While we carefully apply sunscreen to our faces, arms and legs, one area is often overlooked: the scalp. Yet it is just as vulnerable to sunburn as the rest of your body. And even more so, because sunburn on the scalp can not only be uncomfortable and painful, but can also cause long-term damage and, of course, increase the risk of skin cancer.
Contents:
1. Tips for preventing sunburn on the scalp
2. SOS tips for sunburn on the scalp
3. What to do if the scalp is already peeling?
4. Is sunburn on the scalp bad?
With these three simple tips, you can also protect your scalp from harmful UV rays and avoid sunburn in the future.
Tip 1: Hat and headgear – the best and easiest solution
The simplest and most effective way to protect your scalp from the sun is to wear a hat. Whether it's a hat or a cap, the hat not only protects your face and eyes from the intense sun, but also completely shields your scalp. Incidentally, your hair is also protected from UV rays.
Tip 2: Hairstyle without parting – hair as natural protection
Did you know that your hair offers protection from the sun? As long as it is long and full, of course! :) However, if you wear a part, the scalp is unprotected in that area and particularly vulnerable to sunburn. So a simple solution is to choose your hairstyle so that there is no part. If you still like to wear your hair down, try to style it so that the scalp is exposed as little as possible.
Tip 3: Put sunscreen in your hair – Yes, it works!
Another tip to protect your scalp: sunscreen. Yes, you read that right! Apply sunscreen generously to the crown of your head and other exposed areas. Don't forget to reapply, especially after swimming or sweating heavily on particularly hot days.
What if it’s already too late – our SOS tips for sunburn on the scalp!
Oh dear – your scalp is burned and now the skin under your hair is burning and very red? Then…
- Cool your head! It's best to do this with a wet towel. This will ease the pain and cool down your scalp a little.
- Use an after-sun on the affected areas! Right now, your skin needs a lot of moisture and cooling. Our After Sunshine Body Lotion nourishes and regenerates your sun-stressed skin and provides sufficient moisture.
- Drink enough! Your skin has lost a lot of fluid due to the sunburn. To compensate for the loss, you should now drink a lot of water regularly. This will also support the skin's regeneration process. Good to know: every adult should drink 2-3 liters of fluid every day.
- Avoid blow-drying your hair! Avoid blow-drying your hair with hot air to avoid further irritating your skin.
- Get out of the sun! Stay out of the sun for the next few days and protect your head with a hat.
What to do if the scalp is already peeling?
We know the procedure – once the redness of the skin has subsided, it begins to peel. This is an important healing process that you can support:- Don't itch - even if it's difficult! Scratching can damage healthy areas of skin. It's best to let the skin heal in peace.
- Less is more! Avoid hair care products such as scalp scrubs and styling products to avoid further irritating your skin.
- Gentle care! Use a mild shampoo to protect your skin, such as our med wash gel . Your skin can benefit from the mild formula of skin-soothing bisabolol and moisture-preserving betaine.
Is sunburn on the scalp bad?
You should avoid sunburn at all costs, as any sunburn can increase the risk of skin cancer. The top layer of the scalp can also dry out due to overstimulation by UV rays. The result: the hair roots are supplied with fewer nutrients and this can lead to hair loss. If this is the case, you should urgently see a doctor. If you have headaches, nausea and dizziness, you should also check whether you have suffered from what is known as sunstroke.
OUR EXPERT
Dr. med Michaela Hagemann I boep founder, doctor & mother of three
