The most important step to take for remedies for a sunburned scalp is to avoid scalp sunburn by wearing head protection. This can consist of anything from a hat to a scarf or bandanna. Sports caps are very popular for headwear, but straw, canvas, or felt hats are lightweight enough to be worn in the summer. Scarves, veils, and large bandannas can also be worn to avoid sunburned scalp.
Another way to prevent scalp sunburn is to apply sun block to the scalp. Using a sun block of at least an SPF of 20 or a broad-spectrum sun screen is recommended. Mixing sun block with water in a spray bottle is one way to apply it. This may cause hair to become oily, but there are some sun blocks that are less oily than others. Sun block can also be applied directly to areas of the scalp that have no hair. Swimming, sweating, and showering after swimming will remove a lot of the sun block, so it should be re-applied before going back into the sun.
An important step to take for sunburned scalp treatment is to avoid using shampoo in the areas of sunburned scalp. The detergents in the shampoo will irritate the burn. Apply the shampoo further down in the hair. Hair conditioner can be used on the scalp itself for cleansing and to moisturize the scalp sunburn. Above all, avoiding the urge to scratch the itchy areas of sunburned scalp is essential. Scratching will slow down the healing process.
There are also several remedies for sunburned scalp. Some sunburned scalp treatment can be done using items in the home. Cooling down the burned area is important to slow down the skin damage as well as to provide relief. Cold compresses, ice packs, or a towel soaked in ice cold water can be applied directly to sunburned scalp. Aloe vera is very helpful for treating burned skin. Vinegar has also been recommended as a good sunburned scalp treatment. This can be applied full-strength or diluted with water.
Other home remedies for sunburned scalp include applying liquid vitamin E or using Preparation H. These will provide relief as well as aid in healing the skin. Certain herbs are useful as well, including essential lavender oil and herbal tea. Oil can be applied directly to the sunburned scalp. Black tea can be brewed and then cold water can be added, then application can be done by wetting a towel in the tea mixture and applying to the scalp. The tannic acid in black tea is thought to draw the burn out, as well as help reduce redness and pain.
There are also over the counter medicines that are useful remedies for sunburned scalp. Ibuprofen is beneficial as an anti-inflammatory medication. Aspirin is also recommended for sunburned scalp treatment. It can be taken orally or crushed and diluted into a paste for direct application to the scalp. Moisturizers, salves, and any other topical application should be avoided in more serious burns as remedies for sunburned scalp. In these cases, medical attention should be sought for more appropriate sunburned scalp treatment.
