How To Treat Sunburned Scalp

We often forget that the scalp can burn just like the rest of the body! If it’s too late and your scalp is already red, the good news is that there are several ways to soothe your skin and make it more comfortable in no time. Read on for our great tips to moisturize and protect your scalp until it heals.

Table of Contents

Apply cold compresses to soothe the scalp

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Apply cold compresses to the skin for temporary pain relief. You may feel your scalp burning even when you are no longer outdoors. To give your skin some relief, you can make your own cold compress – fill a ziplock bag with ice 3/4 full and let out all the air before closing the bag. Wrap the ice pack in a damp towel and apply it to your scalp until the coolness stops.

You can apply cold compresses throughout the day as many times as you like.
You don’t have ice available? Dip a towel in cold water and fold it to fit the plastic bag. Put the bag in the freezer for 15 minutes, then take it out and apply it to your scalp. ^{[1] X Trusted Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Go to Source}

Use cool water and mild shampoo when washing your hair

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Do not use hot water when washing your hair. Use cool water to soothe your skin, and don’t stand in the shower for long so it doesn’t dry out your skin. If your scalp is really sore, you can skip the shampoo and just let cold water run over your scalp, or wash your hair with a sulfate-free moisturizing shampoo. Avoid using anti-dandruff shampoos as they contain harsh chemicals. ^{[2] X Research Source}

Sulfate is basically a cleaning agent that helps shampoo lather. It also strips the hair of its natural oils, which can be too strong for a sunburned and sensitive scalp.

Moisturize your scalp while it’s damp

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Rub a mild conditioner into your scalp to lock in moisture. Use a conditioner that doesn’t contain dimethicone, a form of silicone. Dimethicone can clog the pores on the scalp and prevent heat from escaping. Instead, use a dimethicone-free conditioner to help keep skin moisturized during the healing time, and rinse with cool water. ^{[3] X Research Sources}

If you want to keep your scalp moisturized between washes, you can spray cool water on your scalp to allow moisture, then massage a wax-free or oil-free lotion onto your scalp. Oil can clog pores on the scalp, in addition to trapping heat and sweat. You don’t need to rinse the lotion off, although it does look a bit greasy near the scalp.

Apply aloe vera gel or 1% hydrocortisone cream

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Both of these products help soothe itching and reduce swelling. You can absolutely use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or aloe vera gel throughout the day for a few days or until the scalp heals on its own. ^{[4] X Trusted Source MedlinePlus Go to Source}

Do not use pain relievers or anesthetics containing benzocaine on a sunburn. These drugs may cause irritation or allergies. ^{[5] X Trusted Source American Academy of Dermatpogy Go to Source}

Drink water throughout the day to hydrate your skin

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The body needs extra hydration because the sunburn draws fluid to the surface of the skin. This means you will be more prone to dehydration. Keep water close at hand and sip throughout the day to hydrate your body and help skin heal. ^{[6] X Trusted Source American Academy of Dermatpogy Go to Source}

Want to know if your body has enough water? Pay attention to the color of your urine – urine should be clear or light yellow. If your urine is dark yellow or amber, you need to drink more water. ^{[7] X Cleveland Clinic Trusted Source Go to Source}

Take over-the-counter pain relievers

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Ibuprofen or acetaminophen works to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Use as directed on the label and take it as soon as you notice a sunburn on your scalp, as it will help reduce inflammation. You can continue to take your pain reliever until your scalp improves, as long as you don’t exceed the recommended dose.

Because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome, do not give aspirin to children under 16 years of age for pain relief.

Don’t touch the blisters so they heal faster

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Keep the scalp dry and do not use moisturizer on the blisters. Do not puncture or drain the blister as this can cause an infection. You should only treat the sunburned skin around the blister and do not apply any products to the blister. They will heal on their own within a few days. ^{[8] X Trusted Source American Academy of Dermatpogy Go to Source}

Blisters are a sign of a second-degree sunburn, so make it a habit to cover your head when out in the sun.

Let your hair dry naturally without using heat styling tools

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Heat-generating tools such as hair dryers or straighteners can be irritating. They also heat the scalp, causing it to dry out. Avoid using heat styling tools for about a week or until the sunburn has completely healed. During that time, you should let your hair dry naturally. ^{[9] X Research Source}

You should also not use styling products, as most of these products contain chemicals that can irritate sensitive scalps. Give your skin time to heal before you start using hair products again.

Avoid the sun until the scalp heals.

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Give your skin time to heal completely to avoid further sunburn! If you need to go outside, use sunscreen on your scalp and wear a hat. Choose a wide hat so it doesn’t trap heat or press on sensitive scalps. ^{[10] X Research Source}

Don’t forget to drink water when out in the sun. Your body needs more water when the temperature is high.
Try not to go outside during the hottest part of the day (10am to 4pm).

Advice

Be gentle when brushing your hair and avoid touching your scalp. If you have long hair, don’t tie it up so you don’t hurt your scalp.
Look for spray sunscreens for the scalp at drugstores. This product is easier to use if you have thick hair.
If you are taking medication, check to see if there are any medications that make your skin sensitive to the sun. You may need to stay out of the sun while taking this medicine.

Warning

Don’t apply ice cubes directly to your scalp – you could damage sensitive skin. ^{[11] X Research Source}
If your scalp is sunburned with symptoms such as feeling lethargic, unable to drink water or a fever of up to 40 degrees Celsius, you may have heatstroke. Go to the emergency room quickly because you may also be dehydrated. ^{[12] X Trusted Source Mayo Clinic Go to Source}

Steps