Everything on Scalp Health (Tips for a Healthy Scalp)

Do you know why so many people are suffering from bad hair? It’s because they ignore and forget about the scalp.

The scalp is the skin on your head. Your scalp has little pores and inside these pores are the precious hair follicles that house your hair roots.

Unfortunately, your scalp’s health can be compromised by infections, poor lifestyle, using the wrong hair care products, and at times, genetic alterations.

Ever wonder how healthy your scalp is or how to keep it healthy? Let’s do some exploration!

Signs of an Unhealthy Scalp

There are so many people unknowingly walking about with unhealthy scalps. Some of the signs are usually hidden and detected late when the victim isalready suffering from serious hair complications like hair loss and scalp infections.

These are the common signs to look out for:

1. Greasy Oily Scalp

Some people are indeed born with naturally oily hair, however, many people find themselves in this situation because of unhealthy hair routines.

You see, your scalp naturally produces sebaceous oil that moisturizes your scalp for smooth and shiny hair. The problem comes about when your sebaceous glands go crazy and start producing excess oil that clogs your pores and make your scalp swampy.

An oily scalp is usually caused by using intense shampoos and conditioners that strip your scalp of its natural oils. As a result, your body counters by producing a lot of oil to compensate for the lost amount.

Tip:The first step is to know your hair type (normal, dry, or oily). This will help you identify the best hair care products thatwill work for you. Also, don’t over wash your hair.

Home remedies like aloe vera can do wonders in managing naturally oily hair.

2. Embarrassing Dandruff

Something is definitely wrong with your scalp if it starts producing little white flakes.

Dandruff is a condition that can be caused, among other things, by a yeast infection. Oily scalps create the perfect conditions for this particular yeast to grow and spread.

Tip:The best approach is to prevent your scalp from getting oily. Pay attention to your hair care products and see if they’re too intense or if they upset your hair’s pH level.

Use special anti-fungal shampoos to stop the yeast infection. Preferably, shampoos with ingredients such as ketoconazole or selenium sulfide.

Tea tree oil is another home remedy you can use to stop dandruff. Simply add a few drops to your usual shampoo bottle and you’re good to go.

3. Itchy Scalp

We know just how annoying an itchy scalp can be, especially when you’re out there in public or on a date. We are over the head pats too!

Sometimes an itchy scalp is accompanied by white flakes. Please note that dandruff and itchy scalp are two different conditions with similar symptoms. An itchy scalp is usually caused by a moisture imbalance that causes the scalp to dry up and become easily irritated.

Tip:The best approach is to seek the counsel of a medical expert to help determine if you’re suffering from an infection or skin inflammation. Special moisturizing shampoos will be of help to those with naturally dry hair.

3 Common Questions on Scalp Health

Which hair care ingredients should you avoid for a healthy scalp and hair?

You need to be very careful when shopping for the perfect hair care products. It's also important to appreciate the fact that our hair and scalps are different. What works for another person might harm you. Consult a medical specialist to know the little details about your hair type.

These are the general but commonly used ingredients you should avoid:

• Alcohol and all-alcohol related compounds like ethanol and isopropyl alcohol:These compounds will steal your scalp’s moisture and cause irritation.
• All sulfates: These are detergents that will strip everything off your hair.
• Parabens:They're used to preserve hair care products at the user's expense. Parabens are known to cause cancer.

How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?

This confuses most people.

Excessive washing will lead to dry and brittle hair. Don’t wash, and you’llhave to live with oily hair. Again, the most important thing is to know your hair type. Thick and dry hair will be okay with one wash per week. On the other hand, thin or oily hair may need to be washed once two times per week.

What About Scalp Exfoliation and Moisturization?

Many people are familiar with shampooing but know very little about scalp exfoliation (scalp detox).

Just like the skin on your face, your scalp needs to be exfoliated to get rid of dead skin cells that can clog your pores and create an oily, swampy environment. Scalp exfoliation will also help increase blood circulation in your scalp. We advise you to exfoliate weekly.

Don’t go for specialized hair and scalp moisturizers without consulting a medical specialist. Your scalp moisturizes itself and your regular shampoo and conditioner should be enough to cater to all your moisturizing needs.

Our products are great companions on your journey to a healthier scalp. They are sulfate and paraben-free. They include some of the natural ingredients mentioned here including coconut, aloe vera and tea tree.  Finally, they are moisturizing, which is key to maintaining a healthy scalp.    

We hope you see it now. Your scalp is just as important as your hair (if not more). Keep your scalp healthy by eating a balanced diet, using the right hair care products, and exfoliating weekly.  Good luck on your journey!