Yes, hair sunscreen is a thing and an uber-important thing, at that. Not only do the sun's rays damage your skin, but they can also do a number on your hair and warp your color. Hair sunscreens are UV-filtering products that put a protective barrier between your hair and said rays, and they protect your scalp against damage, too.
Since a sunburned scalp is about as much fun as a bag of rocks, make sure you arm yourself with hair sunscreen for your subsequent trips to the beach, mmmkay pumpkin? Look, we've even done the shopping for you:
1. Bare Republic UV Protecting Haircare Collection
Sunscreen brand Bare Republic now has a whole line of hair care products that provide UV protection. From shampoo and conditioner to a serum and back to a dry shampoo, Bare Republic pretty much has you covered this summer. (Bare Republic, $12 to $14)
2. Clarins Sunscreen Care Oil Spray Broad Spectrum SPF 30
3. Phytoplage Protective Sun Oil
Phytoplage Protective Sun Oil prevents your hair from being weakened by the sun and preserves that shine you love so much. Simply spray on dry or wet hair before heading outside, and reapply after swimming. (Beauty.com, $30)
4. TRESemme Climate Control Spray
TRESemme Climate Control Spray isn't just budget-friendly — it's everything-friendly. This formula fights humidity, static, wind and UV rays. Seriously, I'm surprised it doesn't come with a cape. (Ulta, $6)
5. Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil heat/UV protective primer
Bumble and Bumble is famous for their beach waves spray, so it's only natural they offer some UV protection, too. Their invisible oil truly is a "mist of many wonders." (Bumble and Bumble, $28)
6. bareMinerals SPF30 Natural Sunscreen
bareMinerals SPF30 Natural Sunscreen protects without a heavy, greasy finish. You can easily sweep it over your part line and any thinning areas of your scalp. Just rub it in to blend, and you're good to go. (BeautyBay, $34)
7. Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil
It doesn't get much easier than this: Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil is a lightweight, waterproof mist that protects your hair from UV rays for up to 16 hours. It helps to minimize color fading, damage and dehydrated strands — and smells ah-mazing! (Aveda, $28)
8. Banana Boat Quick Dri Sport Sunscreen
Banana Boat Quick Dri Sport Sunscreen is for both your body and scalp, and has the added bonus of being waterproof. It's a clear, non-greasy formula that dries uber-fast. (Walgreens, $9)
More: The Best Under-$10 Drugstore Sunscreens for Every Skin Type
Originally published July 2014. Updated May 2017.