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Ever wondered why your hair feels oily after you just washed it? Or seems dry and dull even after using your favorite deep conditioner? It might be time to switch your focus to your scalp.
In fact, that’s the very definition of the skinification of hair care — the self-care trend that says your scalp needs a tailored care routine just as much as the delicate skin on your face. A regimen that prioritizes, pampers, and preserves hair’s basic foundation. Because after all, healthy hair starts at the root.
Let’s get started.
Getting to know your scalp
The scalp is often forgotten when it comes to hair health, but it’s where it all begins. Think of your favorite houseplant: when you nourish the soil, the plant grows stronger. And the same can be said for your hair.
The scalp is often forgotten when it comes to hair health, but it’s where it all begins.
Here’s how it works: The scalp is full of oil glands, blood vessels, and hair follicles that work together to create the perfect environment for hair growth. These follicles, just under the skin, produce each strand of hair.
When everything is balanced, the scalp nourishes these hair follicles with the nutrients, oxygen, and hydration they need to produce healthy hair. However, when things get knocked off balance, you might notice that your scalp and hair don’t look or feel their best.
What happens when your scalp is thrown off balance?
There are a few potential situations here. First, if the scalp’s oil glands produce too much sebum, the follicles can become clogged, causing hair loss and thinning. This oil buildup can also cause hair to look dull, greasy, and flat.
On the other hand, if the scalp is dry, it can cause irritation, itching, and peeling — weakening the skin barrier that protects hair follicles. The follicles are left vulnerable without their barrier at full strength, preventing healthy hair growth.
The scalp is a miniature ecosystem that needs balance.
But it doesn’t always boil down to excess oil or dryness. The scalp is also influenced by environmental stressors just like the skin on your face. As in? Think harsh products, exposome factors such as pollution, or even hormonal changes. Each can cause discomfort like inflammation, itching, or dandruff.
All in all, scalp care is essential to your hair care routine. And it starts with one essential step: knowing what type of scalp you have.
What’s your scalp type?
Just as your skin can be dry, combination, oily, normal, or sensitive, the scalp also has its own attributes:
1. Oily scalp
If you notice that after washing your hair, it gets dirty quickly, feels greasy, or loses its volume by the end of the day, you probably have an oily scalp.
More signs? You tend to feel the need to wash it more frequently and frizz is one issue you don’t typically worry about.
2. Dry scalp
If you notice that your scalp feels tight and itchy, or you see small non-oily flakes, you may have a dry scalp. Often confused with dandruff, this scalp type can experience occasional flaking simply due to a lack of natural moisture.
3. Sensitive scalp
If you notice redness, itching, or a burning sensation after using certain types of shampoo or dye, you might have a sensitive scalp.
This type of scalp reacts quickly to harsh ingredients or external factors such as pollution or changes in the weather.
4. Normal scalp
If you notice that your scalp rarely feels oily, dry, or irritated you likely have a normal scalp. It’s the most balanced type, feeling clean and healthy between washes, without producing too much oil or experiencing dryness or sensitivity.
Can your scalp type change over time?
Definitely! Your scalp type isn’t an exact science and can change over time. Especially if you’re trying new products, going through a stressful time, or changing up your diet — all of this influences your hair and scalp. Plus, long-term use of harsh products or external factors such as temperature changes can alter its natural balance. Maybe your hair feels drier after a seaside vacation? That’s completely normal.
Age also plays its part. During puberty or pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations can increase sebum production, causing a normal scalp to become oily. On the other hand, as we get older, the skin produces less oil, which can cause the scalp to become drier. It’s all part of life.
Here are two tips to help you navigate any changes:
Determine your current scalp type. Once you’re on the right track, look for targeted products.
Check in every few months and adapt your hair and scalp care routine to new needs.
Your scalp care routine: step by step
Using the right hair care products is a great place to start. But, your scalp needs a little extra pampering to help it stay balanced and optimize growth (if that’s something you’d like). Here’s a complete routine to transform your hair starting at the roots:
1. Nourish your hair from the inside out
Your hair and scalp both need plenty of vitamins and minerals to feel their best. Have you noticed more hair loss lately? Or hoping to make your hair look healthier and fuller overall? While a varied diet can do wonders here, a targeted supplement can offer an extra boost. Add one to your daily routine as outlined on the product label.
2. Shampoo with care
In the shower, use lukewarm water and gently massage your scalp while applying shampoo. This can help to both properly cleanse and energize the skin around the hair follicles. Use gentle pressure to help avoid irritation.
Remember: If washing your hair every day works for you, go for it! There’s no fixed number for recommended weekly washes.
3. Apply conditioner from mid-length to ends
Make sure to read your conditioner’s label to see if it’s meant for the scalp as well — as many are only formulated for your hair. Why is this so important? Thicker products can easily overwhelm the skin, especially if you tend toward an oily scalp.
4. Prioritize a daily hair massage
This can be as simple as getting a little more intentional when brushing your hair. Try to gently brush or massage your scalp for at least two minutes each day. It’s one simple ritual that can help support natural circulation and oxygenate the follicles.
5. Add a hair density lotion to your routine
A leave-in scalp lotion provides the area with targeted ingredients while adding fullness. Reach for a formula with potent antioxidants, such as Ginkgo biloba, to help protect your skin and hair against oxidative stress. Another ingredient to look for? D-Biotin. This vitamin can work to fortify your roots and strengthen your strands.
Healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp. The best way to be proactive? Commit to a daily routine focused on strength and vitality from the inside out. And remember, only you get to decide what great hair looks and feels like.
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Editorial TeamOur namesake embodies the spirit of embracing life and all its wonder. As wellness journalists, we explore topics that invigorate the senses and keep curiosity alive. We believe that glowing skin is the result of a healthy body and mind. Weaving beauty with science, we aim to inspire you to live young at every age.
