A bald head and sun exposure are two things that do not go hand-in-hand. Exposure to harmful UV rays can be dangerous.
The absence of hair makes the scalp more sensitive to the sun rays, increasing the chances of sunburn, and at worst, skin cancer.
From an anti-dandruff shampoo to a scalp moisturizer, there are plenty of products that you will need. In this article, however, we will focus on the best sunscreen for bald heads.
Read on and we’ll let you know the top products that should be on your list!
Why You Should Use a Sunscreen on Your Bald Head
They say your hair is your crowning glory. What if you don’t have hair? Even if you are bald, this does not mean that you can just ignore your scalp. Among others, one of the best ways to take care of it is through a sunscreen.
Using a sunscreen for bald head protects your scalp from the harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can cause cancer. Because no layer of hair protects the scalp, you are more susceptible to damage caused by the sun’s rays, so sunscreen is a must-have.
Like your skin on the other parts of the body, the scalp can also suffer from sunburn. Aside from being dry, red, and painful, it can go dark. With this, one of the easiest solutions is to use the right sunscreen.
How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for your Bald Head
To help you narrow down the possibilities, below are some of the important factors to consider:
SPF: It stands for Sun Protective Factor, which is an indication of the effectiveness to block the sun rays. No sunscreen can provide 100% protection from the UVB rays. SPF 15 means that it can offer 93% UVB protection, 97% for SPF 30, and 98% for SPF 50.
Water-Resistance: This is important as it indicates how often you will need to reapply the sunscreen on your scalp. For most of the products mentioned above, they are water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Ingredients: Looking at the ingredients is important to determine the effectiveness and safety of the sunscreen. Stay away from those with toxic chemicals, especially if you have a sensitive scalp. It should also not contain dyes, fragrances, and parabens, among others.
Type: There are two types of sunscreens that you can use for your bald head – physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens will create a barrier that will block the UV rays. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens will absorb and scatter the sun rays. Regardless of which one you choose, you must use them regularly to yield optimal benefits.
How to Use Sunscreen on your Scalp
There is no special procedure when it comes to the application of sunscreen on your scalp. You can follow the same steps as you would apply the sunscreen on your face or body.
If it is in the form of a lotion, do not apply straight on the scalp. Instead, pour a small amount on your palm and rub it on your scalp. If you are using a spray, on the other hand, spray about three to six inches away from the head. Apply the sunscreen at least 15 minutes before exposure or depending on the instructions from the manufacturer. Reapply as instructed.
Before using a sunscreen, it is also recommended that you first try it out in an inconspicuous area. If there is redness, irritation, or other signs of side effects, discontinue its use.
The Best Sunscreens for Bald Heads
Clueless about the best product to buy? Below are our top picks and the things that make them impressive.
Bee Bald Smooth Plus Daily Moisturizer
If you are looking for the best moisturizer with SPF for bald head, this is another promising option. It has SPF 30 broad-spectrum, which protects the scalp from both UVA and UVB rays.
Aside from protecting the skin from the harsh rays and heat of the sun, it offers several other benefits. For instance, the manufacturer also claims that it has moisturizing, hydrating, and toning benefits. It also reduces shine and controls oil secretion to make your bald head dry.
To deliver the best outcomes, its key ingredients include 10% homosalate, 6% benzophenone 3, 5% Ethylhexyl salicylate, 3% butyl methoxybidenzoylmethane, and 2.7% octocrylene. On the other hand, the inactive ingredients include ginger root, licorice root, honey extract, goji extract, and pollen berry.
Supergoop! Sunscreen For Face and Body
While the product name specifically states that this is a face and body lotion, we can’t see any reason why you can’t use it for your bald head!
One of the best things about this sunscreen is the use of sunflower extract as its main ingredient. It is a potent source of beta carotene, which can protect the scalp from environmental aggressors.
Another key ingredient is rosemary leaf extract, which is great for calming. Rice bran extract, on the other hand, minimizes damages caused by UVR.
If you are looking for a sunscreen that will be long-lasting, you also have a good reason to choose this over others. Aside from being water and sweat-resistant, the manufacturer claims that its effect lasts for 80 minutes. After that, you will need to reapply.
Thinksport Safe Sunscreen SPF50+
Safety is one of the best things about this sunscreen for bald head. It passes the requirements of Whole Foods Premium Care. It was the first product to do so. Also, based on the EWG 2010 rating, it has a score of 1. It is also a recipient of multiple awards. These are all compelling reasons to choose this sunscreen for your bald head.
Capable of providing both UVA and UVB protection, it has a mineral-based formula, which is one thing that can provide you peace of mind.
You will also love how it is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes after application. For optimal effects, the manufacturer recommends that you reapply after 80 minutes of sun exposure.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen SPF 60
With almost two decades of experience in sun care products, La Roche-Posay is one of the most reputable brands. You can never go wrong with this oil-free sunscreen, which also means that your scalp won’t have an unattractive shine.
Among others, one of its best features is the Cell-OX Shield technology, which is also what sets it apart from most of its competitors. It is loaded with antioxidants to nourish the scalp. It also has perlite and silica, which absorbs excess oil on your head.
There is no need to worry about your safety. The manufacturer takes pride in the fact that it has been tested by dermatologists and proven to be safe. It also does not contain allergens and harsh chemicals, making it perfect even for people who have sensitive skin.
California Baby SPF 30 Sunscreen
Do not be fooled by the name of this sunscreen! While it is designed with the needs of babies in mind, it is equally effective when it is used even by adults, including those with a bald head.
This SPF30+ sunscreen lotion uses natural minerals and titanium dioxide, which makes it safe even for people who have super-sensitive skin. It protects and moisturizes while assuring that there will be no side effects.
It also comes with an environmentally friendly formula. It does not have chemicals that will be bad for the environment, especially the ocean.
The sunscreen is also allergy-tested and vegan-friendly.
Lastly, it is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, eliminating the need for frequent re-application.
EltaMD UV Pure Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 47
If you are looking for a lightweight sunscreen that delivers a powerful performance, this product deserves your attention. It protects from UVA and UVB damage. Like most of the products included in our recommendations, it also stays water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
The main ingredients of this sunscreen include 10% transparent zinc oxide and 5.5% titanium oxide. It does not contain fragrances, oils, paraben, dye, and gluten. Even if you have a sensitive scalp, no need to worry about irritation.
Badger Sport Sunscreen Cream SPF 35
The manufacturer takes pride in the simplicity of this sunscreen cream. It uses only five basic ingredients and there are no fragrances. It stays true to the less is more philosophy. Despite this, the effectiveness is not compromised in any way.
The main ingredient of this sunscreen is uncoated clear zinc oxide. These are non-nano particles that will cling on the scalp after application, protect your bald head for up to 80 minutes. Sweat and water will not get it off the surface!
This is also a great choice if you are looking for an eco-friendly sunscreen. It comes with an eco-friendly formula and has not been in any form of animal testing.
Image Prevention + Daily Matte Moisturizer Oil-Free SPF 32
More than acting as a daily moisturizer, this also doubles as a sunscreen and you can safely use it in your bald head while expecting the same set of benefits. It is made of 9% zinc oxide and 7.5% Octinoxate.
One of the reasons for its effectiveness is the micro-sponge technology. It absorbs the surface oils on the scalp, leaving a matte finish. This is a good solution if your scalp is always oily. The sunscreen also protects the scalp from the damages that free radicals may cause.
CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 50
The brand name itself can already give you a compelling reason to choose this over others. When used in the scalp, it has a lightweight and non-greasy feel, which is the same if you use it for the face.
This is a 100% mineral sunscreen. It contains three essential ceramides, which is an innovation you can find in other CeraVe skincare products. One of the main ingredients is hyaluronic acid, which is responsible for the retention of the skin’s natural barrier. On the other hand, niacinamide has a cooling and calming effect.
The sunscreen is also allergy-tested, so you can be confident of its safety. It does not contain dyes, parabens, and chemicals that can be harsh on your scalp or skin.
Vanicream Lip Protectant/Sunscreen
While this is formulated specifically to protect the lips from the harmful rays of the sun, many of its users shared that it is equally effective for the scalp.
This sunscreen is recommended even by dermatologists. The manufacturer states that it does not contain gluten, formaldehyde, paraben, lanolin, dyes, and other chemicals that can irritate the scalp or skin.
It is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you won’t have to reapply now and then.
Among others, one of the exceptional features of this sunscreen is Helioplex Technology, which has been exclusively developed by Neutrogena. It improves the protection that the sunscreen can provide from both UVA and UVB damage.
You will also love how lightweight it is. Even on a sunny day, it won’t be greasy, which also minimizes the shine in your scalp. Plus, it glides smoothly on the head, which makes its application almost effortless on your end.
All Good Sport Sunscreen Lotion
Like most of the top-rated sunscreens for bald head, it is also water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It has SPF 30, which is impressive for the sun protection that it can provide. It is also non-greasy, so your head will remain comfortable unlike with other sunscreens that can end up feeling sticky once you start to sweat.
If you are swimming in the ocean, there’s no need to worry about the use of this sunscreen. It has a special formula that makes it reef-friendly.
The active ingredient of this sunscreen is 12% zinc oxide. The non-active ingredients, on the other hand, include aloe leaf juice, calendula flower, sunflower seed oil, and green tea leaf extract, among others.
Pevonia Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30
Pevonia is one of the brands that you should know when it comes to luxurious natural skincare. Among others, one of the best things about this sunscreen is how it is enriched with Vitamins B, C, and E. It has a homogenized emulsion that will protect the scalp from the harmful UVA and UVB rays.
The key ingredients of this sunscreen include titanium dioxide, octynoxate, and octysalate. Meanwhile, the inactive ingredients include water, glycerin, safflower seed oil, green tea leaf extract, and French rose extract, among other things.
Anthony Day Cream SPF 30
Like the other products above, this is formulated for the face. However, there’s no reason why it cannot be equally effective when you use it for the scalp. It has a moisturizing and hydrating formula that your skin can easily absorb.
Vitamin E and soy are two of the main ingredients in this sunscreen that will be beneficial for the scalp. They also support the natural exfoliation process, which is a good way to prevent your scalp from being rough and dry.
Tips and Tricks for Taking Care of your Bald Head
Aside from choosing and using a high-quality sunscreen, below are the best things you can do to care for your bald head:
Wear a hat, especially when it is extremely hot or when you are out when the sun is at its peak. Like sunscreen, it provides a protective barrier to help prevent damage.
Trim your head regularly. Investing in a razor or an electric shaver is a must. This makes it easier to get rid of the tiny hair strands that will grow on the surface. The frequency of shaving will depend on how quick your hair grows.
Pay attention to your anti-dandruff treatment, even if you have no hair, the scalp can end up drying, and this is when you have to deal with dandruff.
Apply a moisturizer. In the case of most sunscreens, they have active ingredients that protect against UVA and UVB rays, but there are no ingredients that can moisturize the scalp, which can result in dryness and roughness. Regular moisturizing will help solve this problem.
Give yourself a scalp massage once in a while. Aside from being relaxing, this is also a good way to promote blood flow. If you want your hair to grow, it can also stimulate hair growth.
Conclusion
Bald is beautiful! It is also convenient since you don’t have to worry about your hairstyle. However, this does not mean that you don’t have to take care of your bald head.
Among other products, one of the most important is the best sunscreen for bald heads. Like how sunscreen protects your skin from UV damage, it does the same thing for your scalp. It is a great way to prevent sunburn and skin cancer.
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