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The Best Hair SPF for Summer
By Carly Cochrane
-
2 years ago | Updated
We know that looking after your locks is the least of your worries as you soak up the summer sun, however, we’ve burnt our scalps one too many times to know that you simply can’t skimp on sun protection for your hair.
That’s right, those damaging UV rays take no prisoners and will sizzle everything from your scalp to your strands if you step out into the sun unprotected.
As experts explain, the skin on your scalp is just as prone to sunburn as the rest of your body and should therefore be treated the same. If not, persistent sun exposure can cause strands to turn dry and brittle, whilst a burnt scalp can damage hair follicles and lead to potential hair loss and skin cancer – yikes!
We're aware that the idea of slathering factor 50 onto your parting doesn’t sound too pleasant, so we’ve rounded up the best hair SPF on the market. With everything from SPF oils to sprays and creams on offer, you're bound to find your new summer essential.
Best Lightweight Hair SPF Spray for Daily UV Protection
Bumble and bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat & UV Protective Primer
£21.82 £30.00 (28% off)Acting as an invisible shield to protect against the drying effects of UV rays, be sure to keep this mists close at hand when you're catching some sun. Simple and effortless to apply, this lightweight 'protective primer' spray casts an undetectable screen over your hair to provide effective protection against the sort of exposure that often leads to damage and dryness.
Best Dry Oil Hair SPF for Colour Protection
Macadamia Sun Shield Dry Oil Veil
£15.55This all in-one dry oil works as a UV protector and thanks to UV filters developed for hair, it protects the hairs hydration and colour during sun exposure while also protecting the hair from the intense summer sun.
Best Hair SPF for Beachy Texture and Heat Defence
L'Anza Healing Style Beach Spray
£5.12 £27.26 (82% off)Achieve style and protection all in one go with this style beach spray. Your precious tresses will be covered on all fronts with cactus extract, which defends against heat damage, along with that all important UV protection that's essential in warmer climes.
Best Hair and Body SPF Oil for Strong Sun Exposure
Institut Esthederm Protective Sun Care Oil For Body & Hair Strong Sun
£44.80 £56.00 (20% off)Before you head out in the sun protect and shield your hair with this formula. It has a weightless, non-greasy texture which provides long-lasting UV defence. Not to mention, it's made to use on the body too making it a summer all-in-one essential.
Best Water-Resistant Hair SPF for Swimming
Philip Kingsley Swimcap Water Resistant Mask
£22.50 £25.00 (10% off)Whether you're a bleached-blonde babe or dark and mysterious brunette, this water-resistant hair mask from Philip Kingsley ensures that your locks are protected from sea water, chlorine, and sun damage, thanks to its added UV protection.
Best Nourishing Hair SPF Oil for Moderate Sun
Institut Esthederm Protective Sun Care Oil For Body & Hair Moderate Sun
£38.74 £44.80 (14% off)Enhance, protect and stimulate skin and hair in tandem with this dry oil from Institut Esthederm. The hair and skin can be protected from normal to strong UV rays whilst it nourishes, without that oily residue that can be left behind by other oils.
Best Styling Hair SPF for Beach Waves
Fudge Professional Salt Spray With All Day Hold & UV Protection
£17.27Create gorgeous summer hair styles – all year long – with this unique texturising spray from Fudge Professional. Enriched with sea kelp, red algae and ocean salt minerals, the pro-grade salt spray adds raw texture and body to flat hair. What’s more, it features a UVisiShield technology to strengthen and protect hair against UV damage. Beach waves have never looked (or felt) so good!
Best Leave-In Hair SPF for Soft, Styled Waves
Bumble and bumble Surf Styling Leave-In
£25.50This leave-in cream is just what you need for sunny holiday breaks. Utilising a beach protective blend, red seaweed and a flexi-style blend, it provides UV protection and adds a light hold so you can style your hair for beautiful beachy waves.
FAQs
Why do you need SPF for hair?
UV rays can damage the hair cuticle, fade colour, dry out strands and irritate or burn the scalp. Hair SPF helps protect both the scalp and hair fibres from sun-related damage.
What does hair SPF do?
Hair SPF products use UV filters and antioxidants to shield hair from sun exposure. They help prevent dryness, brittleness, colour fading and scalp irritation caused by UV rays.
Can you use regular sunscreen on your scalp?
Traditional sunscreen can feel heavy or greasy on the scalp. Hair SPF sprays, oils and mists are specifically designed to protect the scalp and hair without weighing it down.
How often should you reapply hair SPF?
Reapply every few hours when spending time in direct sunlight, especially after swimming, sweating or brushing your hair.
Is hair SPF safe for coloured or bleached hair?
Yes—and it’s strongly recommended. UV exposure can fade colour and weaken processed hair, so hair SPF helps maintain vibrancy and strength.
Can hair SPF replace heat protection?
Not always. Some hair SPF products include heat protection, but many don’t. If you use hot tools, check the label or layer a dedicated heat protectant.
More haircare tips
So there you have it, the best hair SPFs to keep your tresses protected in the heat! Now that you're up to scratch with how to keep your hair soft and sumptuous this summer, why not check out the Most Common Sunscreen Myths Unravelled so you can really be on your A-game?
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Written by Carly Cochrane
As the Senior Content Editor for Cosmetify, Carly is the go-to for all the latest (and greatest) beauty tips, tricks and trends. With over six years of experience in the industry, she knows all the ins-and-outs when it comes to health, beauty and wellbeing.
