A few simple deviations to your hair care routine can make a big difference in the Healthy Scalp. It could be as simple as being more gentle when shampooing your hair or straightening your curly hair on occasion; however, there are additional tips.
Many of us neglect the health of our scalp and pay little attention to the skin on our head. Instead, when choosing shampoo, conditioner, and other hair products, we tend to focus on the profits they offer our hair.
However, the situation is different for those suffering from scalp problems. For many, the constant urge to scratch can be a distraction; seeing hair fall onto their clothes can be embarrassing, and the appearance of skin rashes can be alarming.
Learning how to care for your scalp can improve its health, provide you with peace of mind, and—perhaps—even boost your self-confidence.
What does it mean to have a healthy scalp?
Rendering to Dr Sanusi Umar, Medical Manager and dermatologist at the Dr U Hair & Skin Health center, a healthy scalp is allowed of:
- itching
- redness
- rashes
- pain
- pimples
- cysts
- sun damage
- excessive hair loss
“Lumps, scabs, and redness are signs of inflammation,” explains Dr Sharleen St. Surin-Lord, a board-certified dermatologist in Washington, D.C. “If left untreated, it can lead to hair loss that could be permanent.”
Benefits of a Healthy Scalp
The health of your scalp regulates the health of your hair. “Your scalp is identical the soil of a field. Poor soil can directly affect the health of the plants growing on it,” says Umar. “Likewise, anything that causes inflammation of the scalp can touch the health and well-being of your hair.”
Our scalp contains approximately 100,000 follicles, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. Like a seed sprouting from a tree, each follicle contains a growing hair. The follicles also harvest sebum, or oil, which helps keep the scalp moisturised and protects the skin from infection.
Hair follicles penetrate deep into the scalp and have their own microbiome. The scalp also has a microbiome. Disruption of the scalp microbiome balance has been linked to dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis (a disorder that reasons dandruff and scaly patches), and atopic dermatitis (eczema).
Scalp subjects such as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis are related with coarse hair, hair breakage, and reduced hair shine. Additionally, the poor scalp health associated with these situations can also lead to premature hair loss.
Ways to Maintain a Healthy Scalp
If none of the following options helps improve your scalp health, consult a dermatologist for advice.
Use Gentle Hair Care Products
Avoiding products that contain sulfates, alcohol, or fragrances can help improve your scalp health. “Sulfates strip the hair of its usual oils and remove dead skin cells, which can dry out the scalp and brand it more prone to irritation,” explains Umar.
“And since your skin and scalp are previously sensitive, using products containing alcohol and fragrances can strip moisture from your hair. Your hair will develop frizzy, dry, and damaged, and this can lead to inflammation that leaves you with a dry, itchy, and irritated scalp.”
Also, avoid any hair care products containing harsh chemicals, as well as hair treatments such as dyes and bleaches. These can cause injury to the hair shaft and the scalp.
Wash Your Hair Gently
Instead of scrubbing your scalp when shampooing, massage it. “This will increase circulation and prevent scalp irritation,” states St. Surin-Lord.
Wash Your Hair Less Frequently
It is natural to think that, to avoid oily hair, you should wash it more often. However, this can have negative effects. Shampooing your hair too frequently strips it of its natural oils. In turn, the scalp may produce more oil to stay hydrated—resulting in hair that looks greasy, notes Umar.
“Those who already suffer from a dry or itchy scalp could benefit from spacing out the time between washes to balance oil production,” he adds. As a general rule, Umar recommends washing your hair three to four times a week—or even more often.
Try an Omega-3 Supplement
Although the scientific evidence is not conclusive, many trust that taking a fish oil supplement can help stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss.
In a 2015 study, women who felt their hair was thinning took either a fish oil supplement (which also contained other nutrients) or a placebo. Those who took fish oil for 90 days reported increased hair growth and strength.
In another 2015 study, women with female-pattern hair loss who took a supplement containing omega-3s, omega-6s, and antioxidants for 6 months knowledgeable increased hair density and decreased hair shedding.
“Omega-3s and fish oils nurture the hair by inspiring blood circulation in the scalp. They also reduce inflammation, which can be linked to hair loss,” notes Umar. Consult your doctor to ensure the supplement is right for you and to help you find the best option.
Consume more antioxidants.
Oxidative stress occurs when the quantity of harmful free radicals in the body exceeds the amount of beneficial antioxidants. Oxidative stress can not only lead to health conditions such as diabetes, heart bug, and cancer, but it is also believed to affect scalp health and cause hair loss.
Try to consume a diversity of fruits and vegetables to obtain the different types of antioxidants found in nature. Each offers distinct benefits that extend outside your hair.
Try Probiotics
“Taking a probiotic bacterium can help improve gut health and stability the gut microbiome,” states St. Surin-Lord. And since our gut health is related to our skin health—and our scalp is skin—taking a probiotic can improve the skin microbiome and promote a healthy scalp, she adds.
She recommends a probiotic containing at least two bacterial strains, such as *Lactobacillus* and *Bifidobacterium*. In particular, *Lactobacillus reuteri* has been shown to help increase hair thickness in mice.
Use a Scalp Exfoliator
Just like the exfoliator you use on your face, a scalp exfoliator helps exfoliate the skin on your scalp. These products contain physical or biological exfoliants that help eliminate excess skin cells, oil, and dandruff; furthermore, they can dilate blood vessels beneath the skin, which may promote hair growth. (It can also be relaxing and help you reduce stress.)
You can prepare your own homemade scalp exfoliator using common ingredients, or purchase exfoliators in physical stores or online.
Symptoms of an Unhealthy Scalp
Our scalp often signals when something isn’t right. Common symptoms of an unhealthy scalp include:
- itching
- pain
- bumps on the scalp
- excessive dandruff
- hair loss
If you notice any of the above symptoms and the issue is bothersome, consult a dermatologist. “It is possible that a hair product you are using, or a medication you are taking, is the cause of the problem,” states Umar. “A dermatologist can determine what steps to take.”
If hair loss persists in large amounts, there could be an fundamental health issue that your dermatologist or healthcare breadwinner can help treat, he adds.
In Summary
A healthy scalp supports healthy hair, so it is important to pay attention to your scalp’s health. If you notice itching, redness, flaking, irritation, pain, or excessive hair shedding—and these symptoms are bothersome to you—consult a dermatologist. This professional can help you determine whether there is an underlying health issue or if you should modify your hair care routine.
You can also promote scalp health through your daily habits. This includes using gentle products and treating your hair with care. Whenever possible, avoid washing your hair every day. When you do wash it, gently kneading your scalp rather than rubbing it. A diet irritating in fruits and vegetables also helps maintain a healthy scalp; likewise, taking fish oil and probiotic supplements can be beneficial. In addition to mindful washing practices, consider incorporating scalp massages into your routine to stimulate blood circulation and enhance follicle health. Regularly exfoliating the scalp can also remove dead skin cells and product buildup, fostering a more conducive environment for hair growth. Moreover, maintaining hydration and managing stress levels are crucial factors that significantly impact scalp wellness and, consequently, hair vitality. Lastly, protecting your hair from environmental stressors, such as excessive sun exposure and harsh weather conditions, will further contribute to a healthier scalp and improved hair quality.