Scalp health is my latest obsession

Yes.

I get obsessed with things.

Like, really obsessed.

Hence, once I dove into the curly world, I decided that was all I would do. No more straight hair. Just waves and curls.

Obsessed.

I then read every article, search every blog, and down I go into the Youtube hole.

I have to know everything about the newest shiny fascination. 

Lately, it's been all about scalp health.

I feel like it's been totally neglected, especially in the curly world.

From the beginning, I told clients that friction and water are what cleansed the scalp. Sayaka Lee, co-owner of Blow me Away LA, says that "80 percent of build-up from natural oils and dust comes out with just water". 

This means that scrubbing the scalp gently but firmly is really important.

For those that are into co-washing (no, I'm not a fan) or conditioning cleansers, you have to be extra careful in making sure you are ridding the scalp of build-up.

Build-up can definitely lead to hair loss. Please don't take my word for it. Trichologist at Philip Kingsley has spent their entire careers researching all things related to scalp health, including thinning and hair loss. 

This explains why as the popularity of not washing your hair grew, so did hair loss stories.

The more I heard this behind the chair, the more I started to play investigator. I discovered that this was much more likely related to build-up than an ingredient in shampoo or conditioner. 

"Blocked follicles can stop producing growing hair altogether," says Guy Parsons of My Hair Doctor.

I just ordered a little microscope to start really needing out on my scalp's shape. I can't wait to play with it on clients too. 

The health of your hair and scalp are intertwined. 

Here are some tips you can try:

1. Don't be afraid to wash often. 

Gasp...I know...but I've always said this. 

You can wash your hair whenever it feels greasy, itchy, or gross. 

If you work out a lot or play many sports, you probably are going to want to shampoo more often.

The old school thinking of not washing it because it will dry it out was fine when shampoo's and conditioners were made with many ingredients that would do just that. But it's 2020...welcome.

2. Scalp exfoliation. There are lots of products now that are specific to this. You can also make your own at home. There seems to be conflicting information on whether "oiling" the scalp is good or bad. So treat that like gluten. It may work for some but be damaging to others.

3. Don't wear your hair up all the time. If you want to wear updos, do it loosely or stick with that 1980's scrunchie. We don't need all the extra tension on the scalp.

4. Steaming. It can help to loosen up dead cells and unclog pores. It can increase collagen production and increase blood flow to the scalp.

5. Red light therapy. All the rage in the skincare world, and your scalp is your skin, so it provides the same benefits. There are actually claims that this can help stop hair loss and is effective with regrowth. Restore.

6. Dry brushing. Again, just like its benefits for your body, it helps detox and gets the blood circulating. You can use a small toothbrush or a teaser-type brush to slough off dead cells before thoroughly washing. (If you have psoriasis, it is important to see your dermatologist or trichologist before attempting to remove patches)

7. Scalp massage. It stimulates collagen production and is just like the best feeling ever. 

8. Scalp mask. Yes, they have these. 

As I research this, I will definitely be adding some services to my menu this year. 

Maybe I'll become known as the scalp whisperer? Lol.

P.S. Be sure to watch the video above with Anabel Kingsley.

I want to hear from you...

Have you tried any scalp treatments that have worked for you?