Healthy Scalp Tips

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Feb 23 2022,

4 Min read

If you’re looking to improve your overall hair health, it’s important to start at the scalp because it serves as the hair’s foundation. How do you know if your scalp is in good shape or if it could benefit from a little TLC? Read our helpful guide to learn some healthy scalp tips and tricks to help support longer, stronger and healthier-looking hair.

Table of Contents

Signs of an unhealthy scalp

One of the most common signs of an unhealthy scalp is itching. Scabs can form due to excessive scratching, and products may cause stinging when they come into contact with the irritated areas. You may also notice that certain areas of the scalp are inflamed or tender to the touch. Always speak with your doctor if you notice any new or concerning scalp issues.

While issues such as dry scalp and flakes may seem minor, the reality is that these conditions can indirectly lead to hair loss and breakage. A dry scalp causes itchiness, along with small-to-medium skin flakes that are sometimes visible in the hair and on styling tools.

In some cases, parts of the hair may weaken or break off entirely, or its overall texture may change. When the scalp has excessive oil buildup, acne or cysts may form, and the hair may feel greasy. The hair follicles can also become infected due to ingrown hairs, especially if you have coarse or curly hair.

What causes an unhealthy scalp?

Dry scalp conditions are sometimes caused by external factors such as dry, hot weather and chemicals including hair bleach and hair color. Excess oil buildup on the scalp is often due to a natural process in which the oil glands in the scalp produce excess sebum. Oil buildup can also be exacerbated by over-washing the hair.

In some cases, internal factors can affect scalp health. Diets that are low in omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins are believed to contribute to dry skin on the body and scalp. Medications, hormonal fluctuations and severe stress may also play a role in overall scalp health.

Hair products for scalp health

Choosing hair products that nourish and hydrate the scalp as opposed to causing dryness is an important step in regaining and maintaining scalp health. Here are some top hair product picks from Prose that help balance, repair and soothe the scalp.

Prose custom pre-shampoo scalp mask

Prose’s Custom Pre-Shampoo Scalp Mask contains soothing botanical ingredients, vitamins, and antioxidants that work together to detox and balance the scalp. Peppermint extract aids in controlling excess sebum, and bamboo charcoal and jujube extract cleanse and detoxify.

Prose custom dry shampoo

Dry shampoo is a beneficial product for scalp health because it cleans the hair effectively without the need for lathering or water. In addition to exacerbating oily scalp conditions, excessive lathering and washing can also lead to over-dryness of the scalp. Prose’s Custom Dry Shampoo contains witch hazel to naturally help control sebum, and aloe vera and menthol to soothe and refresh the scalp and roots.

Why scalp care is important for healthy hair

Prose custom shampoo

Prose Custom Shampoo contains gentle ingredients including prebiotics and licorice extract that sooth and balance the scalp. This shampoo is free of sulfates for mild, yet effective cleansing of the scalp, roots and hair. CBD powder helps calm the scalp, while shikakai extract cleanses and balances.