Words: Relin Hedly

Healthy hair is a result of a healthy scalp, and the right scalp care can help reduce hair loss and prevent several hair problems. Concern about hair health is increasingly top of mind for the consumer, but few are aware that keeping the scalp in good health is the key.

Hair expert Audrey D’Souza- National Creative Director – Hair, Lakmē Salon reveals, “A healthy scalp typically has a slightly acidic pH level of around 4.5 to 5.5. This actually helps protect the skin barrier and supports a very balanced scalp microbiome. So, basically, a healthy scalp is anywhere between 4.5 and 5.5. To maintain this balance, use a gentle pH shampoo that is suited for the scalp type. Avoid any kind of excessive washing, harsh cleansers, or chemicals that strip off the natural oils. Make sure that the pH level of the shampoo is as close to the scalp  pH as possible.”

How to Enhance Scalp Care

Woman applying serum onto hair on beige background, closeup

Follow the steps given below:

  • Cleanse: With a shampoo that actually suits your scalp and not the hair to remove excessive oil, sweat, and impurities
  • Exfoliate: Use a mild scrub or soothing scrub to eliminate product buildup or dead skin cells
  • Hydrate: Use lightweight, scalp-friendly serums when needed, while avoiding any kind of heavy products that can actually clog the follicles or cuticle
  • Gentle scalp massages: Can improve blood circulation. A galvanic massager or red-light therapy enhances the absorption of any kind of products applied
  • Diet: Should be rich in protein, iron, vitamins, and zinc. Stay hydrated.
  • Seek professional help: To address contraindications or concerns

Additionally

  • Rinse thoroughly to prevent any kind of product buildup
  • Avoid excessive heat styling and protect the scalp from prolonged sun exposure—that is very, very important
  • Effective stress management also contributes to a healthy scalp

Treatments for Scalp Concerns

Some of the common scalp concerns include dandruff, excessive oiliness, dryness, itchiness, sensitivity, folliculitis, and hair thinning associated mostly with poor scalp health issues. The scalp produces sebum to protect the skin from infection. Excessive sebum leads to buildup on the scalp, resulting in greasy hair, unpleasant odour, and infection.

  • Audrey D’Souza recommends the following: Anti-dandruff shampoos containing ingredients such as zinc pyrithione
  • Shampoos with Ketoconazole help manage dandruff
  • Clarifying formulations help control excessive sebum and buildup. Use once a week or once in two weeks to remove any kind of impurities

Professional scalp therapies, including deep cleansing, exfoliation, and targeted scalp treatments, can actually improve the scalp condition and support healthy hair growth. The K-ssence Hair Ritual offered by Lakme Salon is a 15-step Korean spa ritual with bioferment technology that not only works on the scalp but also helps maintain scalp health in the future.

“If you feel that there are persistent symptoms, they should be professionally evaluated, and you should definitely get the correct and accurate diagnosis for the scalp, because a healthy scalp will always maintain a healthy hair regimen.”

Professional Products for Healthy Scalp

Product recommendations should be tailored to each individual’s scalp condition.

  • pH-balanced cleansing shampoo: Forms the foundation of any scalp care routine
  • Clarifying shampoos: These can remove any kind of buildup on an oily scalp
  • Soothing and hydrating formulas are beneficial for dry or sensitive scalps
  • Targeted scalp serums: Are making a comeback, and contain ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, caffeine peptides, or prebiotics that support scalp health. They strengthen the scalp barrier that helps maintain the scalp
  • Dandruff-prone scalp: Professionally recommended anti-dandruff products with clinically proven active ingredients are ideal. Caution: Do not use a dandruff shampoo on a day-to-day basis, because it might  dry out the hair

Proper hygiene and good care can help prevent certain conditions that cause discomfort and irritation.

Audrey D’Souza adds, “At Lakmē salons, we always ensure you get a thorough consultation  to analyse your scalp, analyse any kind of damage to your hair, and give you the accurate retail products that you should pick up.”

Conclusion

Healthy scalp and healthy hair go hand in hand. An accurate scalp assessment helps in choosing the right professional products and treatments to ensure that any scalp concerns are taken care of. Persistent symptoms and concerns need proper consultation from professionals to ensure a healthy scalp and healthy-looking hair.