Top tips for taking care of your scalp

From cleansers and serums to masks and oils, the emphasis on skincare and creating an effective routine has grown exponentially over the last decade. But very few people carry that knowledge beyond the skin on their faces. And the reality is, your scalp is skin too – and it could probably use some TLC. 

Just like the face on your skin, ignoring (or over-treating) your scalp can lead to a slew of issues such as irritation, itchiness, and dryness and therefore consistently removing debris, dirt, and oil on your scalp is vital, as is hydrating it. 

It’s simple: a healthy scalp = healthy hair.

How to care for your scalp and keep it healthy

Massage your scalp daily

Not only is it completely free, but studies show that a daily scalp massage encourages nutrient-rich blood flow, delivering a fresh dose of oxygen to your scalp, thereby boosting hair growth and increasing shine.

How to give yourself a scalp massage: Use your fingertips to apply light-to-medium pressure and work across your scalp in circular motions.

Wash your hair regularly

Washing your hair regularly with a gentle shampoo helps to cleanse the hair and scalp, removing any build-up of oils, dead skin, and hair products. However, it’s important to note that over washing can also cause issues. Washing your hair too often can leave your scalp feeling dry and dehydrated.

Keep your scalp hydrated

Hydration is the cornerstone to healthy skin, and the same goes for your scalp. Keeping your scalp hydrated with serums and conditioners will help hair grow longer, feel softer, and shine brighter. On the flip side, a dehydrated scalp is prone to dandruff, redness, split ends and frizz. It can even trigger oil production as your sebaceous glands produce excess oil to compensate for the lack of moisture. 

Detox

Using dry shampoo, stronghold gels, and salt sprays too often can lead to major product build-up. Combined with the natural build-up of oil and dirt this can result in clogged hair follicles, which can lead to irritation, dandruff and dullness. Detoxing the scalp with a clarifying shampoo or scalp scrub will help rid your hair of suffocating build-up while nourishing the scalp, which in turn helps stimulate hair follicles.

Nourish your scalp

One of the most popular products in the haircare industry is hair oil, and for good reason. Studies show that hair oils penetrate the deepest layers of your scalp to reach your hair follicles, increasing blood circulation and, with regular use, encouraging hair growth. Plus, they give your hair a glossy finish while sealing split ends.

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