The 7 Best Scalp Sunscreens

I learned the hard way that a scalp sunburn is the absolute worst. It’s painful, impossible to soothe, and then it peels for days. It’s just not a good look.

And you can’t just slather regular body sunscreen on your part line. That leaves you with a greasy, sticky mess. That’s why I started looking for a dedicated hair sunscreen.

These formulas are made specifically for your scalp and hair part. They protect you from the sun without ruining your hairstyle. After trying a bunch, I found the ones that actually work.

 

 

The Best Scalp Sunscreens I’ve Tried

Supergoop Poof 100% Mineral Part Powder SPF 35

The Supergoop Poof costs $34.

This is a 100% mineral powder that I just puff right onto my part. It feels like nothing, and it has the added benefit of working like a dry shampoo, soaking up oil and adding a bit of volume at the roots.

It’s made with zinc oxide, so it’s a good pick for sensitive skin. It blends in so well that you can’t even tell it’s there. No white, chalky residue.

The Downside: You have to give it a good shake or a few taps to get the powder to dispense evenly. It can be a little tricky at first.

 

 

Sun Bum Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30

You can get this scalp and hair mist for about $19.

This is my go-to for a long day outside. It’s a super lightweight, non-greasy spray that doesn’t weigh my hair down at all. It feels more hydrating than anything else.

It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is great for beach days or workouts. It’s just a solid, affordable choice for everyday protection.

The Downside: It’s a chemical sunscreen, so you need to apply it about 15 minutes before you actually go out into the sun.

 

 

Brush On Block SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen

This powder sunscreen brush costs $36.

I love this one for reapplying on the go. The self-dispensing brush is so soft and makes it easy to dust the powder on my scalp and face without a mirror. It’s perfect for travel.

The formula has ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, and it’s great at absorbing oil. It gives my hair a little boost just like a dry shampoo, but with 80 minutes of water-resistant sun protection.

The Downside: The price point is a little higher than some of the other options.

 

 

Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush SPF 30

This brush-on powder is priced around $20.

If you have an oily scalp, this stuff is fantastic. It does a really good job of soaking up excess oil, leaving a nice matte finish that helps me go longer between washes.

The mineral formula provides broad-spectrum protection, and it’s great for mid-day touch-ups when your part starts to look a little greasy. The translucent tint works on most skin tones.

The Downside: I just wish the bristles on the brush were a bit softer. They’re not harsh, but they’re not as plush as others I’ve tried.

 

 

COOLA Scalp & Hair Mist Organic Sunscreen SPF 30

The COOLA hair mist sells for $28.

This is the one I tell all my friends with color-treated hair to buy. It really helps protect your hair color from fading in the sun. It also smells like the beach, which is a huge plus.

The formula is reef-friendly and packed with organic ingredients that feel really nourishing. It’s a lightweight mist that doesn’t make your hair feel stiff or crunchy.

The Downside: Some people with very heavily bleached hair said it didn’t work as well for them.

 

 

Oars + Alps Face And Scalp Sunscreen Spray Mist SPF 35

This spray mist costs an affordable $16.

I love a good multitasker, and this one is great for both face and scalp. Application is so fast—you just spray it on and you’re done. No need to rub it in.

It doesn’t leave a white cast or make my hair greasy, and it has aloe and cucumber seed oil that feel really hydrating. It’s awesome for streamlining my routine.

The Downside: It has a light, fresh scent. I like it, but it might not be for you if you prefer fragrance-free products.

 

 

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50

This luxury brush-on sunscreen costs $69.

This is definitely a splurge, but it’s incredible. The high SPF 50 protection is top-notch, and it’s recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. The brush is also refillable, which is a nice touch.

It comes in a few different tints, which are amazing if you have thinning hair or just want a little coverage along your part line. It’s a really elegant product that works on both face and scalp.

The Downside: It’s very expensive compared to every other option on this list.

Honestly, finding a good hair sunscreen has made my summers so much better. No more hiding under a hat all day or dealing with a burnt, flaky scalp for a week.

There are great options out there whether you prefer a powder, a spray, or a brush-on formula. It’s just a matter of picking the one that feels best for your hair and routine.