Your scalp contains more hair follicles than any other part of your body, and with that comes a rich blood supply, an abundance of sebaceous glands, and a highly complex nerve structure. So it’s no wonder why many of us struggle with oily, flaky, itchy and sensitive scalps!
Knowing the importance of scalp health not only lets us grow strong and shiny hair, but helps us to avoid these common problems that can have a huge impact on our self-esteem and confidence.
Here are my five expert recommendations to support your scalp health.
1. Have a skincare routine for your scalp
Just like our face, we need to cleanse our scalp. It’s important to regularly use a shampoo to remove dirt, oil, and product build-up that can collect in the hair follicles and lead to scalp problems. However, avoid over-washing, which can strip the scalp of its natural oils and cause dryness.
Tip: Look for shampoos that are specifically formulated for scalp health that can help remove build-up without stripping the hair.
Product recommendation: Detox Dynamo Shampoo
2. Support the scalp microbiome
The scalp microbiome plays an important role in maintaining scalp health by helping to prevent the growth of harmful pathogens, regulating the pH balance of the scalp, and supporting the immune system. Scaling and flaking are a sign of a disrupted microbiome, so if you’re struggling with this look for anti-fungal and exfoliant ingredients like piroctone olamine and salicylic acid.
Tip: If you have a flaky scalp opt for products with anti-fungal and exfoliant ingredients.
Product recommendation: Care Taker Scalp Tonic
3. Don’t ignore itching
An itchy scalp is a common problem, and if you are experiencing itching occasionally it’s nothing to worry about. But regular itching or an increase in intensity can be a sign of an underlying issue and shouldn’t be ignored. Scalp itching can be caused by inflammatory conditions like dermatitis, hair loss, nerve problems, and can be linked to psychological health as in anxiety and stress.
Tip: If you’re struggling with itching get it checked out and switch to fragrance free products to reduce irritation.
Product recommendation: Care Take Unscented Shampoo
4. Treat yourself to a massage
Scalp massage is an important practice to bring essential nutrients and oxygen to support scalp health and hair growth. Scalp massage can also help to relax the muscles in the scalp and neck, reducing tension and stress. Gentleness is key here to avoid redness, soreness and hair breakage – it’s also best avoided if you have a sensitive scalp.
Tip: Massage your scalp regularly with gentle circular motions using your fingertips or a soft silicone massager
Product recommendation: Noughty Scalp Massager
5. Take a holistic approach
An unhappy scalp can mean an unhappy body, and our diet can play a role in this. A diet rich in nutrients like vitamins A, C, D, and E, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids supports scalp health. These ingredients can be beneficial in products too, like sea kelp extract which is packed with vitamins and minerals.
Tip: Prioritise a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats, and look for these in your products too.
Product recommendation: Wave Hello Curl Butter 3-in-1 Treatment