We mull over hair health for hours on end. Breezing through the aisles of a supermarket, carefully vetting the plethora of products adorned on the shelves only to pick the one that we deem fit for our hair type or the pertinent concern — only the best for our hair and nothing less. With this unwavering, laser focus that we direct towards obtaining gorgeous, lush hair— it’s staggering that our conversations are remiss, even with the mere mention of scalp health. The scalp is nothing but the extension of our skin, which bears the follicles sprouting the hair strands. This, by default, makes scalp health indispensable to the overall well-being of our mane. After all, if the scalp's microbiome is compromised, it will inevitably impact the mane's health.
What Are Some Scalp Concerns & How Do They Impact The Health Of Our Hair?
1. An Oily Scalp
While admittedly, there is a dearth of active conversations, and hence cognition w.r.t to a myriad of scalp issues, the most discernible concern is a greasy scalp. The sebaceous glands in the hair follicles produce oil, that helps dictate a healthy microbiome while also serving as a natural barrier against external aggressors. However, some scalps bear overactive sebaceous glands, which churn out more than the requisite amount of oil. Results? An exceedingly greasy scalp. This excess oil, combined with buildup and dead cells, clogs the hair follicles and hampers the turn-over of scalp cells.
Results: The inability of cells to regenerate can hamper the hair's health. Some prevalent issues stemming from a greasy scalp are dandruff, thinning and stunted hair growth.
Solution: To administer a healthy microbiome and promote unhindered hair, it's important to clear the excess oil and eliminate the buildup from the scalp. Following recommendations from Nykaa’s editorial team can help you combat an oily scalp.
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2. Dandruff Laden Scalp
Dandruff can occur in both extremely greasy and abnormally parched scalps. Itchiness and inflammation of the scalp are usually the conspicuous signs indicative of this underlying issue. If you are grappling with unusual dandruff, it is integral to direct efforts to curb it at the earliest.
Dandruff, in many-a cases, may get aggravated and lead to a nasty infection of the scalp. Not only this, but unrestrained scalp flaking can also lead to wistful, out-of-the-blue episodes of hair fall that might bum you out.
Solution: Weave in an anti-dandruff shampoo to help combat any dandruff. We recommend a variety that would help restore the pH of your scalp and aid in preventing antibacterial or antifungal infections.
3. Sensitive Scalp
Overuse of chemical concoctions, pertinent skin concerns and even administering certain medications can lead to a sensitive scalp. The primary signs to look out for while identifying a sensitive scalp are namely, vague discomfort, itchiness and irritation.
Results And Solution: A sensitive scalp can birth sporadic and extreme occurrences of hair loosening, thinning, even shedding that may throw you off your hair care regimen. To combat this concern, it is essential to soothe the scalp while maintaining a neutral microbiome.
