The Importance of Scalp Health

The scalp is skin, and like the rest of your skin it can be oily, dry, sensitive or irritated. Because every hair grows from a follicle in the scalp, its condition affects how comfortable your head feels and how your hair looks. Yet the scalp is easy to overlook under a head of hair.

What a healthy scalp looks and feels like

A healthy scalp generally has even-toned skin without sore or scaly patches, little or no visible flaking, no persistent itch or tenderness, and oil levels that feel manageable between washes.

Why the scalp matters for hair

It houses the follicles

Each hair is produced by a follicle beneath the surface of the scalp. Inflammation or infection around follicles can interfere with normal hair growth, and some scalp conditions are associated with hair shedding until they are treated.

It produces natural oil

Glands in the scalp release sebum, which coats and protects the hair. Too little leaves hair dry; too much makes it look greasy and can contribute to flaking in people prone to dandruff.

It collects residue

Sweat, dead skin cells, oil and styling products gather on the scalp. Shampoo is designed to remove them, which is why it should be worked into the scalp rather than the lengths.

Common things that upset the scalp

• Infrequent or harsh washing: both extremes cause problems.
• Product build-up: heavy sprays, gels and dry shampoo used day after day.
• Irritants and allergens: hair dye, fragrance and some preservatives.
• Sun exposure: the scalp can burn, especially along the part or where hair is thin.
• Tight styles: constant tension strains the follicles at the hairline.
• Skin conditions: dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema.

Habits for a comfortable scalp

1. Wash to suit your scalp. Daily for some, weekly for others.
2. Massage, do not scratch. Fingertips clean effectively without breaking the skin.
3. Rinse thoroughly. Residue from shampoo and conditioner can itch.
4. Clear build-up occasionally. A clarifying wash such as Scalp Care Shampoo once or twice a week is enough for most people.
5. Protect from the sun. Wear a hat in strong sunlight.
6. Vary your hairstyle. Loosen tight styles and move the position of ponytails or buns.

When to get advice

See a doctor or pharmacist about itching that lasts for weeks, thick scale, redness, pain, sores, sudden hair shedding or bald patches. These signs point to a condition that cosmetic products cannot resolve.

The bottom line

Think of scalp care as skin care for the top of your head: cleanse gently, avoid irritants and take persistent symptoms seriously. You will find mild shampoos and scalp products in our hair care department.

Sources

1. American Academy of Dermatology. Tips for healthy hair.
2. American Academy of Dermatology. Seborrheic dermatitis: Overview.
3. NHS. Dandruff.
4. MedlinePlus. Hair problems.