There’s nothing more frustrating than being supremely diligent about sunscreen application during warmer months and summer holidays, then returning home to find you’ve managed to get a nasty sunburn.
Finding the perfect sunscreen for your skin type is no simple task. That means putting in the research and consulting dermatologists before stepping out in high UV conditions.
While many of us have mastered the art of slathering sunscreen in those highly specific, delicate spots – decolletage, under the arms and on the tip of the nose – there’s one oft-forgotten area which is arguably one of the most important to consider: the scalp.
According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, men and women with thinning hair and bald spots are more vulnerable to sun exposure, which can lead to precancers and skin cancers. It’s an especially vulnerable area when it comes to sunburn, and it can be difficult to keep an eye on potentially harmful moles and marks underneath a full head of hair – even with thinning.
The more diligent about scalp sun care you are, the better.
If you’re in the market for scalp-specific sunscreen, chances are you already know a fair bit about sun protection and the different types of sunscreens. We’re nevertheless going to provide a quick refresher.
What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?
Sunscreens, which are also known as UV filters, are split into two different categories. Skincare brand CeraVe provides a handy distinction with the help of board-certified dermatologist Dr Sejal Shah.
- Mineral: also referred to as physical sunscreens, mineral sun protection forms a physical barrier to help reflect UVA and UVB rays. The main active ingredients in mineral sunscreens are zinc oxide and titanium oxide. They tend to be gentler on the skin and work well for those with eczema and dry skin. Mineral sunscreens are also broadly non-comedogenic.
- Chemical: these sunscreens absorb UVA and UVB rays, converting them into non-damaging heat through a chemical reaction. The heat is then released from the skin. The main active ingredients in chemical sunscreens are oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate.
A great general rule to follow is that if it works well for your face, it will likely work for your scalp. It’s also worth noting that if you opt for a chemical sunscreen which contains silicones, you’ll need to wash it out with a powerful clarifying shampoo, as common silicones such as octocrylene are not water-soluble.
What’s the difference between UVA and UVB?
Around 95 per cent of the UV rays which reach the earth are UVA rays. UVB rays make up the other 5 per cent and are slightly more damaging than UVA rays. This is because they have a shorter wavelength and can damage the outer layer of the skin, causing sunburn. Always opt for a sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB. A handy tip is to think of UV-A for ageing and UV-B for buring.
We’ve curated a selection of the best broad-spectrum, non-greasy sunscreens for your scalp. Keep scrolling for supreme protection.
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Supergoop! (Re)Setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF30 - Translucent
- Sunscreen type: mineral
- Level of protection: broad-spectrum SPF30
Supergoop! sunscreens have achieved cult status within the beauty world, offering pore-perfecting, non-comedogenic solutions to sun protection since their launch back in 2007. Founded by Holly Thaggard, the brand has always been at the forefront of innovative sun care solutions, so it’s no wonder that they’ve thought up this brilliant 100 per cent mineral powder SPF for the scalp.
The entirely invisible formula can be used over makeup to re-set your look and re-mattify the skin after hours in the sun, while delivering SPF30 protection. We love applying a dusting to our scalp and hairline for supreme protection without a greasy finish.
Buy now £29.00, Cult Beauty
BRUSH ON BLOCK - SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen
- Sunscreen type: mineral
- Level of protection: broad-spectrum SPF30
If synthetic sunblocks have caused your skin to break out in the past, opt for a lightweight, chemical-free alternative like this mineral powder from Brush on Block. As the name suggests, it takes a whole different approach to the application, resembling a bronzer brush over a traditional lotion or spray.
Apply seamlessly onto the skin with a translucent finish. The formula is not greasy and won’t leave a residue behind. It also makes it easier than ever to reapply - removing sandy or dirty hands from the equation. It’s also, of course, perfect for the scalp.
Buy now £39.00, Dermacare Direct
Coola Daily Protect Scalp Mist SPF30 60ml
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Level of protection: broad-spectrum SPF30
Containing 70 per cent organic ingredients, this chemical sunscreen mists the hair and scalp without leaving a sticky or greasy residue. The delightfully ocean-scented spray helps to defend against the harmful effects of UV which can also cause hair colour to fade.
Vegan, Hawaii Ref Compliant and dermatologist tested, Coola provides up to 80 minutes worth of water resistance before reapplication is needed.
Buy now £23.20, Boots
Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF 50+ Reapplication Mist 75ml
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Level of protection: broad-spectrum SPF 50+
This chic, sleek reapplication mist is technically for spritzing high-quality sun protection all over the face while on the move – but it also works fabulously on the scalp.
With highly nourishing additional ingredients including vitamin E, niacinamide, vitamin C, bisabolol and aloe vera leaf extract, you can be sure that your scalp will be hydrated and protected all summer long.
Buy now £32.00, Cult Beauty
Ultrasun SPF50 UV Face & Scalp Mist, Clear, 75ml
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Level of protection: broad-spectrum SPF50
New to Ultrasun’s cult-favourite, Swiss-made range is the invisible SPF50 Face & Scalp mist. Suitable for use before and after applying makeup and brilliant for the hairline and scalp, it contains InfraGuard, which is an antioxidant complex formulated from organic sunflower shoots and tara trees that inhibit light-induced skin ageing. It’s fragrance-free, water-resistant and leaves the skin feeling fresh.
Buy now £18.00, Amazon
Malibu Sun Clear Hair and Scalp Protector Spray, SPF 50
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Level of protection: broad-spectrum SPF50
Don’t be fooled by the surprisingly low price tag of Malibu’s hair and scalp protector, for it has been dermatologically tested and contains powerful active ingredients. Vitamin-rich and kind to skin, Malibu’s formula is water-resistant to help keep your scalp protected for longer – making it a perfect option for avid swimmers, surfers and water sports enthusiasts.
Simply apply generously to the parting and the scalp approximately 30 minutes before going outside and reapply frequently.
Buy now £4.99, Amazon
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Spray SPF 50+ 200ml
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Level of protection: broad-spectrum SPF50
Providing broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB and infrared radiation, La Roche Posay is a fan-favourite among sunscreen experts for a reason. This lightweight formula is booted with thermal spring water to improve hydration and prevent the sunscreen from feeling sticky and waxy. It absorbs with ease and doesn’t leave a chalky cast.
Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, it’s a must-have for dry and sensitive skin types.
Buy now £19.12, lookfantastic
Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance Free Face Sunscreen Mist
- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Level of protection: broad-spectrum SPF50+
Bondi Sands may be best-known for its fake tan offering but the Australian-born label has turned its knowledge of safe sunning into protective SPF products. This mist contains SPF50+ with broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays but while the formulations of old had a way of drying out your skin, this works to up the hydration levels for up to 72 hours. It’s also non-greasy and vegan.
Buy now £7.00, Amazon
