Curls and Scalp Health
Curl Care: Curls and Scalp Health by Sadie Hessing
This month, I’ve noticed many curls struggling against Colorado’s dry winter climate. With heaters running and the crisp air, our hair, scalp , and skin are all feeling the effects. I've seen an uptick in scalp flaking and buildup, which inspired me to share some tips for maintaining a healthy, hydrated scalp during these chilly months.
I view the scalp as an extension of our facial skin; it requires cleansing, moisturizing, and exfoliation just like the skin on our face. A happy, healthy scalp is vital for fostering an environment conducive to consistent hair growth and vibrant curls.
Understanding Your Flakes
I categorize scalp flakes into two types; dry skin flakes and buildup flakes:
Dry Skin Flakes: These are light in color and resemble small snowflakes or scales of dry skin.
Buildup Flakes: These tend to be cream-colored or yellow and feel oily.
Recognizing the type of flakes you’re dealing with will help you devise an effective treatment plan.
Regardless of flake type, a scalp scrub is essential for removing debris and creating a clean canvas. I personally love the Innersense Scalp Scrub.
Innersense True Enlightenment Scalp Scrub Exfoliation Treatment
If you’re facing dry skin flakes, I recommend using a treatment oil to protect your scalp. The Harmonic Healing Oil from Innersense is a great choice. Apply it at night, especially if you plan to shampoo the next day. It’s crucial to select a shampoo that avoids harsh surfactants, as these can strip moisture from the skin
Innersense Harmonic Treatment Oil
For those with buildup flakes, consider incorporating a deeper cleansing shampoo into your routine. I recommend clarifying once every week or two, depending on how quickly buildup accumulates. The Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo is one of my favorites. A common misconception is that buildup flakes are merely dry skin, leading to under-cleansing, which exacerbates the issue. It’s essential to prevent bacteria and product residue from lingering on the scalp, as this can cause irritation and further complications.
Scalp Stimulation
When shampooing, make sure to give your scalp a thorough scrub. I start at the top of my head, work my way to the middle, and then focus on the nape of my neck, spending about 1-2 minutes scrubbing. If you find it challenging to get a good scrub with your fingers, consider using a silicone scalp massaging brush.
Shampoo at Nature’s Curls
Identifying Product Sensitivities
If you frequently experience itching or redness after using certain products, it may indicate sensitivity to an ingredient. Personally, I react poorly to certain products containing synthetic fragrances. Unfortunately, the FDA doesn’t require companies to disclose the specific components of their fragrance blends. For this reason, I prefer to support brands that are transparent about their ingredients. Innersense, for example, uses essential oils to scent their products. While some individuals may still be sensitive to plant oils, at least you can troubleshoot to identify the source of your sensitivity.
Hang in there! This time of year can be incredibly dry, and many of my clients feel like something is amiss with their hair. I remind myself of this too; our hair and scalp often require special care during the winter.
