Great hair grows from a healthy scalp, so get to the root of your hair issues with a new crop of scalp-loving products, and some tips from top hair specialists on common scalp issues.
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Problem-prone scalp? Cleanse and soothe
Dry, tight and itchy patches are all common but, according to trichologist Philip Kingsley, “a flaky, itchy scalp can trigger hair loss, so maintaining a healthy scalp environment is key to supporting hair growth.”
Treatments to try:
Eucerin Dermo Capillaire Calming Urea Shampoo, R112,99 for 250ml, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients to soothe irritation.
At least once a month, try an exfoliating ‘facial’ for your scalp in the comfort of your home, using Nioxin 3D Expert Scalp Renew Dermabrasion Treatment, R290 for 75ml. In just 10-minutes, the formula works to thoroughly remove signs of product build-up around hair follicles.
If you struggle with flakiness, try massaging a few drops of salicylic acid and argan-infused Moroccanoil Dry Scalp Treatment, R380 for 45ml, into your scalp and hair weekly to boost moisture.
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Oily hair? Banish build-up
“The scalp is naturally oily but, like skin, it can act up,” explains trichologist Andrew Bernie. This can be down to hormonal stress, a poor diet, or using rich conditioning products.” Product build-up can overload your scalp, so try a clarifying rinse instead.
Treatments to try:
Work Label.m Deep Cleansing Shampoo, R290 for 300ml, into your scalp. It’s packed with oil minimising tea tree and eucalyptus oils so your hair is left feeling squeaky clean after each wash.
L’Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil Nourishing Masque Balm, R94,95 for 300ml, quenches with rose- and flax seed oils, but won’t leave a scrap of product behind.
ALSO SEE: 6 Reasons Your Hair Is Brittle And Breaking
Dry hair? Try a co-wash
We’ve learnt this about skin – ‘squeaky clean’ isn’t a good thing. “Harsh shampoos can dry out and irritate your scalp,” explains Andrew. “Look for mild products with minimal additives, and no perfume or colourants.” Make every second wash a ‘co-wash’- this is where you wash with a cleansing conditioner, instead of traditional shampoo, so as to not strip away natural oils in excess.
Treatments to try:
Tresemme Keratin Smooth Cleansing Conditioner, R79,99 for 750ml, is paraben, dye and sulphate free.
Joico Moisture Co+Wash Whipped Cleansing Conditioner, R425 for 245ml.
Compiled by Beauty Editor, Martinique Stevens
