Locations:
SearchAdvertisement
The Short Answer from a dermatologist
A: Not only does a thick, lustrous head of hair speak volumes about a person’s overall health. It also serves to protect the skin of your scalp from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
If your hairline recedes, however, that protection goes along with it. Men and women alike should remember to apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to the crown of the scalp — or to look for a fashionable, wide-brimmed hat with sun-protective fabric, measured in UPF.
—Dermatologist Alok Vij, MD
Advertisement
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
Decisions you make regarding smoking, alcohol use, meal choices and exercise can make a big difference
Eating red and processed meats can raise your risk of developing certain types of cancer
Both can protect you from the sun’s rays, but they do it in different ways
Your skin tone determines if a sunburn becomes a suntan
Working with a therapist, staying active and practicing mindfulness are just a few ways to help manage stress
You can still get a tan (a sign of skin damage) while wearing sunscreen
Ice and ice-cold water can damage tissue, restrict blood flow and delay the healing process
Your skin care routine doesn’t need to be overly involved — or expensive
If you’re feeling short of breath, sleep can be tough — propping yourself up or sleeping on your side may help
If you fear the unknown or find yourself needing reassurance often, you may identify with this attachment style
If you’re looking to boost your gut health, it’s better to get fiber from whole foods
