A healthy scalp results in healthy hair, and all of us wish to have long lustrous hair but most of us could not have them due to some or the other hair problems. Majority of the hair concerns arises due to unhealthy scalp.
As we know that the scalp is the foundation of hair, we must not overlook our scalp, instead take care of our scalp and maintain its health.
Due to pollution, frequently applying heat, styling gels and chemical treatments the scalp health worsens leading to dry flaky scalp, itching, dandruff and clogged hair follicles. All of them can be overcome by taking a little extra care care and apt some vital measures to improve hair quality.
Let's Explore What all it takes to achieve a healthy scalp.
1. Gentle Cleansing
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Opt for mild, chemical free hair cleansers which can clean your scalp without stripping off its natural oils or making it dry. Don’t directly put the shampoo on your scalp instead dilute it and massage it well with your fingertips.
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Don’t over wash your hair, washing them too frequently can lead to irritation. Washing your hair 2-3 times a week is more than enough and also maintains oil balance in the scalp.
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Rinse off the product thoroughly to avoid any product buildup and blockage of follicles. Must use paraben free dandruff shampoo or other hair care products to prevent this as the buildup can cause irritation.
2. Scalp Exfoliation
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Many of us avoid this step being unaware of its benefits, you must exfoliate your scalp once in 10-12 days. This is a vital step for optimal hair health.
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Don't exfoliate too harshly as it will result in dry flaky scalp. Natural exfoliators like coffee can be used as a gentle scalp scrub.
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Exfoliation loosens the dead cells present as dead skin and promotes new cells. It also boosts blood circulation leading to new hair growth and healthier hair.
3.Oil Massages
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Massaging your scalp with oil by fingertips in circular motions results in increased blood flow in the scalp, new cell growth and it also relaxes your brain.
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Natural oils including coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil, argan oil, sesame oil and castor oil are some of the great options.
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Use lukewarm oil to open up hair follicles and penetrate the oil deeper in the roots, increasing the absorption of oil and its nutrients and availing maximum benefits.
4. Stay Hydrated
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Drink lots of water to keep your scalp hydrated and lock moisture in it and ensure a supple scalp .
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If your scalp is hydrated then more than half of the scalp issues will be solved automatically.
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Staying hydrated not only maintains scalp health but also helps in overall balance of the body. One must drink at least 2-3 litres of water everyday.
5. Conditioning
- Use hair masks designed for the scalp, which treats bacteria and keeps the scalp well nourished.
- Natural conditioners like curd, aloe vera, argan oil and jojoba oil works awesome for nourishment of the scalp.
- DIY hair masks can be made and applied every week or every 10 days for people with oily scalp for better results .
6. Heat Protection
- Avoid using heat too frequently for styling your hair, it weakens your hair follicles leading to hair loss.
- The scalp must be protected by harmful UV rays of sun, cover your head with a scarf or a hat and make a barrier between the harmful rays and your scalp.
- Minimise heat exposure to the scalp to prevent weakening of hair roots and breakage.
7. Balance diet
- Both External and Internal factors are equally important when it comes to improving the scalp health.
- Carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin E and antioxidants are some important nutrients to be included in your diet.
- Providing nutrients from within are even more beneficial for the scalp and body.
CONCLUSION
Maintaining a good scalp health is a vital part of maintaining overall hair health, scalp should be considered equally as hair shaft and ends.
For a healthy scalp it just needs some basic efforts and consistency, and then there comes a healthy scalp waiting for you!
