While we carefully apply sunscreen to our faces, arms, and legs, one area is often overlooked: the scalp. Yet, it is just as susceptible to sunburn as the rest of your body. What's more, sunburn on the scalp can not only be uncomfortable and painful but also cause long-term damage and, of course, increase the risk of skin cancer.
Contents:
1. Tips to prevent 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 serious?
With these three simple tips, you can protect your scalp from harmful UV rays and prevent future sunburn.
Tip 1: Hats and headwear – the best and simplest solution
The easiest and most effective way to protect your scalp from the sun is to wear a head covering. Whether it's a hat or a cap, headwear not only protects your face and eyes from intense sun but also completely shields your scalp. As an added bonus, your hair is also protected from UV rays.
Tip 2: Hairstyle without a part – hair as natural protection
Did you know that your hair offers protection from the sun? Provided it has a certain length and fullness, of course! :) However, if you wear a part, the scalp in that area is unprotected and particularly susceptible to sunburn. A simple solution is to choose a hairstyle that doesn't create a part. If you still like to wear your hair down, try to style it in a way that exposes as little of your scalp as possible.
Tip 3: Sunscreen in your hair – Yes, you can!
Another tip to protect your scalp: sunscreen. Yes, you read that right! Apply sunscreen generously to your part and other exposed areas. Remember to reapply, especially after swimming or increased sweating on particularly hot days.
What if it's already too late – our SOS tips for sunburn on the scalp!
Oh dear – scalp is already burned and now the skin under your hair is burning and severely reddened? Then…
- Cool your head! Ideally with a wet towel. This will relieve the pain and cool your scalp a bit.
- Use an after-sun product on affected areas! Especially now, your skin needs a lot of moisture and cooling. Our After Sunshine Lotion nourishes and regenerates your sun-stressed skin and provides sufficient moisture.
- Drink plenty of fluids! Your skin has lost a lot of fluid due to sunburn. To compensate for the loss, you should drink plenty of water regularly. This also supports the skin's regeneration process. Good to know: Every adult should consume 2-3 liters of fluid daily.
- Avoid blow-drying! Do not blow-dry your hair with hot air to avoid irritating your skin further.
- Stay out of the sun! For the next few days, stay out of the sun and protect your head with headwear.
What to do if the scalp is already peeling?
We know the drill – once the redness subsides, the skin starts to peel. This is an important healing process that you can support:
- Don't itch – even if it's difficult! By scratching, you can injure healthy skin areas. It's best to let the skin heal in peace.
- Less is more! Avoid hair care products like scalp exfoliants and styling products to avoid further irritating your skin.
- Mild care! Use a mild shampoo to protect the skin, like our med wash gel. The skin can benefit from the mild formula with skin-soothing bisabolol and moisturizing betaine.
Is sunburn on the scalp serious?
You should always avoid sunburn, as every sunburn can increase the risk of skin cancer. In addition, the outermost layer of the scalp can dry out due to overstimulation by UV rays. The consequence: The hair roots are supplied with fewer nutrients, which can lead to hair loss. If this should be the case, you should urgently consult a doctor. Also, in case of headaches, nausea, and dizziness, you should clarify whether you have suffered from sunstroke.
O U R E X P E R T
Dr. med Michaela Hagemann I boep founder, doctor & 3-time mom
