Sunburn and our scalp

21 Jul Sunburn and our scalp

As I write this at the end of July 23, the weather is not brilliant in the UK. But if you are heading abroad (or it warms up again here), I am sure sunscreen is top of your summer essentials list.

We all know the importance of using a good sunscreen – we are used to protecting our face and body,  but there is one area which everyone forgets about – and that’s your scalp!

The reason I mention this is, I’ve had several clients in my practice recently with very pink scalps. It’s normally located on the top and crown area, and was not of concern to them as they couldn’t see it and it didn’t hurt or itch. As their visits followed the recent heat wave, it occurred to me it was sun burn.

While away earlier this year my husband also got sunburn on his scalp and his hurt when he stood under the shower, so I am fully aware of the dangers this can cause.

June saw some unusually high temperatures and given the heat waves in Europe – it’s likely we will have some more sunshine and hotter temperatures before the end of the summer.

Although a little sunburn may not be that much of a problem, it’s important thing to think about what it could lead to in the future.

Signs you have a sunburned head include:

• A pink or redness – if you part your hair regularly you may notice it on the parting.
• Soreness.
• Hot skin – either your head will feel hot or hot to the touch.
• Itching, flaking and peeling scalp after a few days

Sun exposure and your hair

Too much sun exposure can also damage the internal structure of your hair, weakening it and making it prone to breakage and split ends – leaving it duller and more brittle. If your hair is dyed then this presents even more of a problem as it’s more susceptible to damage, this is because colour treatments can leave your hair dehydrated and vulnerable.

Those with fine or lighter coloured hair are especially prone to UV damage. And while thicker textures and darker shades offer more natural protection from the sun, it’s still important to protect your hair and scalp to avoid any damage.

Tips from a trichologist

As a trichologist, I see these problems all the time so here are some useful tips on how to avoid getting sunburnt on your scalp and protect your hair in hot temperatures.

• Wear a straw hat. This shades you from the sun, protects your scalp and adds ventilation so your head doesn’t get too hot.
• Wear a head scarf or other hair accessory that cover your head.
• Use a leave in conditioning spray. There are products which will protect your hair from drying out and getting damaged. This will also stop your hair colour from fading.
• Wear a swimming cap if you are in and out of a chlorinated pool – you can still burn when you are in water and the chemicals will dry out your hair!
• If you have noticed your scalp is getting burnt, it could be a sign your hair density is not as thick as normal. If so, book an appointment with a trichologist such as myself – there are many things we can do to help.
• Use UV protection. There are some available out there for your scalp – check out your local chemists and department stores.
• Pay attention to parts, thinning and bald spots.
• Wear a protective hairstyle, such as a ponytail or bun. This will cover as much as your scalp as possible.
• If you have a regular hairdresser speak to them, they may have their own product which they can recommend.
• Keep out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day.

By taking these steps you will not only protect your hair and scalp now, but into the future. If your hair is damaged or you notice any thinning then get in touch– I offer in person and online/phone consultations.