1. Lather, Rinse, Repeat and Moisturize
Wash your hair on a regular basis, but try to avoid over-washing and over-processing, as this strips your scalp and hair of natural protective oils. If your scalp produces a lot of natural oils, you may wish to wash it every day. If you tend to have dry skin, including your scalp, you may wish to limit washing your hair and head to twice a week, allowing your body's natural oils to accumulate and nourish your scalp. Wash with warm, not hot, water and avoid blow-drying, which can both dry out your scalp. Follow a wash with a mild moisturizer.
2. Common Scalp Problems
Dandruff is one of the most common scalp problems, evident in an itchy scalp and dry, scaly skin. Control dandruff adequately using a dandruff shampoo and eliminating scalp irritants like tight-fitting hats or poor diet. Long-term dandruff that doesn't respond to special shampoo may require a trip to a doctor or dermatologist. Acne may also occur on the scalp if hair follicles fill with excess oil and dirt. Daily cleansing may help reduce oiliness, as well as creams with benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Again, persistent acne may require a visit to the dermatologist. Shaving may lead to razor burn or bumps or ingrown hairs.
3. Less Common Scalp Problems
Abnormal hair loss and unusual scalp conditions can signal serious conditions that require dermatologist or physician attention. Head lice are small parasitic insects that feed off the scalp and cause persistent itching. Blisters, sores and bumps may indicate infection of the hair shaft or skin, cyst development or skin cancer of the scalp. Fungal infections, like ringworm, cause scaling, itching, reddening and even crusting and scabbing. Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease that causes dry, scaly patches to appear on the knees, elbows and scalp. Additionally, chronic poor scalp health may be due to poor diet, allergic reactions or some other illness that may require medical attention.
4. Pamper Your Noggin
Occasionally treat your scalp to a good scalp massage and natural treatments to promote blood flow, soothe nerves, relax muscles and promote hair growth. Massage with the balls of the fingertips placed under the hair. Use firm pressure to make circular motions. Massaging with warm oil may provide your scalp with even more benefits. Coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil and sesame oil are popular choices. Jojoba, avocado and diluted tea tree oils are also quite popular. In any case, enjoy the treatment, but make sure you aren't allergic to the oil before you use it.
5. Let Your Hair Down
Daily habits are very important to scalp health. Exercising and getting adequate sleep are a must, as well as eating a healthy diet. Pay attention to the products that you use on your scalp and hair. Soaps, dyes, treatments and even shampoo may dry your scalp, making it dry and itchy. Limit sun exposure, and be sure to cover up with a hat, scarf or sunscreen if possible. Comb or brush your hair daily to remove hair strands that you naturally shed. Let your hair relax sufficiently as well. Frequently wearing a hat or pulling hair back into a tight ponytail may irritate the scalp, causing discomfort or even pull hair out.
