We all know slathering on SPF is essential for protecting our skin in the sun, but does our hair need SPF too? Technically speaking, not in the exact same way. In sun creams and lotions, SPF – which stands for ‘sun protection factor’ – relates to how much protection the formula offers skin against UVB rays (the type mainly associated with sunburn and a raised risk of skin cancer, while UVA rays are more associated with ageing). These risks don’t apply with hair.
However, our scalps do certainly need protecting from sunburn, which is where SPF can be very important. Also, the sun can leave our locks seriously frazzled and worse for wear, so protecting it will help it stay looking and feeling its best. Here’s what you need to know.
.. Burn-free scalps Many of us have learned the hard way that it’s all too easy to scorch your scalp on a sunny day.
“Any exposed area of skin is vulnerable to the sun’s rays. Whether you are wearing your hair in plaits and your parting is prevalent, or you have areas of thinning hair, you should be applying sun cream to these exposed spots,” says Laura Elliott, head stylist at haircare specialists Neal & Wolf. “Ideally, you want to be choosing an SPF50 product and reapply every two hours.
For precise and mess-free application, squeeze a pea-sized blob onto your finger, rub together as you would with any other haircare product and gently massage into the scalp.” Concerned about greasiness? Elliott suggests: “Spray sun creams .
