(HealthDay News) -- People who lose their hair -- temporarily from chemotherapy or disease, or permanently -- are more vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer on the scalp and face.

The U.S. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases suggests how to help protect the skin after hair loss:

• Apply sunscreen on any exposed area, including the face and scalp.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun's glare.
• Don a scarf, hat or wig to shield the scalp from sun exposure and provide warmth.
• If you've lost nose hair, apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment inside the nostrils.