6 Top Tips For a Healthy Scalp

A Guide For a Happy, Healthy Scalp and Hair at Stephen Young Salon in West Wimbledon

We all know the importance of a great skincare routine, but what do you know about scalp care routines? Scalp care is often overlooked, even though it's just as crucial for having healthy hair. Your scalp is the foundation for strong, soft, and healthy locks, but many over us don't think about it until we have scalp issues such as dandruff.

Think of your scalp the same way you would sensitive skin, it hosts thousands of hair follicles that require proper care and nourishment to flourish. Neglecting it means your hair won't achieve its maximum potential.

Below are 6 top tips from us to help you maintain a healthy scalp.

1. Create an Effective Cleansing Routine

For top scalp health, we advise washing your hair every three or four days. However, if your scalp tends to become oily quickly or if you lead a highly active lifestyle, daily washing may be necessary. However, if your scalp is prone to dryness, washing once a week should be adequate.

Regardless of your washing frequency, it's important to thoroughly cleanse your scalp to prevent product build-up, which can lead to issues like flakes or irritation. In addition to your regular shampoo, incorporating scalp scrubs and clarifying treatments can help maintain your scalp's health and condition.

2. Use Scalp Friendly Products

To keep your scalp healthy, steer clear of certain ingredients commonly found in hair products. Harsh chemicals like sulphates (which create lather) and phthalates (used for fragrance) can stick to your skin and cause irritation. Instead, opt for high quality hair care products made with authentic, natural ingredients.

At Stephen Young Salon, we're proud to offer the Davines product line for both salon treatments and home care. Davines stands out because they prioritise sourcing many of their ingredients from sustainable farms in Italy. This makes Davines an excellent choice for those who care about the environment and want to maintain healthy hair.

3. Treat Yourself to a Massage

Scalp massage offers several advantages: It helps eliminate dead skin cells and product buildup, allowing your scalp to breathe and enhancing circulation. Improved blood flow stimulates nerves and nourishes hair follicles, encouraging hair growth. Moreover, scalp massage serves as an effective stress reliever.

To give yourself a scalp massage with your fingers, softly press and move in small circular motions across your scalp. You can do this either before shampooing when your hair is dry or while conditioning in the shower. Alternatively, you can utilise a rubber massage tool or brush, employing similar massage techniques.

4. Feed Your Scalp From Within

Ensuring your diet is balanced and rich in essential vitamins and minerals is crucial for the health of both your skin and hair. Incorporating foods like nuts and fatty oils can enhance cell function and impart a healthy shine to your hair. Additionally, vegetables high in beta-carotene, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, contribute to maintaining moisture in your scalp.

It's essential to recognise that good health originates from within, extending to your hair and scalp. Your dietary and lifestyle choices significantly influence the condition of your hair and scalp. Consuming foods abundant in beta-carotene, vitamin C, fatty acids, iron, and B vitamins can promote hair growth, combat harmful bacteria, prevent hair loss, and support cell renewal.

5. Protect Your Scalp From The Sun

Don't forget to shield your scalp from the sun's harmful rays. Whether it's by wearing a hat, wrapping a scarf, or applying sunscreen specifically designed for the scalp, be sure to protect this sensitive area. The skin on your head is fragile and susceptible to sun damage, which can elevate the risk of severe conditions like melanoma. Make sun protection a priority for your scalp's health and overall well-being.

6. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Ensuring you stay properly hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy skin, including your scalp. If you're experiencing dryness, itchiness, or flakiness on your scalp, it could be a sign that you need to increase your water intake.

The amount of water you need each day depends on various factors such as your lifestyle and weight. As a rule of thumb, aim to drink around 2.5 to four litres per day to ensure you stay adequately hydrated.