What Are the Risks of Scalp Sun Damage?
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “UVB rays can cause direct D damage to the skin’s cells, leading to sunburn, suntan, freckles, and sunspots. UVA rays can cause indirect D damage by creating free radicals.” When UVA and UVB rays reach the scalp, they can damage the cells that produce the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss and thinning.
Over time, sun exposure to the scalp can also increase the risk of skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “Those who are bald or have thinning hair can incur two to three times more ultraviolet radiation to the scalp than those with thick hair… For this reason, scalp athletes (those who have no hair or thinning hair) must take great care when spending time in the sun.”
How Can Scalp and Hair Sunscreen Help?
The key to preventing scalp sun damage is to wear a sunscreen that provides full coverage and protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for a sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum,” as it will offer the most complete protection. A traditional sunscreen in a regular spray bottle or tube won’t provide enough coverage for the scalp, due to its tendency to run or drip. To get the most protection, you’ll want to choose a sunscreen made specifically for the scalp and hair.
Scalp and hair sunscreen typically come in an aerosol spray can that is specifically designed to cover and protect every inch of exposed scalp and hair from the damaging UVA and UVB rays. These aerosol spray sunscreens are often fortified with antioxidants, amino acids, and nutrients to nourish the scalp and hair from root to tip. They also usually contain safe and effective UV actives, such as homosalate and avobenzone, that help to shield the skin from the sun’s rays.
Best Scalp & Hair Sunscreen SPF 40 for California Residents
For the best protection, choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 40. Zenon Life's Scalp & Hair Sunscreen SPF 40 Protect, Style & Volumize is a great choice for those who are looking to protect their scalp from sun damage while enjoying the confidence of a healthier, worry-free headspace. It’s enriched with antioxidants, amino acids, and nutrients to nourish dry, brittle hair, and gives your hair bounce, volume, and shine. It also contains safe and effective UV actives, such as homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate, and avobenzone, that help to shield the skin from the sun’s damaging rays.
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