I Finally Found a Scalp Sunscreen That Doesn't Give Me Greasy Hair
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Robyn Gmyrek emphasizes the importance of shielding your scalp all summer long. 'Unless you are wearing a hat, it's one of the most sun-exposed areas, especially if you have thinning hair. UV radiation can lead to sunburn, DNA damage, and skin cancers, which can be more aggressive when they occur on the scalp.' Fortunately, today's top formulas are lightweight, non-greasy, and designed to work with every hair type and texture. From clear mists that disappear on contact to loose powders that double as dry shampoos, these products protect your part without disrupting your 'do—or leaving behind a sticky residue.
Whether you're sporting a shaggy bob, slicked-back bun, box braids, or beachy waves, applying sunscreen to your scalp is essential to preventing painful burns, itchy dandruff, and serious sun damage. To find the formulas that rival your favorite sun hats and head scarves, we've tested dozens of products, tapped dermatologists, and scanned customer reviews. Below, shop the best scalp sunscreens on the market.
Although technically designed to set makeup, the Supergoop! 100% Mineral (Re)setting Powder works just as well (if not better) for scalp protection. 'It's easy to apply to the part or along the scalp because it is a powder formulation,' says Dr. Gmyrek. Plus, it has SPF 35 and absorbs oil, so your scalp stays protected and never greasy. Even better, it comes in four translucent shades.
Sun protection: SPF 35
Type: Powder
Sephora rating: 3.9/5An ELLE editor says: 'I love dry shampoo just as much as I love SPF. This product is amazing at keeping my hair feeling clean and fresh without any white cast, all while protecting my scalp from UV damage. The compact brush packaging also makes on-the-go application a breeze.'—Emma Aerin Becker, associate beauty e-commerce writer
This lightweight, non-greasy scalp spray is packed with SPF 30, along with cica and monoi oil to help maintain healthy-looking hair. It's designed to both protect your scalp from burning and keep your hair color from fading.
Sun protection: SPF 30
Type: Mist
Nordstrom rating: 4.3/5
Our expert says: 'The Coola Scalp & Hair Mist is a lightweight mist that is never greasy and has added antioxidants. It's ideal because it is easy to apply over larger areas of the scalp.'—Dr. Gmyrek
If you're looking for ultra-high SPF in just a quick swipe, Shiseido has you covered with its Clear Sunscreen Stick. The completely clear formula and slim design make this powerful sunscreen ideal for gliding straight down your part.
Sun protection: 50+
Type: StickNordstrom rating: 4.7/5
An ELLE editor says: 'If I know I'm spending hours under the sun, I'm triple-checking I have the Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick in my bag. It couldn't be easier to apply down the part of my high ponytail—just swipe and go. With SPF 50+ and 80 minutes of water resistance, I never have to worry.'—Emma Aerin Becker
The Sun Bum Scalp & Hair Mist dries down so fast, you won't even remember spraying it. Lightweight and non-greasy, this mist is infused with vitamin E, aloe, and antioxidants to nourish the scalp while protecting it from sun damage.
Type: MistAmazon rating: 4.5/5
An Amazon reviewer says: 'I love this sunscreen spray! It goes on easily, protects my scalp from the sun, smells great, and doesn't make my hair oily.'
This ultra-fine powder contains SPF 50 and boasts a sheer, matte finish—perfect for brushing onto the scalp. The 100 percent mineral sunscreen also doubles as a silky-smooth translucent powder for on-the-go makeup touch-ups.
Sun protection: SPF 50
Dermstore rating: 4/5
A Dermstore reviewer says: 'Love this powder! I love how it has SPF 50. It's great for touch-ups in the summer!'
Infused with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, the Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield ensures your scalp is not only protected, but nourished with every application. It comes in four shades, is water- and sweat-resistant, and is safe for sensitive skin.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5
An Amazon reviewer says: 'This powder sunscreen is very convenient for reapplying sun protection throughout the day, especially if you wear makeup. I like that it's lightweight and doesn't feel heavy on the skin. It's great for sensitive skin, and the SPF 50 provides solid coverage against the sun's rays. Plus, the brush design makes it easy to use anytime.'
The only thing more important than applying SPF is being able to reapply it easily. The Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Translucent Sunscreen Powder is small enough to toss in your purse, so you're always prepared to protect your scalp.
Type: PowderAmazon rating: 4.1/5
An Amazon reviewer says: 'This powder sunscreen is a game-changer for quick SPF reapplication. The brush is super soft and the powder goes on sheer—no white cast or buildup. I also use it on my scalp to protect my part from getting sunburned, and it doesn't make my hair look oily. So easy to toss in my bag for daily sun protection!'
According to Dr. Gmyrek, how you apply sunscreen to your scalp depends on your hair type. For bald or closely-shaved heads, "use a lotion, stick, or spray sunscreen as you would on your face—apply generously and reapply every 2 hours.' If you're targeting part lines or thinning hair, you can press or [apply] a powder, lotion, mist, or cream directly onto the part and gently blend it in. Finally, when it comes to hairlines and temples, 'a stick sunscreen gives good control and is easy to apply without mess.'
Dr. Robyn Gmyrek is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Emma Aerin Becker interviewed a dermatologist and tested different formulas to find the best scalp sunscreens.
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