Dermatologist-Approved Scalp Sunscreens That Don’t Make Hair Greasy
Dermatologists say your scalp needs SPF, too. These lightweight hair and scalp sunscreens protect against burns without greasy roots.ByAlexa VazquezJun 11, 2026 10:00 PMTags
Courtesy of Sun BumOnce summer starts, you’ll likely be spending a lot of time outdoors. From beach days to pool parties and backyard BBQs, sunscreen is a must.
But as you slather SPF all over your face and body, don’t forget that your scalp and hair need sun protection, too. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Neda Mehr, scalp and hair sun damage is real.
- Top Early Amazon Prime Day Deal: Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush SPF 30, (now $14.19, was $19.99)
- On-Sale UV Hair Protectant : Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Heat & UV Protective Primer, (now $25.50, was $34)
- Derm-Recommended Scalp Sunscreen: EltaMD UV AOX Mist Broad Spectrum SPF 40
How do I protect my hair and scalp from sunburns?
While Dr. Mehr notes that hair acts as a protective layer, parts of your scalp are often exposed to the sun’s harmful rays. That’s why “a lot of times, we see people who get skin cancer in their hair part,” she says.
The easiest way to protect your scalp is by wearing a hat (not a visor, Dr. Mehr specifies). But these days, you can also find sunscreens designed specifically for the scalp, whether a mist or powder.
Similar to your scalp, sun protection for hair is also overlooked, and can cause frizz, damage, and breakage.
“The hair has an outer sheath called a cuticle that protects the hair,” she explains, “but UVA and UVB rays from the sun can burn that cuticle down and cause frayed, frizzy hair that’s easily broken.” Think of it as using hot tools on high settings.
For that reason, Dr. Mehr also suggests incorporating haircare that protects against potential UV damage. Think leave-in treatments and lightweight oils.
Protect your part with these dermatologist-approved SPFs, treatments, and more that won’t leave you greasy.
Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush SPF 30
SPF application doesn’t get any easier than this powder sunscreen brush ideal for on-the-go touch-ups. Transluscent and lightweight, this mineral option also mattifies and absorbs excess oil. Use it on your face or scalp.
Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat & UV Protective Primer
Bumble and Bumble’s best-selling Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil is a multipurpose leave-in treatment that fights frizz, detangles, conditions, and contains UV filters to protect the hair from the sun.
Coola Scalp & Hair Mist Organic Sunscreen SPF 30
Coola’s scalp and hair sunscreen was specifically made to protect your head from the sun. It’s made with certified organic ingredients, is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, and has a natural sea salt scent that fans of the product love. Plus, it’s lightweight and won’t wear your hair down.
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EltaMD UV AOX Mist Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Dr. Mehr recommends this spray sunscreen from EltaMD to protect your scalp. It’s lightweight, non-greasy and contains zinc oxide, which provides protection from UVA and UVB rays. Just keep in mind that it may leave a white residue due to the titanium and zinc.
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Ouai Hair Oil
This lightweight hair oil from Ouai was made to give you super glossy and super smooth hair while also providing protection against heat and UV damage. As a major bonus, it smells really, really good too!
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Oribe Invisible Defense Universal Protection Hair Spray
This “weightless” hair spray from Oribe was made to protect hair from heat styling, the harmful effects of UV rays and pollution. It also features the brand’s signature scent which has notes of Calabrian bergamot, white butterfly jasmine, and sandalwood.
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Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil
There’s no doubts that Aveda’s Sun Care Protective Hair Veil will keep your hair protected and in great condition. It’s a lightweight, water-resistant mist that was formulated to protect your hair from the sun for up to 16 hours.
Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-On Sunscreen Mineral Powder
Colorscience’s Sunforgettable Brush-On Sunscreen is also a product that Dr. Mehr recommends. “It’s really nice because you can brush it up on your hairline and on your scalp,” she said. It protects you from UVA/UVB rays, pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. It’s also available in multiple shades to match different skin tones.
Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Scalp and Hair Mist
This mist makes protecting your hair and scalp from the sun easy. Offering broad spectrum protection, it dries quickly, feels weightless, and won’t make hair greasy. It’s infused with sunflower oil to revitalize dry, damaged hair.
Here’s how often you should actually reapply sunscreen over your makeup.
