Men and women alike are constantly searching for ways to maintain a full, healthy head of hair. Gorgeous hair has always been a major status of health and beauty. In the quest for smooth, healthy locks one aspect of hair care is often overlooked, and that is scalp care. Your hair is an extension of your scalp, so if your scalp isn’t healthy your hair won’t be either. Here are five tips to help boost your hair’s health with a healthy scalp. These only take a few minutes and will quickly become part of your regular hair care regimen.
Tip #1- Maintain pH Balance
Did you know that the pH of your hair reflects its health? Healthy hair has a pH range between 4 and 5. If your scalp’s pH helps retain moisture because when it becomes too alkaline your hair follicles will open and allow your hair and scalp to dry out. The proper pH keeps those follicles closed and moisture sealed in. When your hair and scalp are in the proper pH range it also means smoother strands with fewer tangles and it prevents the growth of harmful bacteria or fungi. Ask your Pyara stylist to recommend shampoo and conditioner formulated for your hair type that will maintain your scalp’s pH level.
Tip #2- Keep Your Natural Oils
Your scalp produces sebum, natural oil that moisturizes and protects your delicate scalp and your hair. Without it, your hair and scalp will quickly become dry, flaky, frizzy, and brittle. To keep your scalps oils in place try not to shampoo too often. Most people only need to shampoo once or twice per week. Ask your stylist how often you should shampoo based on your scalp and hair’s unique needs.
Tip #3- Exfoliate
Exfoliation isn’t just for your facial skin. Your scalp can get a buildup of dead skin cells, dirt, and products as well. This can clog the pores on your scalp, and if they stay clogged too long it can cause issues like dandruff, itchiness, and sometimes even hair loss. Using a gentle scalp exfoliant weekly will keep your scalp and hair follicles clean and clear to help prevent these problems from arising.
Tip #4- Massage Your Scalp
If you want strong, shiny hair, start massaging your scalp. It will increase blood flow to your follicles and better circulation means more essential nutrients and oxygen for healthy hair growth. Do this for 2-3 minutes daily. Add a moisturizing scalp oil to your massage once a week for an even greater effect.
Tip #5- Protect Your Delicate Scalp
Your scalp is constantly exposed to the elements and that can wreak havoc on this delicate skin if you’re not careful. The sun’s UV rays, harsh chemicals, and extreme temperatures can all take their toll on your scalp unless you take steps to protect it. If you’re going to be out in the sun apply a scalp SPF or give it some shade with a hat. Avoid very hot water in the shower and when heat styling, use the lowest setting to protect your scalp. On the flip side, cover your head in cold weather to protect yourself from the cold. Limit harsh chemical treatments and make sure you are using high-quality, gentle hair care products.
Skincare is an important part of maintaining your overall health, and this includes your scalp. Your skin is your first line of defense against infection, it protects us from harmful things in the environment, helps regulate your body temperature and moisture level, and in the case of your scalp maintains the health of your hair. So if you want healthy, shiny hair, start with your scalp.
The hair care experts here at PYARA SPA AND SALON have the products, skills, and services to help you maintain the health of your scalp and hair. Give us a call at 781-270-9200 or BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT ONLINE and find out just how beautiful and healthy your hair can be. You’ll find us at 1050 Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge.