Clearly, times have changed quite a bit.
Skin care is the new normal, and it’s great to see younger generations prioritizing hygiene and self-care.
One area that’s recently entered the spotlight in this realm: the scalp.
It is true that a healthy scalp encourages healthy hair, but that’s not all.
The scalp is its own beast to tackle, and it requires much different care than the hair.
The 101 on scalp care.
Even the most diligent skin and hair care devotees can have habits that may be working against them.
When was the last time youreallylooked at your scalp?
Reslan recommends sectioning the hair and looking closely at the scalp in the mirror.
Is there any redness or irritation?
Are there any flakes?
Or, it could be related to the environment or products you’re using," she says.
Exfoliate weekly.
Because scalp care is skin care, you should be exfoliating weekly.
Instead, you’ll want to opt for gentler detox products.
Replenish hydration.
Hair and scalp oils are different from scalp serums.
The latter is meant to stay in your hair without feeling greasy or leaving residue.
When you apply a scalp serum, do so to a clean scalp.
Be sure to separate your hair with a comb and apply the serum to your entire scalp.
After you apply, massage the serum into the scalp to ensure it absorbs.
Pay special attention to any problem areas.
Give your scalp a break.
It’s not a crime to sport your favorite slicked-back style every now and then.
Pulling on your scalp every day, however, isn’t the best idea.
Nevertheless, try not to make this an everyday occurrence.
Everyone’s scalp is different and thus, can tolerate different styles.
Use your hands.
There is so much power in your built-in tools.
Giving yourself ascalp massagein the shower or with products before or after your rinse can work wonders.
“Doing self-massage on the scalp promotes blood flow, which is relevant to natural oxygen in the body.
This promotes healthier hair growth,” Starkman explains.
If you prefer ascalp massage toolinstead, by all means, use what you like.
Protect the scalp.
If you’re spending a long day in the sun, you should be protecting your scalp.
Know when to see a professional.
As is with skin care, sometimes at-home treatment just isn’t enough.
3 extra scalp-care steps for those looking to level up.
For those who want to take their routine beyond the basics:
Weekly scalp oiling.
This is a classic Ayurvedic tradition that can work wonders for a dry scalp.
Simply separate your hair into sections, run some oil down the part, massage, and repeat.
This can be a mindful practice that doubles as a moment of peace and a dedicated act of self-care.
Use silk or satin hair ties.
Like we said earlier, pulling the hair into extra-tight hairstyles can severely damage the scalp.
Instead, opt for silk hair ties and scrunchies.
This will also help prevent breakage on the strand where the tie is fastened.
This step serves as a best practice for your hair and for your scalp.
Don’t forget about in-salon treatments.
There are tons of scalp-focused treatments offered at hair salons.
These range from hair growth to hydration to exfoliation-focused processes.
Your hairstylist or trichologist will help you determine what your scalp needs at the time.
The 6 products to try.
The best scalp care is holistic in natureproducts included.
Here, some of our favorites.
Moringa extract works to stimulate microcirculation for healthy hair growth.
This one is ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy scalp.
If your scalp is already facing trouble, the salicylic acid-basedScalp Renewmay be a better choice.
Apple extract works to restore hydration while peppermint oil stimulates blood flow.
Theahh-inducing aroma comes from the tea tree oil that’s actively soothing inflammation and irritation.
Enter, a recovery treatment for your scalp.
This apple cider vinegar serum can be used daily to encourage a balanced microbiome and hydrated scalp.
Be sure to divide your hair into sections and prioritize any problem areas.
Be sure to leave the oil in for a few hours after applying.
Best dry shampoo::RahuaVoluminous Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is a universal savior.
Made with tapioca starch, this product naturally absorbs oil without sticking to the hair follicle like glue.
Be sure to focus the product on the strands rather than the scalp itself.
The beauty breakdown.
As we said, there’s much more to scalp care than meets the eye.
