6 ways to prevent and treat a scalp sunburn, according to a dermatologist
Erin McDowell
- This Labor Day weekend, it's important to remember to protect your scalp from painful sunburns.
- Dr. Angela J. Lamb spoke to Insider about the best ways to avoid and treat scalp sunburn.
To prevent getting scalp sunburn, Dr. Angela J. Lamb recommends staying out direct sunlight during the hours when the sun is at its strongest.
Dr. Angela J. Lamb, an associate professor in the Department of Dermatology at Mount Sinai, told Insider that the sun is usually at its strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
During that time, Lamb said either avoid being in direct sunlight or use extra precautions like a sun hat, umbrella, or sunscreen in order to prevent burning the scalp.
Depending on your hair type or style, you may have to take extra precautions.
"People that are bald, have thinning hair, or are wearing braids should be extra cautious in order to prevent a scalp sunburn," Lamb told Insider. "The parts on the braids make the scalp very vulnerable. The scalp is so easily neglected."
Lamb also said that people should be aware of how much skin is exposed at the part of their hair and to try to cover it if possible.
"If you have a hair pattern where you have a natural part in one area, this section will be exposed to repeated sun exposure as there's no hair covering it," Lamb said.
Wearing a hat or using a scalp sunscreen can also prevent sunburn.
While you might not want to use regular sunscreen on your scalp, there are products that are formulated specifically for the scalp that can prevent sunburn.
"There are several brands of sunscreen made specifically for the scalp including Coola and Sun Bum," Lamb told Insider.
Lamb recommends a few over-the-counter products if you do get sunburned on your scalp.
"The key is applying an anti-inflammatory, particularly over-the-counter Cortisone as well as taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory orally for the pain," Lamb told Insider. "You also can use cooling gel that contains aloe or hyaluronic acid. It helps to put these in the refrigerator to assist with a cooling sensation."
While it may be tempting to pick at or exfoliate a peeling scalp, Lamb says it's a better practice to hydrate the skin.
"Especially if the area blisters, keeping it moist during the healing process is very important," Lamb told Insider.
Using products that are formulated for scalp sunburns is preferred, but also using a hydrating, sulfate-free, and dimethicone-free shampoo and conditioner can help to heal the scalp. It's also recommended to shower in cool or tepid water rather than hot water and drink lots of fluids to keep skin hydrated. You should also avoid using a hair dryer or hot tools that might further inflame the area while you're recovering.
If your scalp sunburn lasts more than a week or you are experiencing intense pain, consult a professional dermatologist.
"If you were having intense pain that is interfering with your ability to sleep or the areas are blistering, I would recommend contacting a professional dermatologist," Lamb told Insider.
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