Yes, you can put sunscreen in your hair, but with some important considerations. While applying sunscreen directly to all your hair might make it oily, you can protect your scalp and hair from sun damage. Focus on areas where your scalp is exposed, such as your part or any balding areas.
Protecting Your Scalp and Hair from Sun Damage
The sun's harmful UV rays can damage not only your skin but also your hair and scalp. Just as you protect your skin with sunscreen, you can protect your scalp and hair, particularly in areas where your scalp shows through your hair. Several resources confirm this:
- Targeted Application: A spray-on sunscreen is ideal for applying to your scalp, focusing on your part, cowlicks, or any areas where your scalp is exposed. (Healthline, Reddit r/HaircareScience)
- Specific Products: Many product lines offer hair and scalp sunscreens specifically formulated for this purpose. (Skin Cancer Foundation, Healthline)
- Avoiding Oily Hair: Applying sunscreen to your entire head of hair is not recommended, as it can leave your hair feeling oily. (Healthline)
- Alternative: Hats: For extensive sun exposure, a hat offers excellent sun protection for your hair and scalp. (Reddit r/Blackskincare)
Key Considerations:
- Thinning Hair or Bald Patches: If you have thin hair or bald patches, applying sunscreen directly to your scalp is crucial for sun protection. (Byrdie)
- Post-Hair Transplant: Consult a doctor before applying sunscreen to the scalp after a hair transplant to avoid any complications. (RealSelf)
- Babies' Scalps: Sunscreen can be applied to a baby's scalp, but always check with a pediatrician before doing so. (Windsor Peak Forums)
The bottom line is that while applying sunscreen directly to all your hair is generally not advised, using a dedicated hair and scalp sunscreen or a spray-on sunscreen on exposed areas of your scalp is a good way to protect yourself from sun damage.
