No, sunburn itself cannot directly burn your hair. However, the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun that cause sunburn can damage your hair.
Understanding Sun's Impact on Hair and Scalp
Hair is primarily composed of a protein called keratin. Unlike skin, hair doesn't exhibit the reddening and blistering characteristic of sunburn. However, prolonged sun exposure can significantly harm it. As noted in multiple sources (Cleveland Clinic, GoodRx), UV rays damage the hair's outer layer (cuticle), leading to:
- Brittleness: Hair becomes fragile and prone to breakage.
- Dryness: The hair loses its moisture, becoming dull and lifeless.
- Discoloration: The hair's color may fade or become uneven.
While your hair doesn't "burn" in the same way skin does, the underlying scalp can get sunburned. This is because, as stated in GoodRx and Healthline, hair doesn't always provide sufficient protection. A severe sunburn on the scalp could potentially lead to inflammation which may, in extreme cases, contribute to hair loss (telogen effluvium, as noted by Miami Hair Institute). However, the sunburn itself doesn't directly burn the hair. The damage is indirect, caused by the UV radiation. Furthermore, as noted by Healthline, a sunburned scalp typically does not cause hair loss.
Protecting Your Hair and Scalp from Sun Damage
To minimize sun damage to both hair and scalp:
- Use hair products with UV protection.
- Wear a hat or other head covering.
- Seek shade during peak sun hours.
- Apply sunscreen to your scalp, especially if your hair is thin or parted.
