The Best UV Protectors For Your Scalp & Hair
Image: ALICIA BOCK/STOCKSY UNITED
/

The Best UV Protectors For Your Scalp & Hair

Everyone knows how important it is to protect our skin from the sun, but the damage UV rays can do to your hair and scalp is often overlooked. Thankfully, it’s now easier than ever to keep this delicate area safe – here are eight products that offer optimum protection.
By Rebecca Hull /
Image: ALICIA BOCK/STOCKSY UNITED

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.

Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30, $17.49 | Sun Bum

Lightweight and sheer, this scalp and hair mist is full of nourishing ingredients like algae and vitamin E to soften and hydrate dry strands while protecting them from UV damage. It’s also water resistant for up to 80 minutes – ideal for beach or humid days, though we recommend topping up regularly. Never sticky or tacky, it absorbs fast and can be used on your ears and around your parting.

Available at SunBum.com

Hairdresser's Invisible Oil UV Protection Dry Oil Finishing Spray, £28 | Bumble & Bumble

A super fine mist, this non-greasy formula hydrates like an oil, but without any of the usual heaviness. Instead, it gently latches onto hair and forms an invisible shield to protect against any damage from the sun and pollution – which is also known to dull hair. Simply shake well and mist it over generously, moving from the mid-lengths to the ends. Finish by combing everything through, then massaging it in with your fingers for even coverage.

Available at JohnLewis.com

Poof 100% Mineral Part Powder SPF 35, £32 | Supergoop!

With a dry shampoo-like texture, this is best applied directly to your scalp. Once it’s on, you’ll find it leaves behind a trail of imperceptible protection. The handy spray pump means you can apply it as and when – just make sure you massage it in for optimum results. Regular use will keep UV damage and potential burning at bay, while giving your roots extra oomph and volume.

Available at Revolve.com


Hair In The Sun, £31 | Sachajuan

Experts love this soft, lightweight formula. Apply it to wet or dry hair – either way, the water-resistant formula offers intense protection, even after swimming. Massage on a generous amount before you expose your hair and scalp to the sun and reapply at the end of the day to recondition and give hair a bit of post-sun TLC. You’ll find it gives hair more texture, too – use a tiny amount to tame flyaways and frizz, and give strands a softer, beachier look.

Available at Sachajuan.com

SPF 50 UV Face & Scalp Mist, £20 | Ultrasun

This transparent spray is so easy to use on top of or underneath make-up, and directly over hair and on your scalp. It offers impressive levels of protection, shielding you from both damaging UVA and UVB rays, while its antioxidant-rich formula locks in hydration so your strands never dry out in the sun. It also lends hair a subtle, glossy sheen – a great all-rounder.

Available at JohnLewis.com

Suncare Protective Hair Veil, £24 | Aveda

This leave-in treatment is made using all-natural ingredients. Cinnamon bark oils, shea butter and coconut oil combine for deep hydration, while natural UV filters block out the drying effect of the sun. Offering up to 16 hours of protection – though more regular application won’t hurt – it’s lightweight and surprisingly non-greasy, despite the silky, rich texture. As it’s a spray, it’s easy to reapply throughout the day. We love the tropical scent – uplifting and zesty.

Available at CultBeauty.co.uk


Swimcap Water Resistant Mask, £16 (was £20) | Philip Kingsley

Originally designed for Olympic swimmers, this three-in-one product promises to protect against UV rays, as well as the damaging effects of chlorine and sea salt. The result? Hair that stays vibrant, silky soft and hydrated. It also minimises breakage. Start by dividing your hair into sections and combing the product through. Because it gives hair a slick look, it’s best to use it on non-wash days, or when you haven’t got any plans. Once you’ve finished, simply wash hair as normal with shampoo and conditioner.

Available at LookFantastic.com

Sun Care Body Oil-In-Mist, £26 | Clarins

A true space saver, this mist protects both your hair and skin with a satin-like texture. It absorbs fast, so you never have to worry about any sticky feel, while the nourishing ingredients keep your skin, scalp and hair in tip-top condition. We recommend misting this on your hair, before slicking it back into a low chignon. The packaging is completely recyclable, so you never have any throwaway guilt either.

Available at Clarins.co.uk

Fashion. Beauty. Culture. Life. Home
Delivered to your inbox, daily