The 13 Best Scalp Sunscreens, Because Yes, You Should Be Using One

Best For Reapplication

Tap some of this mineral SPF powder onto your scalp for 80 minutes of protection. It's sweat proof and offered in multiple shades to match your tone so you aren't left with any white residue. The high SPF and translucent powder makes it the best option if you often find yourself needing to reapply throughout the day.

Best Versatile Scalp Sunscreen

Apply this mist in your part (and your whole body) and experience protection that isn't greasy or visible. Reapply after time in the water to ensure you are staying fully guarded from the rays. The airless spray is super light and won't turn your hair oily, plus your scalp gets to benefit from the added Vitamin C.

Best Travel Scalp Sunscreen

Dust this nourishing powder on your head to deter the itchy scalp sunburn. Use on your face or in your part to blur any sweaty or oily areas without getting a powdery residue. The pocket-sized packaging is super sleek and small so you can easily pop it in your purse while you're on the go.

Best Light SPF Scalp Sunscreen

Use your favorite brush to tap this product into the visible parts of your hairline. This one has a lower SPF if you aren't going to be in the sun as long or don't need as much coverage—the perfect choice for long car rides on sunny days.

Best Hydrating Scalp Sunscreen

If you prefer a spray over powder, this 80-minute protectant will nourish and hydrate your skin. It contains organic ingredients and is waterproof.

Best Serum Scalp Sunscreen

This gel can be used on your scalp, hairline and face—talk about versatile. It won't matte down your hair or leave a sticky film behind. It has 40 minutes of protection and can be easily reapplied if you need longer shielding.

Best Overall Scalp Sunscreen

This 100 percent mineral sunscreen comes out as a cloud of powder, hence the “poof” name. This formula also contains silica to absorb excess oils, making it a dry shampoo of sorts. One thing to note: It can appear white when you first spray it on, so be sure to blend it in with your fingertips or a brush. And some reviewers note that it leaves a grayish cast in darker hair, making it best for blondes.

Best Spray Scalp Sunscreen

Looking for a scalp sunscreen that requires a little less effort? Sun Bum’s Sunscreen Scalp Spray should do the trick. Simply spritz this quick-drying SPF onto your scalp and rub it in with your fingers. Don’t worry about getting some in your hair—this mist is super lightweight so it won’t leave your strands feeling sticky or greasy. According to one reviewer, it’s great for your easy-to-burn hairline too.

Best Drugstore Scalp Sunscreen

We’ve been using Banana Boat sunscreen for years, so we totally trust this scalp iteration. It’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes and is reef friendly since it doesn’t contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, which makes it a total winner in our book.

Best For Scalp and Hair

This scalp sunscreen actually nourishes your hair as it protects your delicate skin. Coola’s Scalp & Hair Mist contains monoi oil and panthenol, a moisturizing agent from vitamin B5, to lock in hair color, moisturize, increase shine and prevent breakage. So go ahead, spritz it over your entire scalp and locks if you want.

Best Brush-On Scalp Sunscreen

Brush On Block’s translucent Mineral Sunscreen Powder dispenses easily through the brush for light coverage that’s almost undetectable. And the portable design makes it ideal for throwing in your pool bag.

Best Scalp Sunscreen for Exercise

As the sport label suggests, this face and scalp sunscreen is made to stay put whether you’re going for a run or swimming laps. It’s water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you’ll remain protected throughout your workout. Plus, we love that it can be used on both the face and scalp so we don’t have to add an extra step to our workout prep.

Best Scalp Sunscreen for Skincare Minimalists

Prefer to keep your skincare routine as bare bones as possible? We hear you. This Shiseido formula is so lightweight and residue-free, it can be used on the face, body and scalp without issue. In other words, you can forgo three different types of SPF for this one convenient bottle.