Summer comes with tanning by the pool and relaxing in the warmth. But it also comes with sweat and humidity, which can wreak havoc on your scalp. Flakes and oil can crop up quickly, which can lead to irritated skin. I like to call this ‘summer scalp’…
Summer scalp is tough to deal with, but you can manage it with these tips:
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Understanding the culprits
The key to managing a summer scalp lies in understanding the cause of the problem. Here are the usual suspects:
Heat and humidity
These factors create a double whammy for your scalp. Increased blood flow to the scalp due to heat boosts sebum production, the natural oil produced by your scalp. However, humidity traps sweat, which can dry out the scalp, causing irritation and flaking. This triggers the scalp to produce even more oil to compensate for the dryness, leading to a vicious cycle of oiliness and flakes.
Sun exposure
Just like your skin, your scalp needs sun protection. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the scalp, leading to sunburn, dryness, irritation, and increased flaking. The scalp is particularly vulnerable because hair doesn’t always provide complete coverage.
Changes in hair care routine
Just like your skin, your scalp needs sun protection. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the scalp, leading to sunburn, dryness, irritation, and increased flaking. The scalp is particularly vulnerable because hair doesn’t always provide complete coverage.
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Dealing with summer scalp
Now, let’s arm ourselves with strategies to combat summer scalp:
Scalp-loving shampoos
Opt for a gentle, clarifying shampoo formulated for oily scalps. Look for ingredients like:
- Salicylic acid: Gently exfoliates the scalp, removing dead skin cells and excess oil.
- Tea tree oil: Possesses natural antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping to soothe irritation and combat dandruff.
- Zinc pyrithione: Another ingredient with antifungal and antibacterial properties, it can help control oil production and reduce flaking.
Wash wisely
Washing your hair every other day is generally sufficient, even in summer. Adjust this frequency depending on your activity level and hair type. If you have very fine hair or exercise frequently, you might need to wash more often.
Use lukewarm water as hot water can further dry out the scalp.
While focusing on the scalp, avoid applying conditioner directly to the roots, as this can contribute to oiliness. Apply conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair for nourishment without weighing it down.
Avoid applying conditioner directly to the roots, as this can contribute to oiliness. Apply conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair for nourishment without weighing it down.
Try Scalp soothing solutions:
Consider incorporating a scalp scrub or mask into your routine once or twice a week. These products can help:
- Exfoliate: Remove dead skin cells and product buildup, promoting a healthy scalp environment.
- Soothe irritation: Ingredients like aloe vera or oatmeal can calm inflammation and reduce itching.
- Balance oil production: Certain masks containing clay can help absorb excess oil without stripping the scalp of its natural oils.
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Protect your scalp from the sun
Don’t forget to protect your scalp from the sun! Wear hats with a wide brim or opt for hair products with SPF protection when spending time outdoors.
Bonus Tip #1: Stress can also exacerbate scalp issues. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation to help manage stress and promote overall scalp health.
Bonus Tip #2: While all these above washing techniques cal help a ton, sometimes it’s a lot easier to head to your trusted hairdresser. Tell them what you’re struggling with, and they might help you “reset” your scalp. While flakiness can’t be eradicated in one wash, a trip to the salon can get your scalp to an easier-to-manage state.
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