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How do I Maintain a Healthy Scalp?

B. Miller
B. Miller

To maintain a healthy scalp, and make your hair look as healthy as possible, it is important to care for your scalp by carefully choosing the hair products you use as well as increasing blood flow to the area and preventing dryness. A healthy scalp will not look oily or greasy, and will not have dandruff; if any of these problems are occurring, that is a sign that you need to make some changes to your beauty routine. To maintain a scalp that is healthy, choose a gentle shampoo for regular use, and a conditioner containing ingredients like shea butter or jojoba oil to gently moisturize the skin as well as the hair.

Shampoo is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy scalp. The shampoo should be gently cleansing and not contain any harsh ingredients; if a certain shampoo appears to be bothering you, try switching to a different one to see if it makes a difference. Moisturizing conditioner used every time you shampoo will also help maintain a healthy scalp. In addition, it is important to keep in mind that if you can't seem to get a healthy scalp no matter what you do, it might be necessary to visit a dermatologist to make sure you do not have a skin condition such as a fungal infection of the scalp.

A sebaceous cyst on a scalp.
A sebaceous cyst on a scalp.

Protecting the scalp from heat is another way to get a healthy scalp. This means washing the hair with lukewarm rather than scalding hot water, and only washing as often as necessary. Some people can go a few days in between hair washes, which is better for both the scalp and the hair because it reduces frizz. When styling the hair, avoid using a blow dryer if possible, which can also quickly dry out the scalp and cause dandruff. Allow the hair to air dry, or use the blow dryer on a lower heat setting and never blast it directly on the scalp.

A scalp massager may be used to improve circulation and regulate dryness.
A scalp massager may be used to improve circulation and regulate dryness.

Increasing blood flow to the scalp is another way to make sure it stays healthy. Every time you shampoo your hair, massage the fingers into the scalp to stimulate blood flow. When you are spending time in the sun, wear a hat to prevent getting a sunburn on the scalp, which can not just cause dryness and peeling, but could even lead to skin cancer. Taking some time to care for your scalp will ensure it stays healthy.

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    • A sebaceous cyst on a scalp.
      By: Paul Huxley
      A sebaceous cyst on a scalp.
    • A scalp massager may be used to improve circulation and regulate dryness.
      By: vlabo
      A scalp massager may be used to improve circulation and regulate dryness.
    • Urea lotions may be used to treat dry scalps.
      By: roblan
      Urea lotions may be used to treat dry scalps.
    • Diet may affect the health of a person's scalp.
      By: monticellllo
      Diet may affect the health of a person's scalp.
    • Using the right kind of shampoo is an important part of maintaining a healthy scalp.
      By: Piotr Marcinski
      Using the right kind of shampoo is an important part of maintaining a healthy scalp.