In this article, we will cover five of the most important things to consider when you're looking to put sunscreen on your scalp. We'll discuss what SPF you should be looking for, what ingredients to look for in a sunscreen, when to apply sunscreen, what areas to pay extra attention to, and what other resources you should consult for more information. Read on to learn more about what to consider when you're putting sunscreen on your scalp.
1. Know What SPF You're Looking For
The American Dermatological Association recommends using sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 when it comes to protecting your scalp from sun damage. This ensures that 97% of the sun's rays are blocked, giving you the most coverage possible. Most sunscreen products have an SPF of around 30 or higher, so make sure to check the product labels to ensure the SPF is high enough.
2. Check the Ingredients
When it comes to ingredients, you should look for products that contain compounds that offer broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. Some of the specific compounds you should look for in a quality sunscreen product include: homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate, and avobenzone. You should also look for products that contain natural ingredients such as niacinamide, green tea extract, coffee extract, licorice root extract, microalgae extract, safflower seed oil, and green tea oil. These additional ingredients will nourish your scalp and hair while protecting them from sun damage.
3. Time Your Application
To ensure that you are adequately protected, you should apply your sunscreen approximately 15-20 minutes prior to going outside. This will give it time to properly absorb into your scalp before you start to be exposed to the sun. Make sure to apply the sunscreen liberally all over your scalp and hair and then be sure to reapply every 80 minutes or sooner if you are swimming or sweating profusely.
4. Pay Extra Attention to Sunny Spots
When you're applying sunscreen on your scalp and hair, make sure to pay extra attention to the areas of your scalp that receive the most exposure to the sun. These areas are often the areas that are prone to sunburns or even skin cancer. Pay special attention to thinning or balding areas, as they are especially vulnerable to sun damage.
5. Consult an Expert
It's always a good idea to consult with a doctor or a dermatologist to get the best advice on how to protect your scalp from sun damage. They can help you determine the best SPF and advise you on ingredients to look for in a quality sunscreen product. Additionally, they can provide you with valuable information on other steps you can take to protect your scalp such as wearing protective clothing and hats.
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