WHAT IS DRY SCALP?
Since you can't see it, it can be tough to identify your scalp's type. Before you whip out the magnifying mirror, know that a dry scalp usually comes with feelings of tightness and is associated with visible skin flaking as well as itching. Started ticking the boxes? Read on to find out how to remedy your parched scalp.
DRY SCALP VS. DANDRUFF
We mentioned visible skin flaking as a sign of dry scalp, but are they directly correlated? The former, a skin condition known as dandruff, is just as common as dry scalp and can cause you discomfort and cramp your confidence. Dry scalp happens when it loses too much moisture and becomes tight, may be due to factors like cold weather, dehydration and excess hair product.
But dandruff doesn't always signal a dry scalp. Those pesky white terrorisers have a variety of causes, and is largely associated with Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that breeds on oily scalp areas. When your scalp’s natural protection gets weak, irritants made by Malassezia feed on the excess oil. This leads to inflammation on skin cells to shed faster than usual, and ta-dah - you get dandruff.
TREATING DRY SCALP
1. STAY HYDRATED
The first step to get your scalp in shape goes back to basics. Drinking eight glasses of water daily seems simple enough, but we're all guilty of under-hydrating ourselves on a busy day. Start setting phone reminders throughout the day to get your hourly dose of water and remember to stock up on hydration in particularly hot or cold climates that can be harsher on your scalp.
2. AVOID OVER-STYLING
Styling isn't just limited to curlers, straighteners and hairspray. Even the over-use of hair dryer can damage and dry out your scalp. Go easy on the heat (or save it for snazzy dates) and go natural as often as possible to let your scalp breathe and stay hydrated. Next time you want a different look, get creative with bobby pins or go straight for a new hairdo!
3. GET THE RIGHT SHAMPOO
Using the wrong shampoo may worsen your dry scalp by stripping away any leftover oils and hasten the discomfort and dandruff. Boggled by the bath aisle's options? You could look at specially formulated shampoos like CLEAR Deep Nourish Shampoo with grapeseed oil, that nourishes scalp 3 layers deep^^ for a healthy scalp and great looking hair.
Kick dry scalp off your worry list with these tips, and soon you'll be feeling fresh and looking fab from dusk to dawn - because nothing makes a better accessory than a gorgeous head of hair.
^^at epidermal level
CLEAR RECOMMENDS
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