Your scalp contains several follicles from which hair grows. Each strand will grow naturally through sebum produced through these follicles by way of the sebaceous gland. So, if you don’t maintain a healthy scalp, this can affect your afro hair’s growth. This article will look at four reasons why you shouldn’t ignore your scalp and how you can treat these conditions should they occur.
Avoid Dandruff
This condition looks like flakes on your scalp and can be caused by a variety of issues. Typically, your scalp sheds dead skin and produces oil to form a protective barrier. However, this layer can also trap bacteria within which, if it rises, can lead to an infected scalp.
In addition, dandruff can also be caused by oily skin, stress, not shampooing enough or adequately, dry skin, and Malassezia (yeast) production on the scalp. While most people have Maleassezia present on their scalp, some can have an adverse reaction when this combines with excess sebum and results in product build-up. This build-up then leads to flakes which can be noticed more when you part your curls.
To combat dandruff, you need to ensure that you wash and condition your hair every 7 to 10 days with a sulphate-free shampoo to eliminate product build-up. Then, keep your scalp moisturised with a lightweight formula such as our Leave-In Conditioner With Manuka Honey And Avocado Oil.
Say Goodbye To Breakage
The curly, coily structure of afro hair means that the scalp’s natural oils cannot always make their way down the ends of your hair. This results in your ends breaking off as they become dry and brittle without any moisture. Breakage can also be made worse by using cotton pillowcases, hats and scarves, chemicals and relaxers, and tools like hair straighteners and blow dryers.
Instead, you could try using a satin pillowcase when you sleep to reduce friction and avoid the excessive absorption of moisture from your afro hair. Lastly, to ensure that your ends get hydrated and detangling becomes easier, give your curls a moisture refresh with our Everyday Curl Refresh Spray With Coconut & Jamaican Black Castor Oils.
Give An Itchy Scalp A Miss
When you use products that are not free from harmful ingredients like sulphate and artificial fragrances, you are more likely to develop an itchy scalp. Additionally, if you don’t wash your hair enough and still use heavier oils on your hair like castor oil, this can block and clog the pores of your scalp. This blockage then leads to product build-up and itchiness.
The treatment for an itchy scalp is similar to the one for dandruff. It includes washing and conditioning regularly, as well as using a lightweight scalp oil for moisturising purposes. If you suffer from product build-up, you could also try introducing a clarifying shampoo into your hair care routine for a deeper cleanse every two weeks.
Keeps You Away From Hair Loss
Like with breakage and traumatic alopecia, another form of hair loss can occur from chemicals like relaxers. Additionally, hair loss can also happen through traction alopecia caused by tight extensions or braids. Some solutions to prevent hair loss include avoiding tight extensions, relaxers and inappropriate tools for your afro hair like rough bristle brushes.
Furthermore, you could also try our Curl Elongating Gel With Flaxseed Oil & Rosewater. When applied to your curls, the Vitamin E in flaxseed oil can help treat hair loss and encourage new hair growth. Periodical use of this mixture could also nourish your scalp and provide relief from dandruff.
Now that we’ve covered our top 4 primary reasons to take care of your scalp, you can use our solutions to build your personalised routine. Always remember to use plant-based alternatives for your afro hair and scalp so that you can gently moisturise your curls without any harmful ingredients.