Summer sun exposure can leave hair feeling dry, brittle, and faded—especially when combined with chlorine or salt water. Adding a UV-protective product to your routine can help maintain hair’s moisture, vibrancy, and overall health during the season.
How we choose
This roundup highlights 8 options ranging from gentle shampoos to targeted leave-in treatments and scalp sunscreens. Each offers a different approach to shielding hair from UV rays, so you can choose what fits your habits—whether you’re a swimmer, a beachgoer, or simply someone who wants daily protection without added weight.
Our 8 Picks
Sun BumRevitalizing Shampoo - Hydrating and Restoring Hair - Gently Clean and Restore - UV Protecting - Vegan - Made Without Parabens - 10 oz
What it is
Sun Bum Revitalizing Shampoo is a hydrating shampoo formulated to gently cleanse and restore hair while providing UV protection.
Why it's worth it
This shampoo is well-suited for daily use in sunny climates, as it helps protect hair from UV damage that can cause dryness and fading. The formula includes coconut oil and banana extract to nourish and restore moisture. It is vegan and free from parabens, making it a straightforward choice for those seeking a gentle, UV-protective wash. Use it as part of a routine to maintain healthy-looking hair during summer activities.
Caveat
As a shampoo, it is not a leave-on spray, so UV protection is limited to the wash period and may require complementary products for continuous protection.
SU/Leave-In Hair Milk, UV & Heat Protection, Hydrating Post-Sun Spray, 4.6 Fl Oz
What it is
Davines SU/Leave-In Hair Milk is a spray that detangles and provides UV and heat protection for all hair types.
Why it's worth it
This spray is well-suited for beach or pool days, as it shields strands from sun exposure while adding softness and shine without weighing hair down. It contains bitter orange extract for antioxidant benefits. Brand states it offers UV and heat protection up to 230°C (446°F). Apply to damp or dry hair for a quick refresh after swimming.
Caveat
The 4.6 fl oz bottle may be smaller than some users expect for frequent reapplication.
Bumble and bumble.Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protection Leave-In Conditioner Hair Primer | Hydrating, Anti Frizz, Color Safe | All Hair Types and Textures | With Argan + Coconut Oil
What it is
Bumble and bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Leave-In Conditioner Hair Primer is a multitasking spray that hydrates and protects hair from UV and heat.
Why it's worth it
This leave-in primer is well-suited for those with dry or color-treated hair who spend time outdoors. Its 6-oil blend conditions while UV filters help defend against sun damage and color fade. Brand states it instantly delivers 86% more hydration and reduces frizz by 50% even in humidity. Apply to damp hair before styling or as a daily refresher.
Caveat
The formula contains oils that may be too heavy for very fine hair.
AvedaNutriplenish Leave-In Conditioner | Hydrates, Detangles & Replenishes Hair for 72 Hours | Heat Protectant Spray | for All Hair Types | 98% Naturally Derived*
What it is
Aveda Nutriplenish Leave-In Conditioner is a lightweight spray that hydrates, detangles, and provides heat and UV protection.
Why it's worth it
This spray is well-suited for daily use to protect hair from sun and styling tools, with a UV filter to help prevent drying. The formula is 98% naturally derived and includes a UV filter. It leaves hair feeling soft and manageable. Use on damp or dry hair for added nourishment and protection during outdoor activities.
Caveat
The UV protection is not a standalone sunscreen; it works best as part of a broader sun-care routine.
Oars + AlpsFace & Scalp Sunscreen Spray Mist, SPF 35 Facial & Hair Sunscreen, Water & Sweat Resistant, Infused with Aloe Vera + Cucumber, Summer Splash Scent, 1.5oz, 2pk
What it is
Oars + Alps Face & Scalp Sunscreen Spray Mist SPF 35 is a lightweight sunscreen mist designed for face and scalp.
Why it's worth it
This spray is well-suited for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts who need convenient sun protection for the scalp and hairline. It is water and sweat resistant for 80 minutes and contains aloe vera and cucumber for hydration. The travel-friendly 1.5oz bottles are TSA-approved. Simply spray onto exposed parts of the scalp and hair.
Caveat
The SPF 35 is lower than some dedicated hair sunscreens offering SPF 50, and the small bottle may require frequent reapplication.
PHILIP KINGSLEYSwimcap - Chlorine Hair Protection Water Resistant Mask |Swim Hair Mask, Protects Hair from Chlorine, Salt Water and UV Damage | Hair Color Protection Products | 3.38oz
What it is
Philip Kingsley Swimcap is a water-resistant pre-swim hair mask that protects hair from chlorine, salt water, and UV damage.
Why it's worth it
This mask is well-suited for swimmers and sunbathers who want to prevent color fade and dryness from pool chemicals and sun. It creates a protective barrier on the hair shaft. Apply to damp hair before swimming, then rinse after. Brand developed the original formula for Olympic swimmers. It also helps protect against green tones in blonde hair.
Caveat
It is a mask, not a spray, so application requires planning and rinsing after use.
AvedaColor Control Leave-In Treatment Light | Protects Color for Up to 12 Weeks | Heat and UV Protectant | For Fine to Medium Hair | Silicone Free | 98% Naturally Derived*
What it is
Aveda Color Control Leave-In Treatment Light is a spray that protects color-treated hair from UV and heat damage.
Why it's worth it
This treatment is well-suited for those with fine to medium color-treated hair who want to maintain vibrancy while outdoors. It contains a naturally derived UV filter from sand ginger and organic apricot oil. Brand states it reduces color fade for up to 12 weeks. Apply to damp hair and style as usual.
Caveat
The UV protection is designed for color preservation rather than full-spectrum hair sun protection.
CoolaOrganic Scalp Spray & Hair Sunscreen Mist with SPF 30, Dermatologist Tested Hair Care for Daily Protection, Vegan and Gluten Free, Ocean Salted Sage,2 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)
What it is
Coola Organic Scalp Spray & Hair Sunscreen Mist SPF 30 is a lightweight, organic spray designed for scalp and hair sun protection.
Why it's worth it
This mist is well-suited for daily use in sunny conditions, with 70%+ certified organic ingredients and a refreshing ocean salted sage scent. It helps prevent UV-related hair fading and scalp sunburn. The spray leaves no oily residue and is reef-friendly. Ideal for applying to the hair part and along the hairline.
Caveat
The 2 fl oz bottles are small; the 2-pack helps with reapplication but may still run out quickly on frequent use.
How to choose
How to choose the right uv-protectant hair products to help shield strands this summer
Takeaway
Whether you reach for a rinse-out shampoo or a targeted scalp mist, adding UV protection to your hair routine can help minimize seasonal dryness, fading, and colour loss. The eight products here offer different formats and price points, so you can pick one that fits your lifestyle without overcomplicating your morning.
