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We often forget that our scalp can get sunburned just like any other part of the body! If your scalp has already become red and painful, the good news is there are several ways to soothe it and quickly relieve the discomfort. Check out our excellent tips to hydrate and protect your scalp until it recovers.
Steps
Cold Compress to Soothe the Scalp
Apply a cold compress to the scalp to temporarily relieve pain. Even after being indoors, you may still feel a burning sensation on your scalp. To ease the discomfort, you can make your own cold compress by filling a zip-lock bag three-quarters full with ice, squeezing out the air, and sealing it. Wrap the bag in a damp towel and apply it to your scalp until you feel cooler.
- You can apply the cold compress multiple times a day as needed.
- No ice? Soak a towel in cold water, fold it to fit a zip-lock bag, and place the bag in the freezer for 15 minutes, then apply it to your scalp.
Use cool water and gentle shampoo when washing your hair
Avoid hot water when washing your hair. Use cool water to soothe your scalp, and try not to stand under the shower for too long to prevent drying out your skin. If your scalp is especially painful, you can skip shampoo and just let cold water flow over your scalp, or wash with a sulfate-free moisturizing shampoo. Avoid dandruff shampoos, as they contain strong chemicals.
- Sulfates are cleansing agents that make shampoo lather. They also strip natural oils from your hair, which can be too harsh for a sunburned, sensitive scalp.
Moisturize your scalp while it is damp
Gently massage conditioner into your scalp to lock in moisture. Use a conditioner that is free from dimethicone, a type of silicone. Dimethicone can clog pores on the scalp and trap heat. Instead, opt for a conditioner without dimethicone to keep your scalp hydrated as it recovers, rinsing with cool water.
- If you want to maintain scalp moisture between washes, you can spritz cool water on your scalp to add some moisture, then apply a lotion that does not contain waxes or oil-based ingredients. Oils can clog scalp pores, trap heat, and cause sweating. You don’t need to rinse the lotion, although your hair may appear a bit greasy near the scalp.
Apply aloe vera gel or 1% hydrocortisone cream
Both of these products help soothe itching and reduce swelling. You can safely use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or aloe vera gel throughout the day for a few days or until your scalp heals naturally.
- Avoid using painkillers or topical anesthetics that contain benzocaine on sunburned areas, as these may cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Drink water throughout the day to hydrate your skin
Your body needs extra water because sunburn draws fluids to the surface of your skin. This means you are more likely to become dehydrated. Keep water within easy reach and sip it throughout the day to stay hydrated and aid in your skin's recovery.
- Wondering if you're hydrated? Check the color of your urine – it should be clear or pale yellow. If it's dark yellow or amber, you need to drink more water.
Take over-the-counter pain relievers
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Follow the instructions on the label and take it as soon as you notice your scalp is sunburned, as the medication will help reduce inflammation. You can continue taking pain relievers until your scalp improves, as long as you don't exceed the recommended dose.
- To avoid the risk of Reye's syndrome, do not give aspirin to children under 16 for pain relief.
Avoid touching blisters to help them heal faster
Keep your scalp dry and avoid applying moisturizer to blisters. Do not pop or drain the blister, as this can cause infection. Focus on treating the sunburned skin around the blister, and refrain from applying any product directly on the blister. It will heal naturally within a few days.
- Blisters are a sign of second-degree sunburn, so make it a habit to protect your head when outdoors in the sun.
Let your hair air dry without using heated styling tools
Heated tools like blow dryers or straighteners can cause discomfort. These tools also heat up the scalp, making the skin drier. Avoid using heat-based styling tools for about a week or until your sunburn heals completely. During this time, let your hair dry naturally.
- It's also best to skip hair styling products, as most contain chemicals that may irritate sensitive scalps. Allow your skin to recover before resuming the use of hair products.
Avoid direct sunlight until your scalp has fully healed.
Allow your scalp to heal properly to prevent further sunburn! If you must go outside, apply sunscreen to your scalp and wear a hat. Choose a wide-brimmed hat to avoid trapping heat or pressing against the sensitive skin on your scalp.
- Don't forget to stay hydrated when out in the sun. Your body needs more water as the temperature rises.
- Try to avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Tips
- Be gentle when brushing your hair and avoid touching your scalp. If you have long hair, avoid tying it tightly to prevent pain on your scalp.
- Look for spray sunscreens for your scalp at pharmacies. This type of product is easier to apply if you have thick hair.
- If you're taking medication, check if it makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. You may need to stay out of the sun while on that medication.
Warnings
- Don't apply ice directly to your scalp – it can damage the sensitive skin.
- If your sunburned scalp is accompanied by symptoms like feeling faint, difficulty drinking water, or a fever of up to 40°C, you may be suffering from heatstroke. Seek immediate medical attention as you could also be dehydrated.
