will limit the sunscreen running, especially into your eyes."
• How do you apply scalp sunscreen? You don't have to coat your strands in SPF — just apply it to your part, any thinning or balding spots, and around your hairline, according to Dr. Engelman.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab tests all kinds of sunscreens continually (from zinc oxide sunscreen to sunscreen for sensitive skin to face sunscreens and more) for efficaciousness, texture, residue, and more. While we haven't formally tested scalp sunscreen in our Lab, our experts do know what goes into a great SPF. There are plenty of sunscreen options that are formulated either with the scalp in mind or with ingredients that won't interfere with your hair.

Does your hair need SPF too?

Just like hair can get damaged from bleach or hot tools, your hair can also get damaged from the sun. "The sun dehydrates hair, leaving it brittle and prone to split ends," says Meri Kate O'Connor, senior colorist and educator at Eva Scrivo Salon in New York City. "UV exposure can break down the hair strands weakening them, leading to more breakage and shedding," says Dr. Engelman.

While your hair isn't getting sunburned like your skin would, it still feels the negative effects of the sun. "When those cuticles are open, that's when you see the split ends, the frayed hair," says Dr. Reid. "All of that UV damage can also affect the quality and the strength of your hair."

To protect your scalp and mane, here are the top-reviewed and dermatologist-recommended products that offer your scalp some extra protection through that beachy hairstyle for your next day in the sun: