Scalp skin care - peeling, moisturizing, cleansing

Scalp care is an often overlooked but extremely important aspect of hair care. The condition of the scalp plays a crucial role in the appearance and health of our hair. Balanced care according to the needs of the scalp will result in nourished hair follicles, which promotes healthy growth. Ignoring the scalp may result in dandruff, excessive oiliness and even hair loss. If you want to have beautiful hair scalp care is the key.

The Sensitive and Dry Scalp

The care for dry and sensitive scalp requires constant moisturising, the soothing of irritations and the minimisation of skin contact with aggressive chemicals to avoid harsh cleansers and chemical dyes. Alternatively, natural colouring with plant pigments such as henna or indigo can be used to nourish the hair and scalp. Products for sensitive scalps are characterised by the absence of alcohol, fragrances or irritating preservatives. Desirable ingredients include all moisturizing oils and soothing plant extracts such as Aloe Vera, panthenol or allantoin. Oiling the scalp, i.e. applying a mild oil (e.g. coconut oil) to the scalp about 30 minutes before shampooing, can help to soothe. Other natural products such as aloe or flaxseed gels will add moisture to dry skin.

Many products will aid in the growth and thickness of your hair. For use on a sensitive scalp, it must be free of alcohol and perfumes and contain plant extracts. There may be several reasons for a dry and sensitive scalp for an example season change. It is very important to carefully observe the skin's reaction to specific ingredients and preparations to adjust the care to your individual needs.

Oily skin

An issue that those with oily skin and hair face is an excessive production of sebum, which can make the hair dull, lifeless and greasy. Despite appearances, care should be gentle to regulate this condition. Very intensive, drying scalp sebum may cause the body to produce even more sebum to moisturize the scalp causing the issue to worsen. It is advisable to use both mild and stronger shampoos for washing, by alternating between the two.

 To help to combat oily scalp should also avoid very high temperatures when washing and drying as well as avoid massaging the scalp as this can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce sebum. Any masks, oils or conditioners should only be applied to the ends of the hair to avoid the hair becoming greasy.

 Worth experimenting trying and testing as what may work for one person might not for another.

Dandruff

In the case of dandruff, a therapeutic shampoo from the drugstore contains the basic elements of care. Depending on the severity of the problem it should be used daily or every few days, for example alternating with a milder shampoo. However, the antidandruff shampoo will strip away colour and nutrients from the hair making it a no for those with extensions.

Dandruff is a tricky one that can occur when the scalp has become dry but if left too long between washes for the hair natural oils to help could also cause bacteria and fungi to develop. As with oily scalp, avoid skin contact with conditioners and masks. When the between washes and notice the scalp needs moisturizing why not try natural aloe vera gel or linseed gel. The fight against dandruff can be aided by special oils or rubs, often containing antibacterial essential oils such as sandalwood, lavender or tea tree. In case of very advanced skin problems such as seborrheic or atopic dermatitis, recurring dandruff or skin irritation causing daily discomfort, it is worthwhile to visit a doctor, who will address the problem and recommend therapeutic care.

Best way to wash your hair

Everyone’s hair is different, if the hair is oily then can be washed every day; if not can be washed every few days and usually people have their own routine. However, it is very important what kind of products are used. It is a mistake to use shampoos with strong detergents, such as SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) or SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate). These are intensely cleansing and foaming substances called sulphates, added to cosmetics and household chemicals which for some people may be too aggressive.

To work out what shampoos is best for your hair it’s worth talking with your hairdresser. If you have hair extensions it is important to always use the hair care products recommended, these would have been tried and tested against the hair to ensure the very best results. The reason why extra special care needs to be taken with extensions is that they are no longer receiving any natural oils from the scalp, so must make sure it is absorbed in other ways i.e. deep conditioners to ensure hair looks and feels as good as the day it was fitted.

Scalp Massage and Scrubs

A short daily head massage can improve blood circulation and oxygenate the roots which stimulate hair growth. Massage can be done with a hairbrush, a special massager tool and with fingers in the shower. Again, if you have extensions be careful not to get too carried away and knot up the bonds and fittings.

Brushing

It may seem that brushing has little to do with the condition of the scalp. However, it is important to apply as little pressure on the roots as possible as it can not only contribute to hair loss but also a sore and tender scalp, which of course can cause dandruff. Ensure you are using the best tools, i.e. a bristle brush is perfect for removing tangles with minimal tugging on the roots. While brushing be sure to start from the ends and work your way up and supporting hair at the roots.

Styling

Similar to brushing, when styling, when you have a tender scalp wear the hair as loose as possible. Often, we don't realise how much some styles can affect our scalp for example a ponytail or tight bun when worn regularly can cause additional pressure. The healthiest way to hold the hair and minimize pulling and tugging is the loose braid which is what is recommended to wear when sleeping. High heat will also have a big impact on the condition of the scalp, so it is worth protecting from direct exposure to harsh weather conditions and strong UV rays. It also goes the other way during frosty weather, therefore it is advisable to wear a hat, which will prevent skin irritation and weakening of hair bulbs.

Regular cleansing the scalp

Once we abandon the daily use of shampoos with strong detergents it is still important that hair is cleansed to remove any build-up within the skin pores, which will prevent it from breathing.

 A home remedy for those with a not so sensitive scalp that may enhance the cleansing effect is to simply add a teaspoon of baking soda to a tablespoon of shampoo. Then apply a deep conditioner or mask, to add back those much-needed oils. Try this twice a month, this will thoroughly clean the scalp from dead skin and help regulate the sebaceous glands. Remember scrubbing and massaging the scalp, improves blood circulation, which helps to stimulate hair growth and, in this preventing, excessive hair loss.

At Viola we have tried and tested aftercare range specially tailored for use with our amazing human hair extensions. With nano ring hair extensions, human hair extensions UK  and tape extension remover. With us, you can have beautiful, long and lush hair you only ever dreamt of!