I Treated My Scalp Like My Face for 30 Days. The Effect on My Hair Was Incredible

I Treated My Scalp Like My Face for 30 Days. The Effect on My Hair Was Incredible

The “Skinification” of My Scalp

I realized the skin on my head deserved the same attention as the skin on my face. For thirty days, I gave my scalp a full skincare routine. I used a salicylic acid serum to exfoliate, a hydrating hyaluronic acid serum on my dry spots, and I massaged it all in nightly. The effect on my hair was the real shock. With a healthier, more balanced scalp, my hair grew in stronger, looked shinier, and I was able to go longer between washes. It proved that healthy hair truly starts with a healthy scalp.

The Surprising Reason Your Hair Is So Oily (Hint: You’re Stripping Your Scalp)

The Vicious Cycle of the Grease Slick

My hair used to get greasy less than twenty-four hours after washing it. I used the harshest, most stripping shampoos I could find, thinking I needed to get rid of the oil. I was wrong. Just like the skin on your face, when you strip your scalp of its natural oils, it panics and produces even more oil to compensate. I switched to a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and made sure to use a lightweight conditioner. Within a few weeks, my scalp’s oil production calmed down, and I could finally go two or three days between washes.

How I Cured My “Incurable” Dandruff with a Skincare Ingredient

The Salicylic Acid Scalp Solution

I had stubborn dandruff for years. I tried every medicated shampoo on the market. Nothing worked long-term. Then, I read that dandruff is often caused by an overgrowth of yeast that feeds on scalp oil and dead skin. I realized I needed to exfoliate my scalp, just like my face. I bought a simple, affordable salicylic acid serum from The Ordinary. A few nights a week, I would apply it all over my scalp and let it sit overnight. The BHA helped to control the oil and exfoliate the flakes. My “incurable” dandruff was gone in a month.

The “Scalp-Care” Routine That Helped My Hair Grow Faster

Cultivating a Healthy Garden for My Hair

I wanted my hair to grow faster and healthier. I learned that the key was to create the optimal growth environment on my scalp. My new routine focused on circulation and nourishment. Every night, I would apply a few drops of a “hair growth” serum with peptides and caffeine. Then, I would use a silicone scalp massager to massage the serum in for five minutes, stimulating blood flow to the follicles. This consistent, nightly ritual of nourishment and massage made a visible difference in the speed and quality of my new hair growth.

A Dermatologist Explains Why Your Shampoo Might Be Giving You “Bacne”

The Runoff That Causes Breakouts

I was getting persistent acne on my back and along my hairline, and I couldn’t figure out why. My dermatologist asked about my hair products. She explained that many heavy, silicone-based conditioners and styling products can rinse off in the shower and clog the pores on your back, causing “bacne.” Her solution was simple: wash and condition your hair first. Then, clip your hair up on top of your head. After that, wash your body and face, ensuring you’ve washed away any pore-clogging hair product residue from your skin.

My Review of “The Ordinary’s” Scalp Serums. Are They Worth It?

The Affordable Actives for Your Follicles

When The Ordinary launched scalp serums, I bought all of them. They offer targeted treatments for your scalp, just like for your face. My favorite is the “Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA” serum. On days when my scalp feels tight and dry, a few drops of this hydrating serum provide instant relief. I also use their “Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density.” While it’s not a magic hair-growth potion, I’ve noticed my hair feels thicker and healthier at the root when I use it consistently. For the affordable price, they are absolutely worth it.

The Best Chemical Exfoliants (AHA/BHA) for a Flaky, Congested Scalp

The Acid Trip for Your Head

Just like the skin on your face, your scalp can get congested with dead skin cells and product buildup, leading to flakiness and clogged follicles. A chemical exfoliant is the best solution. For an oily, flaky scalp, a product with salicylic acid (BHA) is fantastic because it’s oil-soluble and can deep clean the follicle. For a dry, flaky scalp, a gentle AHA like lactic acid is great because it exfoliates while also being hydrating. Using a scalp treatment with one of these acids once or twice a week can completely transform your scalp’s health.

How to Do a “Double Cleanse” on Your Scalp to Remove Product Buildup

The Pre-Shampoo Power Wash

I use a lot of dry shampoo and styling products, which can build up on my scalp. A regular shampoo sometimes isn’t enough. I started doing a “double cleanse” on my hair. The first step is a pre-shampoo treatment. I’ll use a cleansing oil or a micellar water rinse on my dry scalp before I get in the shower. This helps to break down all the product buildup and oil. Then, I’ll go in with my regular shampoo. This two-step process leaves my scalp feeling incredibly clean and refreshed.

The Link Between a Dry Scalp and Lifeless, Brittle Hair

Your Hair is a Plant, and Your Scalp is the Soil

I used to think my dry, brittle hair was a separate issue from my tight, itchy scalp. They are completely connected. Your scalp is the soil from which your hair grows. If the soil is dehydrated and lacks nutrients, the plant will be weak and brittle. A dry, unhealthy scalp can’t produce healthy, strong hair. Once I started focusing on hydrating my scalp—using scalp serums and gentle, moisturizing shampoos—I noticed a dramatic improvement in the quality and strength of my hair. Healthy hair is a direct result of a healthy scalp.

I Used a Scalp Massager Every Day for a Month. Here’s What Happened

The Tingling Path to a Healthier Head

I bought a simple, silicone scalp-massaging brush for about $8. For one month, I committed to using it for five minutes every single night, with or without product. The immediate effect was tension relief; it felt amazing after a long day. But over the month, I noticed other benefits. My scalp felt less itchy and flaky. And because the massage stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles, I felt like my hair looked more voluminous at the root. It’s a cheap, enjoyable tool that has become a non-negotiable part of my nightly routine.

The Best Pre-Shampoo Oils for a Nourished, Balanced Scalp

The Pre-Wash Scalp Treatment

If my scalp is feeling particularly dry or irritated, I’ll do a pre-shampoo oil treatment. About thirty minutes before I plan to wash my hair, I’ll apply a lightweight, nourishing oil directly to my scalp. I love using jojoba oil because its composition is very similar to our skin’s natural sebum. I’ll massage it in and let it sit. The oil helps to soften any dead skin, nourish the scalp, and provide a protective barrier before I go in with my shampoo. It’s a simple, ancient technique that leaves my scalp feeling balanced and comfortable.

How to Give Yourself a Spa-Worthy Scalp Treatment at Home

The Ultimate Head Spa Ritual

I created an at-home scalp treatment that feels just as luxurious as a spa service. I start by dry-brushing my hair to loosen any buildup. Then, I apply a pre-shampoo oil and give myself a deep, five-minute scalp massage. I wrap my hair in a warm towel for twenty minutes to help the oil penetrate. In the shower, I use a clarifying shampoo, followed by a hydrating hair mask that I also apply to my scalp. It’s an indulgent weekly ritual that has transformed the health of my scalp and my hair.

The “Skinification” of Hair: Why Your Scalp Needs a Serum, Too

Treating Your Head Like Your Face

The “skinification” of hair is the trend of treating your scalp with the same care and targeted ingredients as the skin on your face. It makes perfect sense. Your scalp is skin, after all. Just as you might use a hyaluronic acid serum for your dry face, you can use one for your dry scalp. If you have clogged pores on your face, you use a BHA; you can do the same for a congested scalp. This new generation of scalp serums allows you to create a customized, targeted routine that addresses the root of your hair concerns.

My Battle with Seborrheic Dermatitis on My Scalp and How I Won

The Flake-Fighting Formula

My seborrheic dermatitis caused stubborn, greasy, yellow flakes on my scalp. I finally won the battle with a consistent, targeted routine. I rotate between two medicated shampoos. One contains ketoconazole, which is an anti-fungal. The other contains salicylic acid, which helps to exfoliate the plaques. I use one of these shampoos twice a week, making sure to let it sit on my scalp for a full five minutes before rinsing. This combination of anti-fungal and exfoliating action is what keeps my scalp clear and flake-free.

The Best Sunscreens for Your Scalp and Hair Part

The Burn-Proof Parting

I once got a terrible, painful sunburn on the part line of my scalp. I learned my lesson. Now, protecting my scalp from the sun is a priority. There are great powder-based sunscreens that come in a brush applicator. You can just dust them along your part line. Supergoop makes a fantastic one. Another great option is a spray sunscreen designed for the scalp, which is less greasy than a traditional lotion. And, of course, the easiest and most effective option is simply to wear a hat on sunny days.

How a Clarifying Shampoo Transformed My Scalp Health

The Once-a-Week Deep Clean

I use a lot of dry shampoo and leave-in products, and I noticed my hair was looking dull and my scalp felt congested. A regular shampoo wasn’t cutting it. I introduced a clarifying shampoo into my routine once a week. This type of shampoo is designed to give a deep clean, removing all the stubborn product buildup, hard water minerals, and oil that can accumulate on the scalp and hair shaft. This simple, once-a-week reset leaves my scalp feeling incredibly clean and allows my other products to work more effectively.

I Tried a “Scalp Facial.” Was It a Glorified Head Massage?

The Professional Scalp Treatment

I was curious, so I booked a “scalp facial” at a salon for $75. The experience was incredibly relaxing. It involved a detailed scalp analysis with a camera, a deep cleansing with a professional-grade scrub, a nourishing mask, a long and luxurious scalp massage, and even a session under a red light therapy device to stimulate circulation. While it was, in some ways, a glorified head massage, the deep cleaning and targeted treatments left my scalp feeling cleaner and healthier than I could ever achieve at home. It was a worthwhile, educational indulgence.

The Best Ingredients to Look for in a Scalp Treatment (Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree, Ketoconazole)

The Scalp-Saving Ingredient Guide

When I’m looking for a scalp treatment, I look for a few key active ingredients, depending on my concern. For a flaky, oily scalp, salicylic acid is a hero ingredient for exfoliation and oil control. Tea tree oil has natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, making it great for dandruff. And for more stubborn seborrheic dermatitis, an over-the-counter shampoo with ketoconazole is the gold-standard anti-fungal. For general scalp health and growth, I look for ingredients like peptides and caffeine to nourish and stimulate the follicles.

How Your Hard Water Is Affecting Your Scalp and Hair

The Mineral Buildup Mess

I moved to an area with very hard water, and my scalp became itchy and my hair felt constantly dull and coated. Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can build up on the scalp, causing irritation and flakiness. They can also coat the hair shaft, preventing moisture from getting in and leaving it feeling dry and brittle. The two best solutions are to use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove the mineral buildup and to install a simple filter on your showerhead.

The Best Dry Shampoos That Won’t Clog Your Follicles

The Follicle-Friendly Refresh

I love dry shampoo, but many traditional aerosol formulas are full of powders and propellants that can clog the hair follicles on your scalp, leading to itching and even hair loss over time. I switched to a non-aerosol, powder-based dry shampoo. I sprinkle it directly onto my roots and work it in with my fingers. I look for formulas that use simple, natural absorbents like arrowroot powder and kaolin clay. They work just as well to absorb oil without the risk of follicle-clogging buildup.

My Nightly Scalp Care Routine for Promoting a Healthy Growth Environment

The Bedtime Boost for My Hair

My nightly routine isn’t just for my face anymore. I’ve added a simple, two-minute scalp routine. First, I use a boar bristle brush to gently brush my hair from root to tip. This helps to distribute my scalp’s natural oils down the hair shaft. Then, I apply a few drops of a lightweight, leave-in scalp serum. I use my fingertips or a silicone massager to gently massage the serum in for a minute or two. This relaxing ritual helps to nourish my scalp and stimulate blood flow while I sleep.

The Surprising Connection Between Stress and an Itchy Scalp

The Anxious Itch

During a particularly stressful period at work, my scalp became uncontrollably itchy. There were no flakes, just a constant, maddening itch. I learned that high levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, which can manifest as an itchy scalp. It can also disrupt your skin’s barrier function, making your scalp more sensitive. The only thing that truly helped was managing my stress. Daily meditation and exercise did more to relieve the itch than any special shampoo.

How to Exfoliate Your Scalp Safely (Physical vs. Chemical Scrubs)

The Sloughing-Off Showdown

Exfoliating your scalp is key, but the method matters. I find that physical scalp scrubs, which often contain large salt or sugar crystals, can be too harsh and abrasive. They can also be difficult to rinse out. My preferred method is chemical exfoliation. I use a pre-shampoo treatment or a leave-in serum that contains an acid like salicylic acid (BHA) or glycolic acid (AHA). These ingredients dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, providing a much more even and gentle exfoliation without any harsh scrubbing.

I Stopped Using “2-in-1” Shampoo and My Scalp Thanked Me

The Combination-Product Compromise

In college, I loved the convenience of a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner. It was cheap and fast. But my scalp was always a bit flaky and my hair was never quite right. I learned that these products are a compromise. The detergents needed to clean your scalp are very different from the conditioning agents needed to smooth your hair. A 2-in-1 product can’t do either job perfectly. When I switched to a separate, gentle shampoo and a good conditioner, the health of both my scalp and my hair improved dramatically.

The Best Scalp Masks for Every Concern (Dry, Oily, Itchy)

The Targeted Treatment for Your Tresses’ Roots

Just like face masks, scalp masks can provide a concentrated dose of ingredients to tackle a specific concern. For my dry, tight scalp in the winter, I love a mask with hyaluronic acid and nourishing oils. For times when my scalp feels oily and congested, a clay-based mask with kaolin or bentonite clay helps to absorb excess sebum. And when my scalp is feeling itchy and irritated, a mask with soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal or aloe vera provides instant relief. It’s a great weekly treatment for targeted scalp care.

How to Transition Your Scalp Off Medicated Shampoos

The Weaning-Off Process

I used a medicated dandruff shampoo for years. When my condition improved, I wanted to transition to a gentler, daily shampoo, but I was afraid the flakes would come back. My dermatologist recommended a “weaning off” process. For the first few weeks, I would alternate between my medicated shampoo and a new, gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Then, I reduced the medicated shampoo to just once a week, using the gentle one for all other washes. This gradual transition allowed my scalp to adjust without a sudden recurrence of my dandruff.

The Financial Cost of a Dedicated Scalp Care Routine

The Investment in Your Roots

Building a dedicated scalp care routine can seem like another added expense. A scalp serum can cost anywhere from $10 to $50, and a good clarifying shampoo might be $20. However, I’ve found that investing in my scalp health has actually saved me money in the long run. Because my scalp is more balanced, I can go longer between washes, which means I use less shampoo and conditioner. My hair is also healthier, so I spend less on expensive deep conditioning treatments and styling products to try and “fix” it.

My Top 5 “Scalp-First” Hair Brands

The Brands That Get to the Root of the Problem

Many haircare brands are now adopting a “scalp-first” philosophy. My top five are leading the charge. First, Briogeo, with its amazing charcoal-based scalp scrub and detox line. Second, Act+Acre, which focuses on cold-pressed ingredients and scalp health. Third, The Inkey List, for making targeted scalp treatments with active ingredients incredibly affordable. Fourth, Aveda, a classic brand that has always emphasized scalp balance with its Pramāsana line. And fifth, Head & Shoulders, for its accessible, dermatologist-tested, medicated formulas that really work.

The Best Brushes and Combs for a Healthy Scalp

The Tools for Gentle Grooming

The right brush can make a big difference in your scalp health. A boar bristle brush is fantastic. The natural bristles are gentle and are great at distributing your scalp’s natural oils from the root down the hair shaft, which is a natural form of conditioning. For detangling, especially when my hair is wet, I use a wide-tooth comb or a flexible detangling brush to avoid pulling and putting stress on the hair follicles. And for a stimulating massage, a simple silicone shampoo brush is a great tool to use in the shower.

How I Manage My Psoriasis on My Scalp

The Plaque-Fighting Plan

Managing my scalp psoriasis requires a multi-pronged attack. I use a medicated shampoo containing coal tar or salicylic acid, which helps to slow skin cell growth and reduce scaling. I let it sit on my scalp for at least five minutes. I also have a prescription topical steroid lotion that I apply directly to the plaques during a flare-up. And I try to avoid things that can trigger a flare, like stress and certain foods. It’s a chronic condition, so consistent management is the key to keeping my scalp comfortable.

The Truth About “Hair Growth” Serums and Tonics

Managing Expectations for Your Mane

The market is flooded with serums that promise miraculous hair growth. It’s important to manage expectations. No topical product is going to give you a brand new head of hair overnight. However, a good “hair growth” serum can create the optimal environment for healthy growth. They often contain ingredients like caffeine, peptides, and antioxidants that stimulate circulation to the follicles and provide nourishment. They can help to strengthen the hair you have and potentially encourage it to grow to its maximum potential, but they are not a cure for baldness.

The Best DIY Scalp Treatments (That Are Actually Safe)

The Kitchen Counter Scalp Savers

While I’m wary of most DIY skincare, there are a few simple, safe, and effective scalp treatments you can make at home. For a soothing, anti-inflammatory mask, a simple paste of colloidal oatmeal and water can be very calming for an itchy scalp. For a gentle clarifying rinse, an apple cider vinegar rinse (one part ACV to four parts water) can help to remove product buildup and balance the scalp’s pH. And a simple massage with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil is a great pre-shampoo treatment for dryness.

How to Soothe an Itchy, Irritated Scalp After a Hair Dye Appointment

The Post-Color Calming Care

My scalp is always a bit itchy and sensitive after I get my hair colored. The chemicals can be irritating. My post-dye calming routine is essential. For my first wash after the appointment, I use a very gentle, sulfate-free, and fragrance-free shampoo. I avoid any harsh scrubs or treatments for a week. If my scalp is particularly itchy, I’ll apply a bit of pure aloe vera gel directly to the irritated spots. This simple, gentle approach helps to calm the inflammation and soothe the irritation without stripping my new color.

The Best Protective Hairstyles That Don’t Stress Your Scalp

The Tension-Free Tresses

I love protective hairstyles, but some can put a lot of tension on the scalp, leading to a condition called traction alopecia. The best protective styles are the ones that are not too tight. Loose braids, gentle twists, or a low, loose ponytail are great options. It’s also important to give your scalp a break between styles and to properly moisturize and care for your scalp while it’s in a protective style. A style should protect your hair, not harm your follicles.

How a Silk Pillowcase Improved My Hair and My Scalp

The Friction-Free Fabric

I switched from a cotton pillowcase to a silk one, and the difference in my hair and scalp has been noticeable. Cotton can be absorbent and can cause a lot of friction, leading to frizz, breakage, and even a drier scalp. Silk is much smoother. My hair glides over the surface, so I wake up with less frizz and fewer tangles. I also feel like my scalp is less irritated and retains its natural moisture better. It’s a small, luxurious change that has had a real impact on my overall hair and scalp health.

The Best Routine for a “Sweaty” Scalp After a Workout

The Post-Exercise Head-Refresh

I work out almost every day, but I don’t want to wash my hair daily. I have a routine for my sweaty scalp. After my workout, I’ll use a clean towel to absorb as much moisture as possible from my roots. Then, I’ll use my blow dryer on the cool setting and aim it at my scalp to dry up any remaining sweat. This prevents the sweat from sitting on my scalp and causing irritation or clogged follicles. I’ll often finish with a light spritz of a non-aerosol dry shampoo to absorb any remaining oil.

I Used a High-Frequency Wand on My Scalp for Hair Growth

The “Buzzing” for a Better Follicle

I have a high-frequency wand that I use for zapping pimples. I read that the comb attachment could be used to stimulate the scalp. The device uses a gentle electrical current to supposedly increase circulation and create an oxygen-rich environment for the hair follicles. I used the comb attachment on my dry scalp for a few minutes every night for a month. While I didn’t see a dramatic, measurable increase in hair growth, the buzzing sensation was incredibly stimulating and my scalp felt healthier and more invigorated.

The Best Vitamins and Supplements for Scalp Health

The Internal Nourishment for Your Noggin

A healthy scalp starts from within. After talking with my doctor and getting a blood test, I started taking a few supplements that are known to be beneficial for scalp and hair health. Iron is crucial; being anemic can lead to hair shedding. Vitamin D is also important, as many people are deficient and it plays a role in follicle health. And a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats provides the essential building blocks for strong, healthy hair. It’s about nourishing the “soil” from the inside.

How to Wean Yourself Off Washing Your Hair Every Day

The “Hair Training” Regimen

I used to be a daily hair-washer, convinced my hair was too oily to skip a day. I “trained” my scalp to be less oily. I started by pushing my wash to every other day. The first two weeks, my hair felt greasy on the second day, and I relied on dry shampoo. But my scalp slowly started to adjust its oil production. After a month, I could comfortably go two days. Then I pushed it to three. It’s a gradual process of allowing your scalp to find its natural equilibrium without the daily stripping from shampoo.

My Review of a Dyson Supersonic and Its Effect on My Scalp

The High-Tech Heat for My Head

I splurged on a $400 Dyson Supersonic hair dryer, partly because I heard it was better for scalp health. The main difference is its intelligent heat control. It prevents the dryer from getting too hot, which can burn and irritate the scalp. It also has a gentle airflow setting that I use to dry my roots without causing a lot of friction or disruption. Is it a necessity? No. But the advanced technology has definitely made the blow-drying process faster and much gentler on my sensitive scalp.

The Link Between Your Diet and Your Scalp’s Health

Your Head is What You Eat

The connection between diet and scalp health is huge. When I eat a lot of sugary, processed foods, I notice my scalp gets more oily and itchy. Foods that are rich in healthy fats, like salmon and avocados, help to keep my scalp nourished and hydrated. And ensuring I get enough protein is crucial, as hair itself is made of protein. Just like with the skin on your face, a balanced, nutrient-dense diet is one of the most effective ways to ensure your scalp is healthy and functioning at its best.

How to Recognize and Treat Scalp Folliculitis

The Pimple-Like Problems on Your Head

I once developed small, itchy, pimple-like bumps along my hairline. I thought it was acne, but it was scalp folliculitis—an inflammation of the hair follicles, often caused by bacteria or yeast. The treatment was simple. My dermatologist recommended I wash the area with an antibacterial cleanser, like one containing benzoyl peroxide. I would use it like a shampoo just on the affected areas. I also made sure to avoid any heavy, oily hair products that could be clogging the follicles. The bumps cleared up within a week.

The Best Way to Apply Scalp Serums for Maximum Absorption

The Part-and-Pat Method

To make sure my expensive scalp serum is actually getting on my scalp and not just my hair, I use a specific application technique. I use the dropper to apply the serum directly onto my scalp in small sections, parting my hair as I go. Then, instead of just rubbing it in, I use the pads of my fingers to gently press and pat the serum into my scalp. This ensures the product is distributed evenly and has the best chance of being absorbed by my skin, not just my hair strands.

I Gave My Partner a Scalp Treatment. Their Reaction Was Priceless

The Gift of a Great Head Rub

My partner is a total skincare skeptic, but he complains about tension headaches. I convinced him to let me give him a scalp treatment. I used a nourishing oil and my silicone scalp massager. I spent a full ten minutes giving him a slow, deep scalp massage. He practically melted. He said it was one of the most relaxing things he’s ever experienced. His priceless reaction was a good reminder that scalp care isn’t just about hair health; it’s a powerful and often overlooked form of self-care and relaxation.

The Most Overlooked Area in Your Entire Beauty Routine: Your Scalp

The Forgotten Skin

We spend so much time and money on the skin on our faces, but we often completely neglect the skin on our heads. The scalp is one of the most overlooked areas in our entire beauty routine. We cover it with harsh shampoos, clog it with dry shampoo, and put it under tension with tight hairstyles. Giving your scalp even a fraction of the attention you give your face—with gentle cleansing, exfoliation, and nourishment—can have a profound impact not just on your scalp’s health, but on the health and appearance of your hair.

How to Detox Your Scalp from Years of Silicone and Product Buildup

The Great Scalp Un-Gunking

For years, I used conditioners and styling products loaded with heavy silicones. They made my hair feel smooth temporarily, but over time, they built up on my scalp and hair, leaving it feeling dull and weighed down. To “detox” my scalp, I did two things. First, I used a good clarifying shampoo twice in a row to strip away all the buildup. Second, I switched to silicone-free hair products. It took a few washes for my hair to adjust, but it soon felt lighter, more voluminous, and my scalp felt healthier.

The Best “Scalp-Soothing” Ingredients (Aloe, Oatmeal, Allantoin)

The Calming Committee for Your Crown

When my scalp is feeling itchy, red, or irritated, I look for products with specific “scalp-soothing” ingredients. Aloe vera is fantastic for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. Colloidal oatmeal, just like in a calming face mask, can provide incredible relief from itching. Allantoin is another great ingredient that helps to soothe and protect the skin. And for a natural option, chamomile extract is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory benefits. These ingredients are like a “calming committee” for a stressed-out scalp.

I Used Rosemary Oil on My Scalp for 3 Months

The Herbal Hair Growth Experiment

I saw a viral trend on TikTok claiming that rosemary oil could help with hair growth. I was skeptical but decided to try it. I bought a bottle of pure rosemary essential oil. A few nights a week, I would mix a couple of drops into a carrier oil like jojoba oil (never use essential oils undiluted!). I would then massage this mixture into my scalp and leave it on overnight before washing it out in the morning. After three months, I can’t say I saw a dramatic amount of new hair, but my scalp felt healthier and my hair did seem stronger at the roots.

How to Balance a Scalp That’s Both Oily and Flaky

The Dandruff and Grease Dilemma

Having a scalp that is both oily and flaky (a common sign of seborrheic dermatitis) is a frustrating paradox. The key is to use a treatment that can address both issues. The best solution is a medicated shampoo containing an ingredient like ketoconazole or selenium sulfide. These ingredients are anti-fungal, so they control the yeast that contributes to the flaking. But they are also effective cleansers that help to manage the excess oil. It’s about using the right targeted treatment, not just trying to strip the oil or moisturize the flakes.

The Ultimate Guide to Building a Skincare Routine for Your Head

The Face-to-Follicle Framework

Building a skincare routine for your scalp is just like building one for your face. Start with a cleanser (your shampoo). Choose a gentle, pH-balanced one for daily use, and a clarifying one for a weekly “deep clean.” Then, add a treatment step (a serum). If you’re oily, use a BHA serum. If you’re dry, use a hydrating one. Then, a moisturizer (your conditioner). Apply it to your hair, and make sure to rinse it thoroughly to avoid clogging your scalp’s pores. And finally, sun protection (a hat or a scalp SPF).