You can spend all your savings on buying or making hair masks; however, it will still look bad if your scalp is not in good condition.
Dryness, excess oil, and dirt severely affect your scalp, leading to dandruff, hair loss, dryness, brittleness, oiliness, and other problems. That’s why it’s vitally important to learn how to care for your scalp’s health.
Basics for a healthy scalp
1. Cleanliness is paramount.
Even if you don’t realize it, properly washing your scalp will prevent the accumulation of dirt and impurities that clog pores and prevent hair follicles from receiving nourishment. This “suffocates” the skin and hair, making it more brittle and weak.
This doesn’t mean you have to wash your hair every day; it’s always good to find a balance. Experts say once every three days is the right amount of time, because it allows the scalp to dry completely and produce its own natural oils.
When you wash your hair, massage it in and use a shampoo suited to your skin type. Avoid products that dry out or irritate your scalp. The best options are those containing oatmeal, avocado, wheat germ, honey, or jojoba oil.
2. Massage your scalp
Massages are undoubtedly very pleasant, but also very effective for keeping your scalp healthy. You should do them with your fingertips; never scratch hard with your nails.
This will promote blood and oxygen circulation, as well as help the skin produce essential nutrients and remove substances that adhere to the hair at the root. The massage should be circular, applying pressure with the fingertips and making small, rotating movements.
If you have your head tilted, the benefits will be better.
3. Use face masks
Regarding hair masks, it’s good to know that they’re excellent for nourishing not only your hair but also your scalp. They should always be part of your beauty routine. Apply one once a week, and if possible, choose natural ones.
For example, try the one made by mixing honey and natural yogurt. It revitalizes and regenerates tissues and is antiseptic. You can apply it liberally to your scalp and gently comb it through your hair.
If you have very dry hair, replace honey with aloe vera pulp; this will also moisturize your skin. Don’t forget to moisturize regularly.
4. Eat a healthy diet
Something that not all women consider when worrying about their hair health is their diet. If you eat well, your scalp (like your skin in general) will look beautiful. When you lack nutrients, it will be immediately noticeable in your body.
Add seaweed, fish, fresh vegetable juices (such as celery, carrot, and alfalfa), almonds, walnuts, oils, plant-based milks, and fruits to your daily diet. Avoid fried foods, sauces, spicy foods, and refined flours.
5. Reduce sun exposure
Excessive sun exposure can also damage your scalp. Just like the skin on your face or arms, it can burn, causing your hair to become dry and brittle. For example, people who are bald or have thinning hair are advised to use sunscreen.
6. Avoid chemical hair products
The beauty products we use can be very harmful, even if you think they give good results. Hair dye, straighteners, and perms are the worst because they contain so many chemicals.
The scalp: dandruff and psoriasis
Dandruff
These are two of the most common scalp problems. Dandruff appears mainly on the forehead and the first few sections of the hair (where it’s most visible) and is caused by an overproduction of dead skin cells. It can be treated with a good shampoo made with natural herbs.
How to avoid it
To combat this, it’s advisable not to brush constantly or vigorously to get rid of the flakes, as this will worsen the problem. Scratching or frantically pulling them out is also not recommended. The best thing you can do is wash your hair gently and avoid using a hairdryer or styling products.
The use of hair masks to nourish the hair is permitted. In addition, you should pay attention to your personal life, as this could be a case of stress or anxiety.
When your hair is dry, use a natural bristle comb. Avoid tight hairstyles, headscarves, and sleeping with wet or tied-up hair. Use a medicated shampoo, consult a dermatologist, and refrain from dyeing or perming your hair.
Psoriasis
Scalp psoriasis typically appears behind the ears, on the nape of the neck, and along the hairline. The scales are larger and more visible than dandruff, and there may even be inflammation of the hair follicles.
How to avoid it
You should visit your doctor regularly; psoriasis requires specialized treatment and strict monitoring by a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
