Exactly How to Protect Your Hair and Scalp from the Sun

When it comes to sun protection, we know that it's critical to apply sunscreen over our entire bodies, but do you count your hair and scalp in that? I didn't. Even as a diligent sunscreen user, I would apply sunscreen up to my forehead and never even consider my hair or scalp, because, well, they're my hair and scalp. 

Spoiler alert: Skipping out on that sun protection is one big beauty faux pas. Read on to find out why and, of course, how to keep your locks and your scalp from sunburn. 

Why You Need to Protect Your Hair:

You might be thinking, "Do I really need to protect my hair?" Well, while you might not want to add another step to your routine, the answer is yes. Ron Williams, Education Director at Phyto Specific, explained to me that hair is considered a non-living entity when it emerges through the scalp, which is why it doesn't burn like our skin. We may not experience those horrible sunburn symptoms on our manes, but our hair can still become damaged. If we skip sun protection, the result could be a dry, dull, and brittle mane. The damage will only worsen if you're taking a dip in the pool or ocean because of the drying effects of chlorine and salt. 

The sun can also change your dye job—and not for the better. Celebrity hairstylist Sarah Potempa told me that bleached or lifted hair is more susceptible to damage because the process opens up the hair follicle, making hair more vulnerable to oxidizing damage (read: fading) from UV exposure.