The most important part of your hair care routine is the scalp, and it's easy to forget because many of us are unsure how to take care of it properly. Here at ShineForth Salon, scalp care is a crucial topic. The scalp is your first line of defense against environmental stressors like pollution and sun exposure, which cause scalp sensitivity and hair damage. It also helps keep the rest of your body in check!
So, how do you know if you have an unhealthy scalp? Check for the following symptoms:
Itching
Bumps on the scalp
Extreme dandruff
Hairfall
Other common scalp issues include atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis (scaly patches).
Before you panic, understand that there's a solution to every problem! A simple lifestyle change could make a world of difference to your scalp and overall hair health. I made a simple guide on how to build a proper scalp care routine for you.
Creating Your Scalp Care Routine
Opt for gentle formulas
I'm an advocate of sulfate-free hair products, which are already proven to improve scalp health. Sulfates tend to strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to a dry and flaky scalp. Also, avoid products containing alcohol or fragrances as these may also irritate the scalp. Your goal is to have well-moisturized, shiny hair—not frizzy and damaged.
Wash your hair less
I think it's time to debunk the myth that washing your hair more frequently can eliminate oily scalp. Shampooing too often can strip your hair of its natural moisture, making your scalp produce more oils to keep it hydrated. A good rule of thumb is to wash your hair three to four times a week at the most. If you have lots of buildup on the scalp and hair, you may need to shampoo twice, keeping shampoo towards the scalp area, so the ends don't dry out.
Antioxidants are your best friend
Healthy hair starts with a healthy gut. Strive to eat a balanced diet consisting of foods rich in antioxidants. These include broccoli, spinach, avocados, sweet potatoes, and kale. Spices are also great!
Try hair supplements
The scalp is home to an army of bacteria, fungi, and other organisms. Because of this, many people choose to upgrade their diet with certain types of herbs or other supplements to help keep their scalp healthy from the inside out.
There are many different types of hair supplements available on the market today—but here are my favorites:
The Bottomline
Hair health starts at the scalp, not the other way around. I hope the abovementioned tips will help you begin a new journey towards your best hair! And if things still don't go as you had planned, it's best to see a dermatologist for professional advice.