During prolonged outdoor activities in hot weather, many people overlook the fact that the skin on their scalp is also at risk of sunburn. Dermatologist Dr. Ke Boheng shared on his Facebook page 4 common signs of scalp sunburn, along with 3 practical sun protection tips to help everyone protect their scalp and hair follicles during the scorching summer months.
Warning Sign 1: Part Lines and Hairlines Are Easily Burned
Many assume that hair provides enough coverage, but areas like part lines, crown whorls, and hairlines are actually directly exposed to sunlight. UVB rays can directly burn the epidermal cells on the scalp. Repeated sunburn damages the skin barrier, making the scalp highly sensitive and fragile to any subsequent external irritation.
Warning Sign 2: UV Rays Damage the Skin Barrier, Leading to Dehydration
A sudden increase in dandruff after sun exposure is often not due to shampoo or diet, but because UV rays have damaged the scalp's natural sebum barrier. When the skin barrier is compromised, the scalp becomes dry and dehydrated, accelerating abnormal shedding and producing fine, dry dandruff accompanied by persistent itching—completely different from oily dandruff.
Warning Sign 3: Chronic Follicle Inflammation Damages Dermal Papilla Cells
UVA rays can penetrate the dermis, directly affecting the microvessels and connective tissue around the hair follicles. Repeated prolonged exposure can lead to chronic inflammation of the hair follicles. Damaged dermal papilla cells cause hair roots to grow thinner and more brittle. In severe cases, this can lead to diffuse hair loss.
Warning Sign 4: Accelerated Scalp Aging and Follicle Shrinkage
Most people apply sunscreen to their face and limbs but often forget that the scalp also needs UV protection. Every unprotected outdoor exposure silently accelerates scalp skin aging, leading to follicle shrinkage and damage to pigment cells, causing long-term harm to scalp health.
3 Sun Protection Measures: Use Scalp Sunscreen Spray – Focus on Part Lines
To protect the scalp from UV damage, doctors recommend the following three sun protection measures before going out:
- Use Scalp-Specific Sunscreen: Choose a scalp sunscreen spray or powder with SPF, focusing application on exposed areas like part lines, crown whorls, and hairlines.
- Prioritise Physical Sun Protection: Wear a wide-brimmed hat or use a UV-protective headscarf. This is especially important for those with thinning hair or concerns about hair loss.
- Avoid Peak UV Hours: Try to limit prolonged outdoor activity between 10 AM and 2 PM, when UV intensity is at its strongest.
Source: Dermatologist Dr. Ke Boheng
