Here in South Florida, we know a little about sunshine. It’s a big part of why we live and work here. But we also know that enjoying those warm, sunny days requires us to protect ourselves against the sun’s harmful rays. Sadly, many people who know better fail to apply sunscreen or take other steps to prevent sunburn or skin damage.
But even those folks who are vigilant about regularly using sunscreen on their face and body often forget about other vulnerable areas. If you’ve ever burned the top of your feet, you know the feeling. One part of the body that is often neglected when it comes to sun protection is, ironically, the part that tends to be closest to the sun: our scalp. And this can have disastrous consequences for our hair and skin health. their scalp.
Sunburn Can Cause Hair Loss
Balding individuals or those with thinning hair are particularly vulnerable to scalp sunburn and skin damage. Skin cancer can develop on any part of the skin, and the scalp is no exception. But if an increased risk of cancer isn’t enough to get you to focus on protecting your scalp, perhaps this will: severe sunburn on the scalp can cause your hair to fall out, at least temporarily. The inflammation that results from a deep scalp sunburn can trigger a short-term hair loss condition called telogen effluvium. And the
Use Scalp Sunscreen and Wear Hats
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a scalp left unprotected and exposed to the summer sun can develop skin damage in only 15 minutes. If you plan on spending time in the sun this summer, no matter where you live, regularly applying scalp sunscreen can be the easiest way to both protect and hydrate your scalp and keep your hair follicles safe from harmful UV rays.
There are numerous sunscreen products specifically formulated for use on the hair and scalp. Look for oils that incorporate UVA/UVB protection so you don’t wind up with greasy strands of hair full of thick, white sunscreen. These products also protect the hair itself from the sun, which can fade color when it oxidizes.
Even the best sunscreen is only as good as the way it is applied. Apply scalp sunscreen at least 30 minutes before sun exposure, and again after every two hours you spend outside. If you go for a swim or sweat a lot, make sure to regularly reapply the sunscreen that was diluted or washed away by that moisture. For even more protection, wear a baseball cap or stylish sunhat, which simultaneously protects both your skin and your hair follicles.
Schedule an Appointment for a Hair Loss Evaluation Today
With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to do something about your hair loss issues. If you’re ready to restore your hair to its natural, youthful appearance, we invite you to schedule an appointment at the Miami Hair Institute. To receive a personalized evaluation and treatment plan, contact us online or call our office directly at 305-925-0222.