Shield Your Hair from the Sun with These UV-Protecting Sprays
Courtesy of Target
When it comes to looking after our skin, most of us know to never leave the house without applying sunscreen first. But what many people might not realize, is that our scalp and hair require daily protection against sun damage, too. "Like any other part of the body, the scalp is susceptible to the development of skin cancer, and UV rays can make hair brittle and appear frayed," explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel Maiman.
What's more, prolonged sun exposure can fade color-treated hair and leave locks looking dull or brassy. "Because the sun causes the outer hair cuticle to open, it allows moisture to escape and can also deplete melanin pigment, resulting in dry, frizzy hair, and faded salon color or lightened natural color," adds Dr. Maiman. The solution? UV-protecting sprays, which are specifically designed to defend your tresses-and your scalp, too, depending on the formula. However, while these products can help shield your hair from certain environmental factors, it's important to note that not all formulas contain SPF. Ahead, the best dermatologist-approved UV-protecting sprays for all hair types.
Top Picks
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Clarins
This spray contains SPF 30 and is designed to protect both skin and hair. The oil-based formula is incredibly nourishing and shields tresses from the drying effects of the sun, salt, and chlorine.
Shop Now: Clarins SPF 30 Sunscreen Care Oil Spray, $30, amazon.com.
Sun Bum
"The UV protection in this spray comes from chemical blockers like homosalate, avobenzone, and octisalate. It's also formulated with hydrating glycerin and sunflower seed oil, which contains fatty acids that can help the dryness associated with hair exposed to harsh sun conditions," says Dr. Maiman.
Shop Now: Sun Bum SPF 30 Scalp and Hair Mist, $14.99, target.com.
Supergoop!
"This pure mineral powder offers broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection from the sun's harmful UV rays and also doubles as a pseudo-dry shampoo by soaking up oil at the same time," says Dr. Maiman. "Even though mineral formulations have a tendency to leave a white residue or film, this powder is translucent and does not show on the scalp, hair, or clothes."
Shop Now: Supergoop! "Poof" 100% Mineral Part Powder SPF 35, $34, sephora.com.
Rita Hazan
Harsh UV rays can do a number on color-treated hair. This product is designed to prevent pigment from fading and contains a powerful mix of antioxidants and vitamins to shield strands from environmental aggressors.
Shop Now: Rita Hazan "Lock + Block" Protective Spray, $26, dermstore.com.
Coola
"Chemical blockers are the protective ingredients in this formulation, which also contains plant-derived soybean and palm extracts to condition strands and provide lightweight hydration," says Dr. Maiman. As an added bonus, the spray is packed with antioxidants that work to lock in color and restore shine.
Shop Now: Coola Suncare Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30, $26, nordstrom.com.
Aveda
This UV spray coats the hair with an invisible veil-like mist. The lightweight formula is waterproof, making it the perfect product to have on hand when lounging poolside.
Shop Now: Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil, aveda.com.
Bumble and bumble
If you're looking to protect your locks while taming frizz, this oil-based spray won't let you down. Although the formula doesn't contain SPF, it still works to shield hair from the drying effects of the sun.
Shop Now: Bumble and bumble Bb.Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer, $28, ulta.com.
Oribe
This weightless mist protects hair from the damaging effects of UV rays and heat styling tools alike. Better yet, the formula contains plant-based collagen that works to hydrate and smooth brittle and frayed strands.
Shop Now: Oribe Invisible Defense Universal Protection Hair Spray, $44, sephora.com.
Banana Boat
Super lightweight and easy to apply, Banana Boat's Hair and Scalp Defense delivers non-greasy and undetectable coverage. The fast-drying formula contains SPF 30 and is water resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Shop Now: Banana Boat Hair and Scalp Defense, $11.99, cvs.com.
Moroccanoil
This spray from Moroccanoil not only smells divine, but it also acts as a guard against color degradation, brassiness, and environmental aggressors. It's also loaded with hydrating ingredients that help protect hair against breakage and frizz.
Shop Now: Moroccanoil Protect & Prevent Spray, $28, sephora.com.
Rahua
Salt water, chlorine, and drying UV rays can zap hair of its moisture leaving you with dry-and sometimes tangled-locks. Luckily, this product undoes hair damage and is packed with fortifying oils and vitamins to maintain hair follicle health.
Shop Now: Rahua Hydration Detangler + UV Barrier, $32, dermstore.com.
