Your hair sunscreen FAQ’s, answered:

Should you put sunscreen on your scalp?

“You should protect your scalp all throughout the year,” says Dr. Brauer. “While it is often forgotten, when unprotected, the scalp is consistently exposed to the sun, and persistent exposure can result in sunburn, sun damage, and possibly skin cancer.”

What is the best sunscreen for scalp and hair?

There are many products, like many of those above, that are designed specifically with the scalp in mind. But if you don’t have access to scalp sunscreen, regular sunscreen also works, says Dr. Brauer. “When choosing a scalp sunscreen, it is important to look for a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protective product with an SPF 30 or higher,” he says. It’s also a good idea to limit sun exposure and seek shade, particularly during peak afternoon hours, and wear a hat for additional coverage, he adds. Don’t forget to reapply throughout the day too.

When asking Dr Nora, Cosmetic & medical dermatology doctor at Rejuvenation Clinic for her top scalp sunscreen picks, she said: Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that’s labelled safe for scalp or hair use. A few great options include:

⁠How often should you apply a scalp sunscreen?

Skincare expert Dr. Nora said: “Reapply every two hours when outdoors, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Since reapplying on hair can be tricky, pairing SPF with a physical barrier like a wide-brimmed hat or cap offers extra protection when you’re on the go.”

⁠Can you get skin cancer from a scalp sunburn?

“Yes – scalp sunburns can increase your risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. The scalp is often overlooked but especially prone to UV damage in people with thinning hair or bald spots. Chronic sun exposure here can also lead to actinic keratoses—precancerous patches that feel rough, scaly, or sandpapery, and may appear red, pink, or flesh-toned. They’re particularly common on the scalps of balding men, and if left untreated, can progress into squamous cell carcinoma. So yes, SPF on the scalp is a must.” – Dr Nora.

How to put sunscreen on the scalp without making hair greasy?

We’re all for scalp protection, but anything that’s going to leave our freshly washed locks filled with grease is a BIG no no. To avoid repeating hair wash day, Dr Nora said: “Go for lightweight, non-greasy formulations specifically designed for the scalp. Sprays, mists, and powder-based SPFs work well—they absorb quickly without leaving the hair heavy or oily. If you have a visible parting, using a stick sunscreen directly on the exposed skin is another great option to avoid product buildup on the strands.”

This story originally appeared on GLAMOUR US.