Let’s start from the root. Dealing with ‘flakiness’ and ‘itchiness’ is embarrassing enough, but a new report reveals online searches for scalp treatments are up by 300%, proving many of us are tackling the issue head on. “Scalp skin is just as important as facial skin,” says Anabel Kingsley, trichologist at Philip Kingsley, and as part of the body’s largest organ, it’s only right those microscopic follicles receive all the TLC in the world. So why is prioritising our scalp health so important?
Scalp care plays a vital role in our hair’s overall condition, appearance, and health. “Your scalp is a living tissue that supports your hair follicles and the hair that emerges from them. When the scalp is in good condition, strands are given a healthy base from which to grow. However, if your scalp is unhealthy, growth can be hindered,” explains Kingsley.
Research shows that only 50% of people know that’s scalp health is essential for hair growth and 84% had never used a scalp targeting product. Wearing protective styles like braids, wigs and weaves require a robust scalp regime to help regulate natural oils and keep conditions like traction alopecia at bay. “It’s understandable that women may be reluctant to wash freshly installed braids and weaves because they’ve paid money for it and want it to last,” says Aisha Ibrahim, Spell Beauty ambassador. “However, looking after your own hair is paramount, so after week two, you should clarify the hair and scalp to remove build-up.”
Brands like Design Essentials have nozzled tip bottles to target oil placement, and get in-between tracks and small partings. If you suspect your scalp condition to be more severe, then invest in the CurliD Hair Analysis Kit to uncover issues that will be assessed and treated with a trichologist-approved plan.
A final word from Kingsley: “Just as you would use daily targeted products to address an issue with facial skin, you should use products with targeted active ingredients to treat your scalp when it gets unbalanced.”
L’Oréal Professionnel Serié Expert Scalp Advanced Anti Oiliness 2-in-1 Deep Purifier Clay Hair Mask, £29.65 // Soul Cap Hair Towel, £24.99 // Design Essentials Scalp Care Oils Collection, £9.99 each
Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner, £27 each // The Steam Bar The Steaming Cap, £35 // Scandinavian Biolabs Scalp Activation Roller, £35
Cantu Strengthening Biotin-Infused Hair & Scalp Oil, £9 // CURLiD Hair Analysis Kit,£299.99 // Kerasilk Exfoliating Scalp Pre-Wash, £23
Feature image courtesy of Lottie London x Chaun Legend
