We often think of sunburn and heat rash as problems that only happen on the arms, face, or shoulders. But your scalp can also suffer, especially if you’re spending time outdoors without a hat. If you’ve ever felt an itchy or painful scalp after a sunny day, you might wonder: is it sunburn or just a heat rash?
Knowing the difference between these two skin issues is important, because the way you treat them isn’t the same. Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can better protect your scalp and treat any damage quickly.
What Is a Scalp Sunburn?
A sunburn on scalp happens when your skin gets too much sun without protection. Just like your skin elsewhere, your scalp can burn under strong UV rays. This usually happens when your hair is thin, your part is wide, or you’ve shaved your head recently. The sun directly hits the skin, leading to redness, soreness, and sometimes peeling.
You’ll likely notice the burn a few hours after sun exposure. It may feel tight, hot, or painful to touch. In some cases, the skin may blister or flake. You might also see your scalp start to itch as it begins to heal.
What Is a Heat Rash on the Scalp?
Heat rash, also called “prickly heat,” is a bit different. It’s not caused by sunburn, but by sweat getting trapped under your skin. This usually happens in hot, humid weather when your sweat glands get blocked. It can also occur if you wear a hat or helmet for too long without airflow.
A heat rash on your scalp might feel itchy or tingly. It can look like small red bumps or tiny blisters, but it usually doesn’t peel or hurt like sunburn. The good news? Heat rash tends to go away faster once your skin cools down and has a chance to breathe.
How to Tell the Difference
It can be tricky to tell these two apart, but here are some simple ways:
- Timing: Sunburn on scalp usually appears a few hours after sun exposure. Heat rash can show up while you’re still in the heat.
- Feel: Sunburn feels sore or hot. Heat rash feels itchy or prickly.
- Look: Sunburn may turn your scalp red and later cause peeling. Heat rash shows up as small, red bumps or clear blisters.
- Triggers: Sunburn is from direct sunlight. Heat rash happens when sweat can’t escape, often under hats or in humid weather.
How to Treat Scalp Sunburn
If your scalp is sunburned, take it easy for a few days. Stay out of the sun and skip harsh shampoos or styling products. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and cool water to wash your hair. You can apply aloe vera gel or a soothing scalp serum to help calm the skin.
Avoid scratching or picking at peeling skin. Let it heal naturally. If the sunburn is very painful or you notice blisters, you may want to talk to a doctor or use an over-the-counter pain reliever.
How to Treat Heat Rash
Treating heat rash is all about cooling your scalp. Remove any hats or headwear and give your scalp some fresh air. Rinse your scalp with cool water and use a mild shampoo to remove sweat and oil. Avoid thick conditioners or styling products that could block pores.
Try to keep your head cool, especially in hot and humid conditions. A fan, air conditioning, or even a damp cloth can help soothe the rash. Most cases clear up in a day or two with proper care.
Tips to Prevent Both
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat or use SPF spray designed for the scalp if you’re outdoors often.
- Avoid wearing tight hats for long periods in the heat.
- Wash your hair regularly to keep sweat and oil from building up.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade during sunny days.
Your scalp deserves just as much care as the rest of your skin. Whether it’s a sunburn or a heat rash, knowing what you’re dealing with helps you heal faster and avoid future problems. If you’re looking for detailed tips on how to care for sunburn on scalp, including product suggestions and long-term prevention, the Renee Rouleau blog has a helpful guide worth reading.
