The Top 8 Scalp Sunscreens We Tried in Summer 2025

We love a versatile product with multiple uses. That’s why we were particularly interested in exploring powder sunscreen options. This dermatologist-recommended brush-on mineral sunscreen powder from Colorescience offers water-resistant protection for up to 80 minutes and can be applied to your face, décolletage, and scalp. The formula is also safe for sensitive skin. What more could you ask for?

While all these features are impressive, we especially love the tinted aspect of this product. Some scalp sunscreens can leave a cast behind, temporarily discoloring the hair and scalp, but the tint on this product nixes that issue. There are only four pigment options, but it’s lightweight enough to blend into various hair colors and go on many different skin types quite sheerly. When Everyday Health writer Katie Tuttle tested this product, she was doubtful of its water-resistant powers. “I was very skeptical that I wouldn’t sweat this off within 20 minutes, but it held up quite well during regular walks,” she says. That being said, be sure to apply with a light hand — it is easy to go overboard with this powder. Also, be careful if you’re tossing the brush inside your bag when you’re on the go. The bottom can become unscrewed and create a big mess. All snags aside, we are confident in this product’s ability to deliver.

I personally tested this product and was immediately pleased by its light texture. I have curly hair that can get easily tangled if a product is too heavy, but this one felt so light I almost forgot I had it on. The mist was quite fine, too, which was nice, but it is worth noting that I had to make sure I pressed down on the nozzle for a full spray to get that fine mist. When I first attempted to use the product, I gave the nozzle a gentle press, and it came out in droplets. Also, I do wish that it had a higher SPF, and it would be great if I could spray it on my face too, but this product is just for the hair and scalp. These are minor drawbacks though. Consider this a hair product that protects, nourishes, and delivers a light fragrance in a portable bottle that travels well.

A key aspect of this formula is that it only has four ingredients. In addition to zinc oxide, the hypoallergenic formula uses organic sunflower oil, beeswax, and sunflower vitamin E to nourish and protect the skin. However, due to its thick, creamy texture, this formula is only an appropriate scalp sunscreen for those with no hair on their head. Everyday Health writer Brittany Vargas noted how easily it absorbs. “Compared to many other mineral sunscreens, it absorbs quickly, especially considering how thick and creamy it is,” she says. She also explains that it offers substantial protection without leaving a white cast. Interested in this product, but have a full head of hair? It is still great to use on the face and body.

Out of all the sunscreen products I’ve tried, this is my absolute favorite. This small but mighty bottle can be used on your face and scalp. It plays well with makeup, so you can spray it over your face after you’ve gotten done up for the day. It is also light enough that it doesn’t feel thick on your scalp or hair. I love that it’s the perfect size to throw in my purse. I’ll spray it on my scalp when I’m out and about and on my neck and face if I’m stuck in traffic on a sunny day. I’ve even used it on my hands when I’m driving and they’re in direct sunlight. We aren’t kidding when we call Ors + Alps Face + Scalp Mist the most versatile scalp sunscreen out there.

This product gets things started on a good foot with its clever packaging. Its small spray nozzle has a practical cover that protects against potential leaks when throwing it in a bag while on the go. The formula sprays in an even, decently light mist that dries quickly on the scalp. Keep in mind that this formula does contain alcohol and fragrance, in case you have sensitive skin. After personally testing it, I can vouch for its staying power through sweat and beyond on a hot day. My thick curly hair and exposed part remained unfazed by the sun even during a long day of running errands in the heat.

While many may prefer a spray for their scalp sunscreen, there are some circumstances where a stick can be more convenient. For example, I tend to wear my hair slicked back into a low bun, so my part is fully exposed. A sunscreen stick allows for easy application when my hair is in this style. Folks with bald heads may similarly benefit. We love the Sun Bum Premium Sunscreen Face Stick for its compact packaging, variety of uses, and clean formula sans pore-clogging ingredients. That’s why it nabbed our pick for the best scalp sunscreen stick.

This product’s greatest selling point is how convenient it is to use. “I felt it was so easy to apply, I was more likely to reach for it when I needed to reapply throughout the day,” says Everyday Health writer Mary Sauer. She explained that she was less likely to get a burn for that reason. Plus, it offers a nice, smooth application with no greasy residue, which is ideal when swiping it down a parted hairline. This stick can also be used all over the body, so it’s perfect for travel. Some may opt to use this on their kids too, because it’s so easy to apply, but be sure to chat with your pediatrician to make sure this product is a good fit for your little ones. Heads up — its thick texture means it won’t work for all hairstyles, and it also contains a light fragrance. Despite these notes, we find this product to be handy for many different uses, making it a great value.

If it isn’t obvious enough yet, we love a product that can be used in a variety of ways. Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Translucent Sunscreen Powder is a translucent powder designed for the face. However, we found it also works for scalp application, especially along the part. Hawaiian Tropic is known for its quality products that are sold at drugstores. Since this is an easy-to-use, affordable, and easily accessible find, we feel it is the best drugstore scalp sunscreen option out there.

Things happen on long days spent away from home, especially when vacationing. It is easy to forget key essentials, including sunscreen. Having a go-to drugstore pick boosts the chances that you’ll be able to get the protection you want, no matter where you are. This powder sunscreen is translucent and truly performs on that front. I am a Black woman with very dark, curly hair. I expected this product to leave a light hue of powder on my hairline, but it didn’t at all. It’s also designed to absorb excess oil. This was great for using on my face during a particularly sweaty day. It also helps keep my roots from appearing oily. The biggest issue with this product is that it isn’t water-resistant. So skip this pick if you’re going swimming, and be prepared to reapply it if you’re extra dewy on a hot day.