All you need to know about scalp sunscreen

• Like SPF for all areas of the body, scalp sunscreens help to shield the area from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Without adequate protection, it can lead to burning of the scalp making it inflamed, itchy and flaky.
• Repeatedly burning your scalp can put you at a higher risk of developing skin cancer, so it’s important to make scalp care part of your daily SPF routine.
• Scalp sunscreen is especially essential for those that are bald or have thin hair/sparse areas on the scalp that aren’t protected by hair.
• It’s vital to wear scalp SPF if you know you are going to be in the direct sun and wearing a hat isn’t an option.
• Some scalp sunscreens double as hair sunscreens, meaning that you can shield your scalp whilst protecting your hair from becoming dry and brittle from UV rays.

Like any other sunscreen, it’s best to opt for a broad-spectrum scalp sunscreen (factor 30 or above) as it will provide protection from both UVA and UVB rays. In terms of formula, there are lots of scalp sunscreens entering the market that are specifically designed with your scalp in mind. If you’re worried about your hair becoming oily, do not fear! Scalp sunscreens are now available in powder, spray and even mousse formulations to give a ‘barely there’ appearance on your scalp.

1. Part your hair where it naturally falls and apply a liberal amount of scalp sunscreen all the way down your parting. Take time to rub or pat it in to ensure that it is evenly distributed.
   
2. Don’t forget to apply SPF in any sparse areas or bald patches that aren’t protected by hair.
   
3. Apply scalp SPF along your hairline and massage it in.
   
4. If your scalp sunscreen doubles up as a hair SPF, apply a liberal coating all over your hair to prevent it from drying out.
   
5. Remember to reapply at least every two hours (or more frequently if you are in and out of the pool/sweating heavily).