The 7 Best Scalp and Hair Sunscreens of 2025, Approved by Dermatologists

Face sunscreen has become an essential part of most people’s morning routines for very good reasons. Not only does it protect against harmful UV rays and help to prevent premature wrinkles, but it most vitally reduces the risk of skin cancer. But does that SPF coverage reach the top of your head? If not, scalp sunscreen should be part of your skincare arsenal. “Scalp sunscreen helps protect from UV damage on exposed areas of the scalp that, over time, can contribute not only to discoloration but also increased risk of skin cancer,” Dr. Nkem Ugonabo, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist with advanced fellowship training in cosmetic dermatology and lasers, explains. And while Dr. Ugonabo says that your hair and other accessories, such as wide-brimmed hats or umbrellas, can offer some protection, applying a hair sunscreen or scalp sunscreen is always a safe bet.

To ease any worries about potential hair greasiness, white cast, and other concerns that come with applying a scalp sunscreen, we conducted hours of research and quizzed our expert. Then, we compiled this list of the best scalp sunscreens for all needs—plus we share application tips and helpful suggestions on how to best care for your skin.

Credit: Ulta

What We Like

• Great sun protection

• Easy-to-use applicator

• Summery scent

• Water resistant

Type: Spray | SPF: 30 | Size: 2 oz | Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Whether packing for a tropical vacation or running errands, this scalp sunscreen is a great addition to any daily routine. It has SPF 30, sprays on lightly, and protects your skin and hair from the sun. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. With just a few spritzes, your skin will be covered, and you’ll catch whiffs of a summery-scented breeze throughout the day, too.

Credit: Amazon

Type: Spray | SPF: 70 | Size: 6.5 oz | Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene | Cruelty-Free: No

Looking for great sun protection on a budget? This Neutrogena scalp sunscreen is a lightweight spray that lasts up to 80 minutes in the water (or when sweating) and provides SPF 70 coverage, all for around $10. And it’s not just for your scalp—feel free to spray it on your body and face, too.

Credit: Ulta

Type: Spray | SPF: 50 | Size: 2.2 oz | Key Ingredients: Bisabolol, aloe, cucumber, caffeine, banana, coconut, shea oil, maracuja oil, green tea, vitamin E, algae, and ferulic acid | Cruelty-Free: Yes

What makes the sunscreen from Vacation so special is that it goes on translucently, as it’s typically used as a makeup setting spray. The vegan formula is lightweight and smells divine. The easy-to-apply spritz is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and can be used as a sunscreen for the face, scalp, and hair.

Credit: Sephora

What We Like

• Absorbs quickly without leaving hair greasy

• Pleasant scent

• Lightweight, even spritzes

Type: Spray | SPF: 30 | Size: 2 oz | Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Protecting your scalp from the sun is so important, but it shouldn’t result in greasy locks. With this pick from Coola, you don’t have to worry. It absorbs quickly and doesn’t weigh down the hair. Additionally, the ocean, salted, and sage scent will have people asking what perfume you’re wearing.

Credit: Sephora

Type: Stick | SPF: 50 | Size: 0.7 oz | Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene | Cruelty-Free: No

One benefit of a sunscreen stick is that you’re more in control of the application, and with this Shiseido product, that’s the case. The SPF 50 sunscreen glides onto your part or any bald patches without leaving a white cast. If you’re a fan of a slicked-back bun or pony, this product is great for achieving a flawless look, too. Even better: The brand says it’s best for outdoor activities and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Senior Editor Lauren Pardee swears by this product, too. She recommends applying a little more than you think you need since you can’t see how much is on your skin.

Credit: Amazon

Type: Powder | SPF: 30 | Size: 0.15 oz | Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Mineral scalp sunscreens are a popular choice thanks to their non-chemical formulas, which can be a great option for people with sensitive skin (although your derm will know what’s best for you!). So, it only made sense to include this mineral-based powder sunscreen in our roundup. Several reviewers said they used it on their heads or hairline, and it didn’t leave their hair feeling greasy—it left a matte finish. And the light tropical scent is just a bonus.

Credit: Oars + Alps

Type: Spray | SPF: 35 | Size: 1.5 oz | Key Ingredients: Sunflower oil, safflower oil, caffeine, aloe leaf juice, tea leaf extract, and cucumber seed oil | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Finding scalp and hair sunscreen that delivers multiple benefits at once is a must for those on the go. This spray sunscreen protects both areas without making your skin or hair look greasy. It’s easy to apply and likely refreshing on a hot summer day. The aloe and cucumber help your skin feel hydrated, while the caffeine decreases any inflammation.

What to Look for in a Scalp Sunscreen

• SPF: Dr. Ugonabo recommends choosing a scalp sunscreen (and general sunscreen!) with an SPF of 30 or higher. Regardless of the level you select, it’s important to reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re swimming or sweating heavily. 
• Type: Whether you choose a powder, spray, or stick scalp sunscreen comes down to your personal preference. “I generally recommend saving sprays and sticks for reapplication as they can be hard to apply evenly,” Dr. Ugonabo explains.
• Coverage: Dr. Ugonabo recommends looking for broad-spectrum scalp sunscreens, which protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays. UVB causes skin burning, whereas UVA causes photoaging, including wrinkles, loss of collagen, and promotes the formation of brown spots (lentigos) on the skin.

FAQ

• “I recommend this for people who have areas of their scalp exposed, specifically those with hair loss/alopecia, as they will have more sun exposure over time, which can result in not only sun damage but potentially increased risk of skin cancer,” Dr. Ugonabo shares.

• It’s always important to see a doctor if you’re concerned, but Dr. Ugonabo shared some things to look for when checking for sun damage. “Sun damage on the scalp may appear as new growths that can be red, scaly, or discolored. The most important thing we tell people is to monitor for changes. For example, if you notice a new spot that seems to be growing or an old spot that is now evolving in color, size, shape, etc., the best thing you can do is get it evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist.”

• Dr. Ugonabo is a big fan of accessories that protect skin from the sun. For example, she suggests looking into wide-brimmed hats or umbrellas (especially if you plan to be in the sun for a long time).

Meet Our Expert

We consulted with an expert to best inform this story:

• Dr. Nkem Ugonabo, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist with advanced fellowship training in cosmetic dermatology and lasers.

Why Trust Byrdie

Cullen Ormond is a Byrdie writer and a longtime editor. As someone who loves nothing more than spending time in the sun, she understands the importance of lathering up sunscreen all over your body, including your scalp.

Catherine Hufton is a London-based lifestyle journalist and has been a contributing writer and editor for Byrdie since 2022. She digs deep into all things fashion and beauty to find the very best shopping must-haves—from the most effective collagen serums to the best drugstore makeup essentials.