10 best scalp sunscreens, according to experts and beauty editors
Dermatologists say the top of your head definitely requires one of the best scalp sunscreens – no ifs, ands, or buts. Despite the fact that nobody likes the sound of ruining a fresh blowout. Thankfully, there are a fair few formulas around these days that'll get the job done, without leaving you with greasy-looking roots. Phew.
Hopefully, you already diligently apply body suncream, face SPF, and even a protective lip balm. So, it shouldn't feel like too much additional effort to also add some kind of scalp sunscreen into the mix.
Women are essentially bald at their hair partings, says Zaineb H. Makhzoumi, MD, a director of clinical services and head of dermatologic surgery and oncology at University of Maryland Medical Center. What's more, we tend to part our hair in the same manner, leaving the area exposed to the damaging and cancer-inducing UV rays of the sun over and over again. So basically, applying SPF on the scalp with a focus on the part is not a step to be skipped. “Since most women don’t like greasy, messy lotions and creams in their hair, I typically recommend using a powder-based or spray sunscreen,” she says.
Ready to protect your scalp this summer? To help you find the best scalp sunscreens that fit the bill — you know, the ones that’ll preserve you blowdry but still give you that SPF you need — we tapped up a handful of board-certified dermatologists for their recommendations. Plus, we've also added a few of our own personal faves into the mix, too.
SKIP TO: Should you put sunscreen on your scalp? | What is the best sunscreen for scalp and hair? | How often should you apply a scalp sunscreen? | Can you get skin cancer from a scalp sunburn? | How to put sunscreen on the scalp without making hair greasy?
Meet the experts
| Zaineb H. Makhzoumi | Director of clinical services and head of dermatologic surgery and oncology at University of Maryland Medical Center. |
| Dr. Nora | Cosmetic & medical dermatology doctor at Rejuvenation Clinic. |
How we test:
To bring you the very best hair SPFs, we’ve spoken to dermatologists, doctors, and hair experts about what really works when it comes to protecting your scalp and strands from UV damage. Then, we put those recommendations to the test – trying most products IRL. We’re talking sweaty tube rides, outdoor workouts and pub garden catch-ups to see how these SPF’s really perform. We look for formulas that are easy to apply, don’t leave hair greasy or weighed down, and provide real protection without a sticky, chalky finish. Only the ones that pass every check make it into this list.
Ahead, shop GLAMOUR's edit of the best sunscreens for hair and scalp, tested and reviewed.
Although this sunscreen mist has been primarily designed with the face in mind, reviewers seem to find it a great formula to use on the scalp as well. As well as providing a high level of protection, it's infused with nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, vitamin C, bisabolol, and aloe vera leaf extract — so it'll definitely provide some much-needed relief to dry and prickly scalps. However, that does mean it's the kind of formula best reserved for days when you're embracing a slick-back hairstyle…
Type: Mist / Size: 75ml. / SPF: 50 / Active ingredients: Vitamin E, bisabolol, aloe vera.
- What we love: Moisturising; no white cast; high SPF.
- What could improve: Quite expensive; Not specifically for the scalp.
If you’ve browsed any of our sunscreen content before, you'll already know that we’re big fans of Supergoop! — and dermatologists are too. Rosanne Paul, DO, assistant professor of dermatology at Case Western Reserve University, recommends the brand’s Poof Part Powder for scalps, “specifically for bald men, patients with thinning hair, the part line of the scalp for men and women, and the frontal hairline for all.”
Glamour editor Jessica Radloff has long reached for this sun-care product too. “I normally am really good about applying an SPF protectant spray on my scalp when I’m out in the sun, but it leaves my hair super sticky and straw-like,” she says. “Poof is life-changing, because it basically goes on like baby powder to deliver SPF 30 and hair that feels refreshed.” Just note: You may have to massage it into your hairline for it to totally disappear.
Type: Powder / Size: 0.71 oz. / SPF: 35 / Active ingredients: Zinc oxide
- What we love: Non-greasy; mineral-based; bigger bottle than some other containers.
- What could improve: May have to rub it in to fully disappear.
Prefer a stick? We love the convenience of stick sunscreens too, and Dr. Brauer says this one is about as good as it gets. “This product comes as a glide stick to cover your scalp easily,” he says. It’s also great for people who are outside for long periods of time, he adds, noting the water-resistant formulation has an SPF of 50+. “It doesn't leave a white cast the way some other scalp sunscreen products do,” he adds.
“One of the biggest draws of Shiseido sunscreens is the light citrus scent,” says Earley. “And yes, I can attest this stick really does glide on like butter but, thankfully, doesn’t leave any greasiness behind.”
Type: Stick / Size: 0.7 oz. / SPF: 50+ / Active ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
- What we love: Clear formula; goes on smooth; high SPF; nice citrus scent.
- What could improve: May not be suitable for sensitive skin, since it contains fragrances.
Designed for the face and scalp, this transparent mist is perfect for applying on top of make-up — so it's a 2-in-1 must-have to bring along in your handbag on sunny days out. It's hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formula makes it a great pick for sensitive skin types, and it's been enriched with the brand's clever InfraGuard® complex — which protects against UVA and UVB rays.
Type: Mist / Size: 75ml. / SPF: 50 / Active ingredients: InfraGuard®.
- What we love: Completely clear formula; non-sticky; sensitive skin friendly.
- What could improve: Nothing of note …
This lightweight defensive mist works as an invisible screen that protects the hair from sun exposure for up to sixteen hours. Enriched with natural ingredients, the sun damage reducing UVA/UVB filters are derived from wintergreen and cinnamon bark oils, while an invigorating antioxidant blend of green tea extract, certified organic sunflower seed oil, and vitamin E helps protect against free radicals. And to make sure you're left with truly silky strands, certified organic shea butter, coconut and palm oils have even been thrown in to help with detangling.
Type: Mist / Size: 100ml. / SPF: Doesn't say / Active ingredients: UVA/UVB filters, Vitamin E.
- What we love: Mostly natural ingredients; smells great; amazing reviews.
- What could improve: Quite expensive.
More than just a body sunscreen, this invisible spray doubles as a secret weapon for protecting your hair and scalp from UV damage. The ultra-mist forms a sheer, weightless barrier over your parting and lengths, shielding against both UVA and UVB rays - without that dreaded greasy feel. It’s no wonder why it’s one of Dr. Nora’s favourites.
The clear formula dries down almost instantly, so hair stays fresh and airy (no crunch, no slicked-back look.) It’s a simple way to defend against sun-induced dryness, colour fade, and scalp burn, especially if you’re spending the day outdoors. Plus it’s water-resistant, making it a beach bag essential.
Type: Spray / Size: 200ml / SPF: 50+ / Active ingredients: Mexoryl XL, Mexoryl SX, Glycerin.
- What we love: Invisible finish; doesn’t weigh hair down; protects scalp and strands.
- What could improve: Large bottle, isn’t the most practical for on-the-go top-ups.
Whether you’re looking to score something more affordable or forgot to pack your fave sunscreen, you'll likely be able to pick this Hawaiian Tropic one up from your high-street Boots. This brush-on formula is similar to those of more luxe brands — the powder is housed in a mini brush (perfect for your purse) that twists up for easy application. You can use it on your scalp, your face, or any other part of your body for matte sun protection that won’t leave your hair or skin feeling slick.
“One of the things I like most about this sunscreen is that it has the same nostalgic smell as the brand’s other products,” says Earley. “I’m also very sensitive to that chalky feeling some powdered products can leave behind. This one doesn’t give me that ick factor, because what it leaves behind is actually quite smooth.”
Type: Powder / Size: 0.15 oz. / SPF: 30 / Active ingredients: Zinc oxide
- What we love: Mineral formula; matte finish; budget-friendly.
- What could improve: Only one shade available.
Photo courtesy of Glamour tester Brigitt Earley.
Coola offers a sunscreen that works overtime, not only protecting your scalp from those UVA and UVB rays but also boosting hair health. The antioxidant-rich formula, recommended by Dr. Palm, helps lock in colour and strengthen damaged hair. It also contains panthenol, a hydrating ingredient that helps prevent breakage and boost shine, as well as monoi oil, a natural UV hair protector. And how could we forget: SPF 30.
Users say the product works especially well on thicker hair but may leave finer strands a bit greasy if you’re too heavy-handed. You can apply the product to your hands first, if you’re worried.
Type: Mist / Size: 2 oz. / SPF: 30 / Active ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
- What we love: Hydrates hair and protects the scalp simultaneously; water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- What could improve: May be too greasy for finer hair.
When it comes to the scalp, dermatologists overwhelmingly recommend powder formulas — and for good reason. “If you’re concerned about scalp sunscreen making your hair look greasy or goopy, you’re more likely to skip this step,” says Melanie Palm, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at Art of Skin MD. “I encourage patients to look for a formula that is lightweight and easy to use, which usually comes in the form of a spray or a powder instead of a cream or lotion.” This is one of her top picks for that very reason—plus, you can use it on the rest of your body just as you would any other mineral sunscreen.
“Dermatologists often recommend this sunscreen for oily skin, because it can actually help with excess shine, almost like a dry shampoo,” says Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley. “It even comes in a few different shades to suit skin and hair colour. I love how portable this one is too. You just remove the cap and twist the brush to apply.”
Type: Powder / Size: 0.21 oz. / SPF: 50 / Active ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide
- What we love: Non-greasy; mineral formula; high SPF; comes in a variety of shades.
- What could improve: Expensive — especially given the size.
A cross between UV protection and hair product, Sun Bum’s spray is lightweight and has a very easy application process, says Jeremy Brauer, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Spectrum Skin and Laser in Purchase, New York. “It contains a high SPF along with vitamin E, which can help strengthen hair and increase shine for all hair types,” he says.
Glamour editors like that the formula has sea salt to lend texture, delivering those covetable beachy waves, but also boasts sea kelp, a moisturising ingredient that helps prevent any crunch. “It looks like it could be a powder, but it’s actually an entirely clear spray,” says Earley. “I love that it dries almost as soon as it hits the scalp, so there’s no downtime and no greasy residue.”
Type: Spray / Size: 2 oz. / SPF: 30 / Active ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene.
- What we love: Applies like hairspray; offers hair benefits; entirely clear formula.
- What could improve: Feels slightly tacky.
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:
- Coola Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30 – invisible, non-greasy, and hair-friendly
- Supergoop Poof SPF 35 – a dry shampoo-style powder with added sun protection
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Spray SPF 50+ – ultralight, easy to apply, and suitable for the scalp
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.
