Sunscreen for hair protects color and texture, dermatologists say

Dermatologists told NBC Selected that sunscreen for hair can help limit sun-related fading, dryness and breakage, especially for people with color-treated or damaged hair. The advice matters most in summer, when the scalp and hair shaft can both be exposed for long stretches outdoors.

The experts drew a distinction between protecting skin and protecting hair. According to NBC Selected, the scalp needs sunscreen because it is skin and can burn; hair UV products are mainly meant to preserve color, strength, shine and texture.

Do you need sunscreen for your hair?

Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist cited by NBC Selected, said ultraviolet rays can weaken keratin in hair over time. She said sun exposure can also strip natural oils, fade color and leave hair more prone to split ends and breakage.

Dr. Kseniya Kobets, director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care Cosmetic Dermatology Center, told NBC Selected that hair UV protectants can be useful for people who spend substantial time outdoors or swim often. She said these products are commonly leave-in conditioners or styling sprays with UV filters.

For the scalp, NBC Selected reported that dermatologists recommend broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Sprays, lightweight lotions, sticks and brush-on mineral powders can work depending on hairstyle and hair density.

For the hair shaft, the recommended approach is different. Kobets told NBC Selected that lightweight leave-in UV protectants can help reduce moisture loss, color fading and damage without making hair greasy.

What should you look for in a hair sunscreen?

Green told NBC Selected that shoppers should look for labels that say broad-spectrum protection. She said UV-protective sprays and mists help form a barrier on strands and reflect ultraviolet radiation away from the hair.

Green also advised choosing formulas that are light and non-greasy, according to NBC Selected. Products made for skin can leave hair oily or sticky, while sprays and mists are easier to distribute without flattening a hairstyle.

NBC Selected also cited nourishing ingredients as a factor. Green said leave-in treatments that combine UV filters with antioxidants or plant oils can add hydration while providing protection.

Which hair sunscreens did NBC Selected recommend?

NBC Selected named Coola Organic Scalp Spray & Hair Sunscreen Mist as its best overall pick, listing it at $30. The outlet said senior editor Shalwah Evans uses it in warmer months and described it as lightweight and non-greasy.

For an everyday spray, NBC Selected highlighted Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Scalp and Hair Mist, citing its water resistance, broad-spectrum protection and noncomedogenic formula. Sun Bum’s directions, as reported by NBC Selected, say to spray it four to six inches from the scalp and spread it with fingertips.

NBC Selected chose Pantene Sunkiss Glow Spray UV Hair Protection Leave-In Conditioning Treatment as its budget-friendly option at $9.99. The outlet said the product is designed to protect hair from UV damage while conditioning and strengthening it.

Dr. Tracy Evans, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology, recommended Colorescience Total Protection Sheer Matte SPF 30 Sunscreen Brush for hair and scalp, according to NBC Selected. The outlet said the powder absorbs oil and applies matte, though it can leave white residue if not shaken out.

Other products cited by NBC Selected included Australian Gold SPF 50 Face & Scalp Mist, Naked Sundays UV Hair Protectant Mist and It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In Product. The outlet said experts favored lightweight UV-protective sprays and styling products over traditional sunscreen lotions for hair because lotions can feel greasy.

This story draws on original reporting from NBC News.