The Benefits Of Organic Scalp Care For Healthier Skin & Hair
When it comes to caring for our hair, most of us naturally focus on solutions that add shine, body, or target issues such as split ends and frizz. However, the condition of our hair also depends on the health of our scalp, which can be an easy point to overlook.
Here’s how using products with gentle, plant-based ingredients can help you improve not only the appearance of your hair, but also provide the foundation for a comfortable and problem-free scalp.
Why scalp care matters
The average scalp contains around 100,000 hair follicles, and they are all crucial to the ability of your hair to grow and renew itself. However, the skin in this hidden area can be prone to issues that affect the skin on the rest of your body: dryness, flakiness, oiliness, sensitivity or clogged pores.
It can be easy for hair care products to build up unnoticed on the scalp, until they cause noticeable problems such as dandruff, itchiness, or dull and lifeless hair. A well-nourished scalp will feel comfortable and lead to strong, full and healthy hair.
How organic products help
Many conventional haircare products that line the supermarket shelves contain ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, silicones and synthetic fragrances. These products are very harsh and can strip the natural oils out of the scalp and cause irritation. Over time, this can weaken the hair follicles and may even contribute to hair loss.
Organic shampoos and other natural haircare products, on the other hand, use only plant-based ingredients with no unnecessary additives or preservatives. This means that they are much kinder on the scalp than synthetic formulas, and reduce the risk of irritation while delivering the nutrients your skin actually needs.
Key natural ingredients to look for
If your scalp is in need of some TLC, here are some of the best natural ingredients to look out for:
Argan oil — the oil is produced from the kernels of the argan tree, and has been used as a natural remedy for centuries to treat infections and skin irritations and rashes. Argan oil contains high amounts of oleic (omega 9) and linoleic (omega 6) fatty acids, and is also rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and E.
You can massage a teaspoon of pure argan oil into your scalp for an intensive weekly treatment for dry or flaking skin. It’s easily absorbed and won’t leave any oily residue. Wait for 30 minutes before shampooing out. It might need a few repeat treatments, but eventually you will notice that the flakiness and irritation begins to clear up.
Argan oil can also be used in other ways, such as to soften and add shine to frizzy, flyaway hair and to treat brittle flaking nails. It’s also an excellent remedy for dry, cracked hands or feet, or other areas where your skin is in need of hydration and softness.
Jojoba oil — another effective yet lightweight oil that works in harmony with the scalp’s natural oils. It is non-greasy yet effective, and can be used on its own, or as an ingredient in shampoos and deep conditioning treatments.
Aloe vera — this natural product has traditionally been used to soothe and hydrate the skin. Look for shampoos that contain aloe vera if you tend to have an itchy or oily scalp, as it will calm and soothe without greasiness or irritation.
Tea tree oil — this product is naturally antibacterial and antifungal, so it is ideal if you have more serious flaking or dandruff. It will gently manage the condition without resorting to harsh products.
Other factors that affect your scalp health
As well as the products we use, there are other factors that can affect your scalp and the growth of your hair. These include stress, a poor diet and lack of sleep, so try to address these alongside changing your hair care routine.
Set aside some time for a weekly massage and deep conditioning treatment, and take care to protect your scalp from stressors such as strong sunlight and chlorine. You will soon notice the difference in the condition of both your scalp and your hair.
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