6 Expert Tips For A Healthier Scalp

Here at Hair.com, we aren’t ashamed to admit that we spend a lot of time and effort keeping our strands in top shape. Whether it’s heading to the salon for a quarterly trim to avoid split ends or frequently touching up our roots, we’re constantly pampering our manes. Sometimes, however, it seems that our scalps still don’t get the love they deserve.

If scalp care wasn’t on your radar before, don’t worry. These expert-backed tips about how to maintain a healthy scalp are all you need to know to maintain a healthy head of hair.

Don’t overdo it on the shampoo.

How often you should shampoo your hair is still highly debated. Cleansing your hair too often can cause your scalp to become itchy and dry, while skipping a shampoo sesh too often can cause unwanted buildup of oil and dandruff.

To help minimize the chances of your scalp becoming too oily or too dry, we recommend shampooing two to three times per week.

Moisturize.

Whether it’s avoiding steaming hot water while rinsing your hair or ditching heat styling, there are tons of ways to prevent losing moisture in your scalp. We also suggest incorporating a weekly deep conditioner or hair oil into your hair care routine. We love the Matrix Biolage R.A.W Scalp Care Rebalance Scalp Oil. Formulated with peppermint, fennel, and lemongrass essential oils, this scalp oil is our ideal pre-shampoo treatment for those with a scalp moisture imbalance.

Use clarifying hair products.

If you’re anything like us, styling products are a staple part of your daily routine. However, products like hairspray and heavy hair creams and lotions can cause serious buildup throughout your hair.

Start by using a clarifying shampoo and conditioner like the Matrix Biolage Cleanreset Normalizing system once every two weeks. A clarifying shampoo helps to purify the buildup on your hair caused by styling products, oils, and residue.

Looking for a clarifying product formulated for color-treated hair? Try the Pureology Vinegar Rinse. The rinse is formulated with apple cider vinegar to help remove product buildup, oils, and impurities while protecting your hair's natural oils.

Protect your scalp from the sun.

Your scalp and hair are constantly being exposed to the sun in your daily life. We all know about the damaging effects UV rays can have on our skin, but our scalps are often ignored when we’re applying our daily SPF products.

If you’re planning on being in the sun for a long period of time, be sure to sit under a beach umbrella or apply products that protect your hair from the sun throughout your scalp and hair. We love the Kérastase Soleil range.

Exfoliate.

Similar to the skin on your body, exfoliating your scalp regularly can help to remove dry patches, flakes, and dead skin cells.

Wondering how often you should exfoliate your scalp? Every scalp has different needs, but a trusted salon professional can help you determine what’s right for you.

If you’re stumped on where to start with scalp exfoliating products, we recommend starting with the Mizani Scalp Care Exfoliating Pre-Shampoo Treatment. Made with a combination of active and soothing ingredients such as eucalyptus oil, aloe vera and avocado oil, the scalp is moisturized while experiencing a healthy exfoliation at the same time.

Don’t ignore dandruff.

Experiencing dandruff is usually a major sign that your scalp is in distress. If you’re dealing with dandruff,fear not! There are tons of ways to deal with the unsightly issue. First, swap out your regular shampoo for one specifically formulated to take on dandruff. From the L'Oréal portfolio of products, we love the Matrix Biolage Scalpsync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. Inspired by the anti-bacterial and calming properties of the mint leaf, Biolage ScalpSync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Pyrithione Zinc helps target dandruff, control the appearance of visible flakes and relieves scalp irritation with continued use.

With our expert tips and product picks, you’re fully equipped to care for your scalp the right way!

Interested in learning more about maintaining a healthy scalp? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.