What steps can be taken to treat sunburn on the scalp?

When sunburn occurs on the scalp, the skin turns red, becomes sensitive, and can even be painful. Since this area is covered by hair, applying the appropriate care is not always straightforward. Nevertheless, certain measures can help soothe inflammation and promote skin repair.

The initial response is to gently cool the area. A rinse with lukewarm to slightly cool water (avoiding ice-cold water that would exacerbate irritation) or the application of a cold compress helps soothe the sensation of heat. It is then advisable to apply hydrating and soothing scalp treatments, such as those containing aloe vera or panthenol, which support the regeneration of the skin barrier. We recommend choosing lightweight products to avoid excessively greasing the roots.

To soothe sunburns on the head, thermal water mists or hydrosols can be used as complementary treatments to provide an immediate calming effect. However, it is preferable to avoid any potentially irritating products, such as anti-dandruff shampoos, essential oils, or alcohol-based lotions, which could intensify the burn. For a few days, it’s also best to avoid using heat-styling tools, like blow dryers or straighteners, to prevent exacerbating inflammation.

If the sunburn is severe – with blisters or signs of infection on the head or fever – a medical evaluation is necessary. The physician can then prescribe a wound-healing cream based on corticosteroids or another treatment to reduce discomfort and prevent complications.

Note : Most sunburns of the first degree take at least one week to heal. In contrast, more severe sunburns can take weeks or even months to heal.

If treating a sunburn on the scalp requires patience and appropriate care, the best strategy, of course, remains prevention.

The wearing a hat or cap is the most reliable way to prevent sunburn. Thick fabrics and broad brims offer optimal protection, particularly during prolonged outdoor exposure. For individuals with thinning hair or baldness, this precaution is essential, as the lack of scalp coverage significantly increases the risk of sunburn on the scalp.

The application of a scalp-specific sunscreen is another effective solution. Lightweight sun sprays, often formulated to prevent the hair from becoming greasy, are available and enable protection of the skin without leaving a sticky residue. This step is particularly recommended for sensitive areas such as the hair parting, where the skin is directly exposed.

Finally, seek shade and avoid direct exposure to the sun during the hottest hours (between 11 AM and 4 PM) as additional effective measures to prevent sunburn on the scalp.