We think about our skin all the time, but how often do you actually consider your scalp? If you’re like most of us, it probably doesn’t get much attention until something feels off. But here’s the scoop: a happy scalp is the foundation of healthy hair. Just like your skin needs care and attention, so does your scalp. Let’s dive into why scalp care is essential and how you can keep your scalp in tip-top shape.

Why is scalp care important?

Your scalp is more than just a base for your hair; it’s a living, breathing part of your skin. A healthy scalp promotes hair growth, prevents hair loss, and keeps your strands looking shiny and strong. On the flip side, a neglected scalp can lead to itchiness, flakiness, and even unwanted hair issues. So making scalp care an integral part of your hair care routine can help your mane reach its full potential.

Signs of Happy (or Unhappy) Scalp

So, how do you know if your scalp is happy? A happy scalp feels clean, balanced, and free of irritation. You won’t see flakes or feel any tightness or itching. 

If your scalp is unhappy, it might feel itchy, dry, or oily—or you might notice flakes or redness. You may also feel some lingering product buildup that just doesn’t seem to go away. Sound familiar? Don’t worry; our salon professionals have a few simple tips that can help turn things around. 

Scalp Care Tips

1. Understand your hair type.

Your hair type is a big deal when it comes to scalp care. Is your hair curly, wavy, straight, fine,  or thick? Or maybe your natural texture is somewhere in between. Whatever the case may be, different hair types need different care routines. For example, curly hair often needs more moisture, while fine hair can be more prone to oiliness. Knowing your hair type will help you choose the right products and routine for a flawless finish.

2. Find a wash routine that works for you.

Knowing your hair type can help inform how often you need to wash your hair. If you have curly hair that’s prone to dryness, you may only need to wash your hair once a week or incorporate a cowash into your routine. If you have hair that’s more prone to oiliness, you may need to wash your hair every day with a gentle shampoo. Getting to know your hair is key to finding the right wash frequency for you. 

Why is this important? Washing too frequently can strip your scalp of natural oils, while not washing enough can lead to buildup—both of which can affect the health of your scalp. Experiment to find a routine that keeps your scalp feeling clean and comfortable.

Reduce buildup with a clarifying shampoo.

If you use styling products, live in a city with hard water, or just feel like your hair looks a bit dull, a clarifying shampoo can be your best friend. A good clarifying shampoo is designed to remove stubborn buildup, slough away dead skin cells, and leave your scalp with a squeaky clean feel without stripping the hair. You only need to use it as needed (usually about once a month) to give your scalp a nice reset.

4. Give yourself a scalp massage.

A gentle scalp massage not only feels amazing but can also help boost scalp health. Indulging in a massage while shampooing can help remove product buildup and dead skin cells while helping increase blood circulation, promoting healthy hair growth. 

To give yourself a massage, move your fingertips or a scalp massager in small circular motions for a few minutes every day to give your scalp the TLC it needs. Bonus: it’s super relaxing!

5. Protect your scalp from the sun.

Just like your skin, your scalp can get sunburned too. This can cause discomfort, itching, and flaking until the skin heals. If you’re spending time outside, don’t forget to wear a hat or apply a scalp-friendly sunscreen. Even a stylish scarf will help shield both your hair and scalp from potentially harmful UV rays.

Stay hydrated.

Hydration isn’t just about your skin; it’s crucial for your scalp too. Drinking enough water helps keep your scalp hydrated, which can prevent dryness and flakiness. So, keep that water bottle handy!

Taking care of your scalp doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small changes to your routine can make a big difference in how your scalp feels—and how your hair looks. Remember, a healthy scalp is a foundation for gorgeous hair, so show it some love! And if you ever need a little extra help, eSalon is here with personalized hair care and color tailored just for you.