There are few things more frustrating at least when it comes to hair care that is than when your scalp decides to turn on you. Drying, flaking, hair becoming weak, growth slowing, all things that make you wince when you think about them. Whether it’s a seasonal change or one brought about by growing up, it can seem complicated and nearly impossible to gain control. But the good news is control may not be closer than you think, maybe even as close as your fingertips.
Why does scalp care matter?
As we mature, a lot of different things go on with the top of our heads. First off, our bodies begin producing less collagen in general, which has surprising effects on hair growth. Collagen aids in the production of proteins, which is what hair is made of, and it helps to maintain the elasticity of hair.
Along with that, the follicles begin to make less melanin, causing the hair to gray. The follicles may also produce either too much or not enough natural oils, leading to clogged pores or a dry, inflamed scalp. So, not only can your scalp become inflamed from the irritation either way, but this also has a severe impact on the quality of our strands.
Room for growth
Keeping your scalp healthy and clear does wonders for hair growth and luster. A clean scalp helps cells to regenerate, allowing amino acids to form proteins. So naturally, new hair growth is promoted, aiding in bald patches and thinning hair. Not to say if you keep your head clean you won’t have bald patches, but it can certainly help slow the process.
Clearing dead skin from the scalp creates a healthy environment for the follicle as well. Over time, oil, sweat, dead skin and other pollutants build up on the scalp. When all of this is removed, the hair is able to maintain a healthy barrier, keeping it safe from breakage and harmful environmental factors. Alternatively, keeping a dry scalp moisturized and full of nutrients helps to prevent dandruff and dryness. Regular scalp massages help to exfoliate the scalp to remove dead skin and promote hair growth by increase blood flow to the area.
What to do?
There are a number of things you can do to combat an ailing scalp and restore it to its former glory. One of first, and possibly the easiest, steps you can take is a scalp cleanser. Free radicals can buildup on the scalp and cause premature ageing of the skin and hair to become rough and unruly as oxidation occurs. This can also lead to increased shedding. Alternatively, using products with activated charcoal which works to remove free radicals by sticking to them and washing them away.
You can also add foods high in antioxidants and vitamin C to your diet as this will help your body to fight them off naturally. Try adding in more berries, artichokes, kale and, my personal favorite, dark chocolate. Your diet can aid in more than just that. Eating foods high in omega-3, vitamin A, vitamin B, iron and of course protein help to promote healthy skin all over, as well as hair growth.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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