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With the sun shining brighter and warmer days ahead, it's time for beach trips, picnics, and outdoor fun. But hold up — while we're diligent about slathering on sunscreen for our faces and bodies, let's not forget about our hair and scalp! Turns out, they need some TLC too, especially when it comes to fending off those UV rays.

According to the wise words of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Neda Mehr, leaving our locks and scalp unprotected is a big no-no. They're right there, soaking in all that sunlight, which can spell trouble like skin cancer if we're not careful.

Dr. Mehr explained to E! that skin cancer cases often occur on the scalp, emphasizing, "A lot of times we see people who get skin cancer in their hair part." She noted the hair's role in providing some protection to the skin, leading to a higher incidence of cancer in this area. However, Dr. Mehr cautioned that the sun can still damage the hair itself, elaborating on the hair's protective cuticle. "The hair has an outer sheath called a cuticle that protects the hair," she said, "but UVA and UVB rays from the sun can burn that cuticle down and cause frayed, frizzy hair that's easily broken. It's similar to if you use a hairdryer on a very hot setting."

How do you protect your hair and scalp from the sun?

According to Dr. Mehr, there's nothing as good as a hat to provide physical protection against the sun. "Not a visor that just protects your face," she said. Rather, you should opt for "a full hat that covers your scalp." 

Additionally, don't forget to shield your skin with sunscreen, such as EltaMD's Aero spray sunscreen, a personal recommendation from Dr. Mehr. As you prioritize sun protection, take a peek at our curated selection of hair care products tailored to elevate your daily routine. Explore these options below.

Dr. Mehr recommends this spray sunscreen from EltaMD to protect your scalp. It's lightweight, non-greasy and contains zinc oxide, which provides protection from UVA and UVB rays. Just keep in mind that it may leave a white residue due to the titanium and zinc.

If there's one product you have to add to your routine on this list, make it this one. Bumble and Bumble's best-selling Hairdresser's Invisible Oil is a multipurpose leave-in treatment that fights frizz, detangles, conditions, and contains UV filters to protect the hair from the sun. It's also a highly-rated product with over 132.6 thousand "loves" on Sephora. 

This lightweight hair oil from Ouai was made to give you super glossy and super smooth hair while also providing protection against heat and UV damage. As a major bonus, it smells really, really good too!

Coola's scalp and hair sunscreen was specifically made to protect your head from the sun. It's made with certified organic ingredients, is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, and has a natural sea salt scent that fans of the product love. Plus, it's lightweight and won't wear your hair down. 

The Sugar Beach Sun Creme from Kenra Professional was made to provide sun protection against color fading, as well as add some shine to your hair. According to reviews, this product is a must-have for your beach bag. One reviewer wrote, "I have tried a ton of air dry products, and none compare to this! It makes my hair manageable, shiny, and really enhances my waves without feeling heavy or sticky. Best part is, I can brush through my hair when it's dry with this in it. You only just a tiny amount per section of hair and you'll end up with perfect waves! I'll never be without this product!"

Living Proof's Restore Perfecting Spray is a multipurpose product that was made to detangle, smooth and straighten hair, and provide protections against heat and UV rays. It's top-rated spray that reviewers say leave their hair feeling "so soft and shiny."

This "weightless" hair spray from Oribe was made to protect hair from heat styling, the harmful effects of UV rays and pollution. It also features the brand's signature scent which has notes of Calabrian bergamot, white butterfly jasmine, and sandalwood. 

Aveda makes some of our favorite hair care products like the Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair that just leaves your hair feeling super soft afterwards. So we have no doubts that their Sun Care Protective Hair Veil will keep your hair protected and in great condition. It's a lightweight, water-resistant mist that was formulated to protect your hair from the sun for up to 16 hours.   

This hair cream from Kerastase is made with hydrating ingredients like coconut water and vitamin E, as well as UV filters to minimize that sun's effects on your hair. You can use on dry or towel-dried hair, and can be used before or after sun exposure. 

This one is a little more of a splurge, but it's on we think it's worth it. Colorscience's Sunforgettable Brush-On Sunscreen is also a product that Dr. Mehr recommends. "It's really nice because you can brush it up on your hairline and on your scalp," she said. It protects you from UVA/UVB rays, pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. It's also available in multiple shades to match different skin tones.

If you're looking for more summer beauty essentials, we've got the best sunscreen face sprays that aren't just easy to apply but also won't ruin your makeup (total win-win)!

—Originally published April 8, 2022, at 2:36 p.m. PT

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