How to soothe a sunburn on the scalp?

How can sunburn of the scalp be treated?

We often think about protecting our face and body from the sun’s rays, but the scalp remains one of the largely forgotten areas. Yet this region can easily become sunburnt and painful. Redness, itching, a feeling of tightness: the symptoms rapidly become uncomfortable and can even lead to visible peeling. So, what should you do when your scalp has overheated? Let’s explore the most effective measures to soothe and protect this sensitive area.

Published on September 5, 2025, by Sandrine, Scientific Editor — 6 min of reading

The scalp is also susceptible to sunburn.

When we think of sunburn, we usually imagine the shoulders, back or face. However, the scalp is also a vulnerable area, often overlooked when it comes to sun protection. Its direct exposure to sunlight, combined with the fact that hair does not always provide adequate defence, makes it a prime target for ultraviolet radiation.

Certain individuals are particularly at risk. This applies to children, whose thinner skin burns more quickly than that of adults. Infants under 12 months must never be exposed directly to the sun. Fair-skinned phototypes (I to III) are also more vulnerable, as their skin contains less melanin, the pigment that serves as a natural filter against UV radiation. Additionally, those with thinning hair or partial to complete baldness have diminished physical protection from their hair. The risk of sunburn on the scalp can also be heightened by certain medications or hair-care treatments containing exfoliating acids (AHAs or BHAs), which increase photosensitivity.

Best practices for soothing a sunburn on the scalp.

When a sunburn develops on the scalp, the skin becomes red, sensitive and occasionally painful. As this area is covered by hair, applying appropriate care is not always straightforward. Nevertheless, certain measures can help alleviate inflammation and promote cutaneous repair.

The initial reflex is to gently cool the area. A rinse with lukewarm to slightly cool water (avoid icy water, which could exacerbate irritation) or the application of a cold compress helps to soothe the sensation of heat. It is then advisable to apply hydrating and calming treatments suitable for the scalp, such as those based on aloe vera or panthenol, which support the regeneration of the skin barrier. We recommend choosing lightweight products so as not to over-oil the roots.

To soothe sunburns on the scalp, thermal spring water mists or hydrosols can be used as an adjunct to provide an immediate soothing effect. However, it is preferable to avoid any potentially irritating products, such as anti-dandruff shampoos, essential oils or alcohol-based lotions, which might intensify the burn. For a few days, it is also best to refrain from using heated styling tools, such as hairdryers or straighteners, so as not to exacerbate the inflammation.

If the sunburn is severe – with blisters or signs of infection on the head or accompanied by a fever – medical consultation is required. The doctor may then prescribe a healing cream containing corticosteroids or another treatment to minimise discomfort and prevent complications.

Note : Most sunburns of the first degree take at least a week to heal. More severe sunburns, however, can take weeks or even months to heal.

How can sunburn of the scalp be prevented?

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

The wearing of a hat or cap is the most reliable way to prevent sunburn. Thick fabrics and wide brims provide optimal protection, especially during prolonged exposure outdoors. For those with thinning hair or baldness, this precaution is essential, as the absence of scalp coverage significantly increases the risk of sunburn on the scalp.

The application of a scalp-specific sunscreen represents another effective solution. Lightweight sun protection sprays, often formulated to avoid greasing the hair, are available and allow the skin to be protected without leaving a sticky residue. This approach is particularly recommended for sensitive areas such as the parting, where the skin is directly exposed.

Finally, seeking the shade and avoiding direct exposure to sunlight during the hottest hours (between 11 am and 4 pm) are other effective measures to prevent sunburn on the scalp.