The scalp is your body part that does not receive the amount of care and attention it deserves. If you experience irritation or redness in your scalp, and if your scalp shows signs of flakes, burning sensation, and dryness, chances are your scalp is unhealthy, and you need to take care of it immediately. Just like our face has its skincare routine, why should our scalp be left out? Your hair will only look healthier if you take care of them, and the first step is to look after your hair’s roots. Fortunately, we do have a scalp routine for you which will help you take care of your scalp.
Signs of Unhealthy Scalp
Before diving into the steps and procedure through which you can achieve a healthy scalp, we are here to tell you first what exactly an unhealthy scalp looks like so that you get a clear idea of what products you will need according to your scalp condition. Once you know the condition of an unhealthy scalp, it will be easier for you to follow the tips for achieving a healthy scalp.
Oily Scalp
Oil is a natural remedy for dry and damaged hair; our scalp itself produces oil so that it does not lose its moisture and dries out instantly. However, an excess of oil on your scalp is a red flag. If your scalp has too much oil, it will result in the growth of bacteria and fungi; it will also cause dandruff in your hair.
Itchy Scalp
Follicles inflammation and bacterial infection can cause an itchy scalp with redness and a sore feeling. If your scalp feels extra itchy and dry, it means that you need to take care of it.
Hair Loss
Hair loss is a common phenomenon experienced by every other individual; however, an abnormal amount of hair loss is a warning sign that your scalp needs your attention.
Dandruff
If you have flakey hair with dandruff, it means that you have an unhealthy scalp. Dandruff results from excessive oil on your scalp, leaving the skin cells to build up and shed.
Painful Red Scalp
The primary causes of this are irritation, allergies, or, most likely, sun damage. It can also occur from using bleach and other harsh hair products, which consist of propylene glycol.
How to Get a Healthy Scalp
Since it is now evident how an unhealthy scalp looks like, we can move forward towards the next step, i.e., how to get a healthy scalp and maintain it. Your hair care routine needs a few simple changes, and then you’ll be good to go.
Gentle Hair Products
Chemicals ruin your hair, especially the harsh chemicals such as sulfate and alcohol present in most hair products. The skin on your scalp is extremely sensitive, so you need to make sure the products, like this cruelty free shampoo & conditioner, that you are using do not contain damaging chemicals.
Massage Gently
Do not use your nails while you are massaging your scalp; it damages it. Use the tip of your fingers instead and massage gently in a circular motion.
Refrain from Regular Washing
You do not need to wash your hair with shampoo daily as it will damage your scalp. The shampoo, first of all, contains chemicals, and excess of those will have an adverse impact on your skin; secondly, using too much shampoo takes away the scalp’s natural oils. Your scalp will therefore produce more oil which will, in turn, give you an oily scalp as well as dandruff.
Exfoliate
You exfoliate the rest of the skin on your body, so why leave the scalp? Your scalp also needs exfoliation for better circulation and the removal of dead cells. Use an exfoliating mask for this purpose and use it twice or thrice a week.
Brush Your Hair Regularly
Do not leave your hair frizzy and go by days without brushing them. You should brush your hair regularly for healthy-looking hair. A natural bristle brush is helpful for circulation in the scalp.
Supplements
Haircare supplements are the best way of protecting your hair and keeping them healthy. It is recommended to use omega-3 capsules and capsules with antioxidants which will help decrease scalp inflammation and stimulate circulation. Fish oil capsules are also recommended as they prevent hair loss.
Use Conditioner
Many people make the mistake of using the conditioner on their scalp; this damages your scalp immensely and causes hair fall. The conditioner is meant to be applied onto the ends of your hair. However, if you happen to have an extremely dry scalp, you can apply conditioner on it but only the one that is noncomedogenic.
UV Rays
The Sun’s UV rays can seriously damage your scalp. Hence, whenever you’re outside, try covering your hair with a hat or use sunscreen meant for your scalp.
Check Your Diet
You should consume proteins for a healthy scalp; if you have an extremely dry scalp, increase the intake of omega-3 and fish oil for better and healthy hair. Add vitamins, zinc, folic acid, and nutrients to your diet as well. Sugar can result in dandruff, so it is recommended to cut down on sugar.
Oils
Oils are food for our hair, it is an essential product for a healthy scalp and hair growth. It is recommended to use coconut oil or lavender oil before going to bed and wash your hair in the morning.
Avoid Hair Colors
If your skin feels itchy when you apply color to it, it means that your scalp is too dry and it is being affected by the chemicals in your hair dye. To avoid this, use a gentle shampoo and wash your hair less often.
Thus it would be best to make sure what products you are using on your hair and have a proper hair care routine. A healthy scalp means healthy hair; therefore, it is advised that you should not change your shampoo frequently and wash your hair daily to avoid damage. In addition, what you eat directly affects your skin and scalp, so you should eat healthy food rich in nutrients to prevent hair damage. Finally, if your scalp still persists in showing redness, dandruff and itchiness, see a dermatologist.
