Dry flaky scalps could be due to many different things. Today I am going to talk about dry flaky scalp mainly due to climatic conditions. Depending on the kind of climate present in the place you are living, your skin can get affected and so does your scalp.
Make sure you shampoo the proper way. Especially in the winter, when the air is dry, use a shampoo and conditioner for dry scalps. It will also help to limit how often you shampoo. Too often can strip the scalp of it’s natural oils that provide moisture. Use only about a dime size, maybe a nickle size if your have long hair, each time. Using too much makes it harder to rinse all the shampoo out, if any shampoo is left on the scalp it will dry and flake off.
Turn down the heat in the shower. Too much heat can irritate and dry out your scalp, making it even flakier. Taking long hot showers can just add to the problem. Make sure you don’t over use your blow-dryers, curling irons and flat irons, this also strips the moisture from you hair and scalp. Shower with warm water, not hot, and let your hair air dry.
While you are washing hair with shampoo you should also make sure you aren’t scratching. Always massage your scalp with small circle like movements from the top to the bottom and temple to temple. This will loosen dead skin cells, clear blocked pores and can help release the scalp’s natural oil.
Use an oil treatment. You can use olive oil from the grocery store. Rub the oil into your scalp, wrap your hair in a towel and leave it on for about a half hour. Rinse the oil out with lukewarm water and shampoo like normal.
During the summer you want to make sure you protect your scalp by wearing a hat or some sort of cover. Getting a sunburn will add to the dryness of your scalp.
As for those of you suffering with a greasy scalp, here are some tips for you.
Always use the proper products, one that helps control the oil. It would be best to wash your hair daily or every other day. Make sure products are oil-free and designed to treat oily scalp and oily hair. Keep away from shampoos with silicone or lanoline, stay away from products that are both shampoo and conditioner in one!
Apply shampoo to your only your scalp if your ends are dry, use a conditioner on only the ends. Conditioner on an already oily scalp will just cause more oil to accumulate.
Always read the shampoo instructions and follow the carefully. Be sure to wash, rinse and repeat. The second time you apply your shampoo leave the shampoo on your scalp for about five minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Use and astringent for your scalp, it’s not only for your face! If you can’t find one or would prefer to make one at home, you can find the recipe at http://hairstylinmamabird.weebly.com under the recipes section.
Comb or brush your hair as gently and little as possible. While combing your hair you move the oils from your scalp down the shaft of the hair, making your hair oily.
This last bit might be hard for some people, I know it would be for me, but try to reduce stress in your life. Try meditating, deep breathing or yoga. Another way to help reduce stress levels is to stay physically active as many days of the week as possible.
If you have any questions or topics you would like me to write about, please feel free to email me at [email protected].