Scalp care is all the talk right now. On TikTok the term ‘scalp treatment’ has garnered 249 million views, and it seems the thirst is unquenchable.
People are going to more detailed lengths in order to understand what’s happening up on top. We’re talking everything from hair slugging (slathering oil over your hair to apparently protect the barrier – we’re not quite sold) to Japanese scalp treatments that feature gentle pressure points that ultimately stimulate blood flow.
@wendyskin Replying to @user6532816181004 healthy hair starts with healthy scalp 😌 (📍@yangsiguan in LA) #headspa #headspas #scalpspa ♬ Kawaii Aesthetic – LoES
So, why the buzz? Well, people are raving about the importance of scalp care and how integral it should be in our daily – or weekly – routine (long overlooked, tbh). That plus the overall extension of skincare into haircare. It’s now largely understood that our microbiome, whether in our gut, on our face, or even on our scalp, is integral to our health, and so self-care these days is really stretching from our tips to our toes.
Given that temps are dropping, our skin is getting dryer and we’re reaching for our moisturiser more frequently, now is a good a time to give your scalp some extra lovin’. And sure, getting a healthy scalp is the grooming ritual you probably never thought that you needed – but it could be the key to getting the strong, healthy hair of your wildest dreams. That’s why we spoke to STRAAND trichologist Chelcey Salinger to find out everything we need to know.
What are some key signs that your scalp is disrupted?
We know that balancing the body’s microbiome is key to overall wellbeing, but it’s not just about your gut: the same is true for your skin, including your scalp. Your scalp is made up of many different microorganisms, so when its microbiome is out of balance, it can lead to flaking, itching and irritation.
“Flakiness, scaliness, itch, tenderness, inflammation or any type of discomfort are all signs that our scalp is disrupted,” explains Salinger. “Our scalp should maintain an ‘acid mantle’ (slightly acidic environmental barrier which prevents infections etc). If you are getting little infections on the scalp or flakiness, then this barrier has been disrupted.”
If your scalp is not in good condition the chances of you experiencing problems with hair growth and health will increase significantly. In fact, research has proven that a flaky, itchy scalp can cause and/or worsen hair loss in certain individuals.
What are some ways you can maintain a health scalp?
A healthy scalp has clean, open pores with good blood flow: it’s essential that the hair follicles and scalp are clean and clear, and the microbiome is in harmony with a good balance of good and bacteria.
“The most important thing is shampooing frequently and absolutely washing your hair after a sweaty workout session,” adds Salinger. “Using a shampoo with the right pH helps maintain a happy scalp microbiome and keep the acid mantle in check.”
“I recommend STRAAND’s the crown cleanse shampoo. It is an excellent anti-dandruff shampoo because it is formulated at the correct pH for the scalp, has prebiotics to help balance the scalp microbiome and has lots of antioxidants, which reduce inflammation. I also like the Crown fix scalp serum for use as leave-on treatment for problem areas of the scalp.”
Image: Shutterstock.
Salinger also suggests protecting your scalp from oxidative stress caused by ultraviolet rays (namely- wear a hat when appropriate), and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation by eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fibre…
1. Nom on some nourishment
Up your intake of the vitamins and minerals that support healthy hair. Your hair is made of protein, so to ensure it stays strong and lustrous stack your diet with lean meats, dairy products, eggs, legumes and nuts. Omega-3 fatty acids are super important in providing the natural oils that keep your scalp and hair hydrated so stock your fridge with salmon, sardines, avocado and pumpkin seeds. Vitamin A is essential for creating sebum, which prevents a dry, itchy scalp, so add sweet potato, carrots and kale to your meals.
2. Start at the source
According to a survey, at least 79 per cent of Australians suffer from dandruff but the majority don’t seek proper treatment for their flakes. And winter weather can only exacerbate itchy scalps and that unsightly shoulder snow. Using a nourishing shampoo and conditioner will hydrate deep into the hair follicles to cleanse and protect against dandruff causing microbes.
3. Treat yo’ self
Yo’ hair ends, that is. Take the time to put a deeply hydrating treatment on your tresses at least once a week. Not only is your hair subject to harsher elements in winter, you’re also more likely to be using heating tools like blow dryers as you don’t have the summer sun to let your locks dry naturally. This double whammy will dry out your ends quick smart, so lather on a conditioning mask and leave overnight if possible.
