The first thing to know in order to avoid dandruff is that the scalp is delicate. If it gets too greasy, it promotes fungus growth, which can lead to itching and flaking. Ditto if it becomes too dry. It is therefore essential to find the balance in order to have a healthy scalp (for comfort and hair growth). Whether dandruff is a seasonal or permanent problem, read on for the combination of products and best practices to avoid it.
1. Determine your scalp type
First, your approach to dealing with dandruff will be different if you have a naturally dry or oily scalp. Those prone to dryness should favor solutions that are extremely hydrating, and those prone to oil should favor solutions that balance sebum production.
2. Have at least one proactive scalp product
Depending on your main problem (dry or oily predisposition), you should use at least one product that balances your scalp. So if you need to nourish and hydrate a dry scalp, a weekly mask or daily hydrating serum will help prevent it from becoming too dry.
On the contrary, if you are dealing with an overproduction of sebum, an ingredient like tea tree oil or charcoal is recommended. Tea tree oil, in particular, is antimicrobial and prevents the formation and proliferation of fungi, while balancing sebum production. Charcoal, on the other hand, purifies the scalp while absorbing excess sebum.
4. Rinse daily (with more conditioner, less shampoo)
Don’t shampoo every day. It dries out the scalp. Even if you have an oily scalp, daily washing will cause more oil to be produced to compensate. By switching to washing every other day (or ideally, every three days), your scalp will gradually become less oily. Regardless of your oil levels, the simple act of rinsing your hair and scalp every day will help remove any buildup of sweat, dirt, and styling products (as well as oil). Best of all, using a daily conditioner (75% conditioner and 25% shampoo) has the added benefit of nourishing the hair and scalp, while saving you time between treatments. shampoos. Don’t give up washing altogether though, you just don’t need to wash every day, especially for the health of your hair. Unless you’re bald (in which case, use bar soap or face wash), take it easy.
5. Take shorter, cooler showers
Showering is often the number one enemy of the scalp, as most of us prefer to take long, hot showers. Regardless of the temperature, prolonged showers can wash away the oils our skin needs to stay soft and nourished. So imagine the effects of a 10 minute hot shower on your scalp (not to mention the havoc it wreaks on your hair).
6. Get a humidifier and beware of air conditioning
If you use a humidifier year-round – or sleep with the windows open in the summer – you’ll notice significant improvements in your scalp.
7. Be very careful
Be careful with aggressive products, but also avoid certain practices, such as using a hair dryer, swimming in a swimming pool or in salt water, long journeys by plane or car with air conditioning, exposure of the scalp to the sun… For example, if you spend a day in the sun at the pool, apply a mask to your scalp (and hair) the same evening, and be sure to apply sun protection to all exposed areas of the scalp. Dry your hair with a cold wind, or with an ionic/ceramic/tourmaline hair dryer for a faster, less drying finish, and apply your moisturizer to your scalp later in the evening.
8. Seek professional advice
If your efforts are unsuccessful, you may need professional advice. Consult a dermatologist or a trichologist; you may have psoriasis, eczema or another condition that requires more targeted solutions.
RELATED:
Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff: A Comprehensive Review
10 TIPS FOR GETTING THE PERFECT HAIRCUT AND STYLE.
6 TIPS FOR PERFECTLY HEALTHY SCALP: INSIGHTS FROM TRICHOLOGY
10 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SHOWERING FOR HEALTHIER HAIR
