Hair and Scalp Care: The Skincare Routine You Didn’t Know You Needed
As a beauty blogger and hairstylist, I’ve seen a major shift in how we approach hair care. Gone are the days when a quick shampoo and conditioner were enough to call it a day.
Today, the conversation around healthy, beautiful hair has expanded to include something we’ve often overlooked: scalp care. Think of it this way—just like glowing skin begins with a solid skincare routine, luscious, healthy hair starts at the root (literally).
Let’s dive deep into the growing trend of scalp care, why it’s crucial for hair health, and how to create a scalp care routine that works for you.
Why Scalp Care Matters
The scalp is often treated as an afterthought in our haircare routines, but it plays a critical role in the health of your hair. Here’s why you should give it the attention it deserves:
1. Foundation for Hair Growth
The scalp is where every strand of hair originates. A healthy scalp creates the ideal environment for hair follicles to thrive, leading to stronger, healthier hair. I have had more and more clients with scalp sensitivities and hair loss issues. Creating the ideal scalp environment is key to maintaining beautiful hair that lasts.
2. Oil and Buildup
Just like your face, your scalp produces oil (sebum) to keep your hair moisturized. However, excess sebum, product buildup, and dirt can clog hair follicles, leading to issues like dandruff, itchiness, and even hair loss.
Dandruff can present itself in different ways. Often people notice the little white flakes that grace our shirt collars due to dryness or scalp irritation. Dandruff can also present itself in the form of yellowish greasy patches or raised bumps. A lot of us are familiar with cradle cap in babies, but many kids and adults alike can still suffer from this symptom.
Dandruff can be caused by a number of things. Seborrheic dermatitis is a form of eczema that affects areas of the body that secrete the most sebum, or oil, according to the National Eczema Association.
Dandruff can also be caused by contact dermatitis which is a result of the products we use. Our haircare products, hair color, and anything else that comes in contact with our locks will either help our scalp or possibly cause a reaction. While reactions are often mild, they are still a sign your scalp doesn’t like the products you are using.
There are many dandruff shampoos on the market, but I often recommend switching to a non-toxic brand. Our bodies aren’t meant to handle all of the chemicals we load onto to it.
We have been blessed by nature with some pretty incredible ingredients so why use the harsh stuff when we don’t have to! My go to recommendation is the Innersense Hair Renew Scalp Balance Hairbath and Soothing Conditioner and the Innersense Harmonic Treatment Oil for your dandruff and scalp irritation needs.
3. Blood Circulation
A well-nourished scalp boosts blood flow to hair follicles, which helps deliver nutrients and oxygen needed for hair growth.
This is a good reminder what we consume on the inside affects our bodies on the outside. The nutrients we consume on the inside, or lack thereof, will have a direct impact on our hair and skin as well.
A lack of nutrients is often the culprit to our hair and scalp issues. It not only affects our blood circulation but the growth of our hair as well.
I am often asked what a good supplement is to take to improve the health of my hair, skin, and nails. I recommend a clean and collagen-rich supplement. My go to collagen supplements to support hair and scalp health from the inside out are Ancestral Supplements Collagen and Ancestral Supplements Bone Broth Protein Powder.
Bone broth is one of the greatest nutrient-rich natural sources of collagen and protein which are both vital for vibrant hair and scalp health. I consume bone broth every day either in a protein shake (with Ancestral Supplements Bone Broth Protein Powder), my homemade bone broth, or Kettle and Fire Bone Broth for the extra busy days.
4. Preventing Hair Thinning
Ignoring your scalp can lead to problems like dryness, inflammation, and poor hair health over time. A proactive scalp care routine can help prevent these issues.
Finding the root cause of hair thinning can be hard to pinpoint. Stress, illness, surgeries, medications, and nutrition can all play a part in losing hair. Don’t ignore the signs your body is giving you.
For drastic hair loss, I always recommend a visit to your doctor. Losing a large amount of hair is a pretty good indication something in your body is off.
The Basics of Scalp Care
Scalp Health
Signs to Watch for:
- Flakiness or Dandruff
- Excessive Oil Production/Extremely Greasy Hair
- Hair Thinning or Shedding
- Scalp Dryness or Tightness
- Lack of Volume or Lifeless Hair
Treating your scalp with the same care you give your skin is key. Here’s how to build a simple but effective routine:
1. Exfoliation: Removing Buildup
Just like your face, your scalp benefits from regular exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, oil, and product residue.
Why It’s Important: Exfoliation unclogs hair follicles, promoting better hair growth and reducing dandruff.
How to Do It: Use a scalp scrub or a gentle exfoliating shampoo once a week. Massage it into your scalp in circular motions to stimulate blood flow.
Stylist’s Tip: Look for products with natural exfoliants for a gentle but effective cleanse. My go to scalp scrub is the Innersense True Enlightenment Scalp Scrub.
With ingredients like peppermint, Hawaiian Red Salt, and Apple Extract, your scalp will be feeling replenished and revitalized. The Hawaiian Red Salt is rich in minerals and is a gentle exfoliant to buff away any build up or dead skin residing on your scalp.
Shop Innersense True Enlightenment Scalp Scrub Here.
2. Cleansing: Choose the Right Shampoo
Shampoo isn’t just for cleaning your hair—it’s also for cleaning your scalp. Choose a formula that suits your scalp type.
For Oily Scalps: Opt for a clarifying or treatment shampoo to remove excess oil and buildup to restore scalp health like Innersense Hair Renew Scalp Hairbath.
For Dry Scalps: Use a hydrating shampoo with soothing ingredients like Avocado Oil and Tamanu Oil like Innersense Hydrating Cream Shampoo.
For Sensitive Scalps: Look for gentle, fragrance-free or essential oil fragranced shampoos with minimal irritants like Innersense Clarity Hairbath.
Stylist’s Tip: Avoid overwashing, as it can strip your scalp of its natural oils and lead to dryness. Aim for around 3 washes per week unless you have a very oily scalp.
Everyone’s body chemistry is different so shampoo when necessary for you. Personally, I choose to shampoo every other day and use a detox mask to clarify once a week.
I get the good natural oils from my scalp but by day three, I’m a little too greasy for my liking. I have clients who can go 3-5 days without shampooing. It all depends on your hair, oil production, and your preference.
3. Hydration: Moisturize Your Scalp
Dryness can lead to flakiness, itchiness, and a compromised scalp barrier. A healthy scalp needs hydration, just like your skin.
How to Hydrate: Apply a scalp serum, tonic, or lightweight oil to replenish moisture.
Key Ingredients to Look For: Sesame and Sunflower Seed Oils are great for hydration and soothing. Innersense Hair Renew Scalp Oil is gentle and moisturizing to soothe and replenish your scalps hydration.
This scalp oil promotes essential nutrients for optimal scalp health and hair growth all while supplying the scalp with much needed moisture to get rid of those pesky flakes and dandruff.
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4. Scalp Massages: Boost Circulation
A few minutes of daily scalp massage can do wonders for your hair health.
Why It’s Effective: Massaging your scalp improves blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. It also helps distribute natural oils.
How to Do It: Use your fingertips or a scalp massager to gently massage your scalp for 5–10 minutes. Who doesn’t love a good scalp massage, am I right?!
Stylist’s Tip: Incorporate a nourishing oil like argan or jojoba oil during your massage for added benefits. Create an at home spa experience with the Innersense Harmonic Treatment Oil, which is perfect for your at home scalp treatment!
5. Treating Specific Scalp Issues
If you’re dealing with specific concerns, here’s how to address them:
Dandruff: Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner formulated to treat your scalp dryness and irritation at its root like the Innersense Hair Renew Scalp Balance Duo.
Itchy Scalp: Itching is often a sign your scalp is dry or being irritated by the products you are using. Change products to see if the itching goes away.
For dry or itchy scalp issues, the Innersense Harmonic Hair Renew Set is designed to help moisturize and relieve itchiness with Tea Tree Oil and important fatty acids and essential nutrients to restore your scalps health at its foundation.
Hair Thinning: Incorporate scalp treatments with clean products, bone broth, and collagen support.
Stylist’s Tip: Consistency is key when treating scalp issues—stick to your routine and give it time to work. Good things take time, but hopefully with the right products and routine, you will see results rather quickly!
The Connection Between Scalp Health and Hair Growth
A healthy scalp is the foundation for hair growth. When your scalp is clean, balanced, and nourished, it creates the perfect environment for strong, shiny hair. On the flip side, neglecting your scalp can lead to issues like inflammation, clogged follicles, and poor hair quality.
Think of it like planting a garden: you can’t grow healthy plants in poor soil. The same goes for your hair! A body lacking nutrients on the inside will have a direct reflection on the outside as well.
Start with these simple and easy changes to implement tailored to your specific scalp needs. If scalp issues are severe, like extreme hair loss and uncomfortable skin conditions, always see your doctor for guidance and treatment.
I have seen a lot of scalp conditions over the years. Most can be treated with the right products and nutrients. Trust your body and what it is telling you. If irritation or hair loss persists, reach out to your medical professional.
Improving your scalp’s health will improve your overall hair health.
The Role of Diet in Scalp and Hair Health
Your scalp health isn’t just about what you put on it—it’s also about what you eat. A nutrient-rich diet supports healthy hair growth and a balanced scalp.
Key Nutrients for a Healthy Scalp:
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, these help reduce inflammation and keep your scalp moisturized.
Biotin: This B vitamin promotes hair growth and strengthens follicles. Foods like eggs, almonds, and sweet potatoes are great sources. If you feel you are lacking these essential nutrients, a Biotin supplement may be necessary.
Zinc: Zinc helps regulate oil production on your scalp. You can find it in foods like pumpkin seeds and spinach.
There is no substitute for a nutrient rich diet made up of whole foods. The foundation of your diet should consist of protein, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats such as coconut oil, avocado oil, or olive oil. The less a food is processed, the better!
Building Your Scalp Care Routine
Creating a scalp care routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple weekly plan:
1. Weekly: Exfoliate with a scalp scrub or clarifying treatment.
2. 2–3 Times a Week: Wash with a shampoo suited to your scalp type, followed by a hydrating conditioner.
3. Daily: Massage your scalp and apply a serum or tonic for hydration and nourishment.
4. As Needed: Treat specific concerns like dandruff or dryness with targeted treatments.
Final Thoughts
Scalp care isn’t just a trend—it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to improve their hair’s health and appearance. By treating your scalp like the foundation it is, you’ll notice stronger, shinier, and healthier hair over time.
If you’re ready to give your scalp the care it deserves, start small. Incorporate a weekly scrub, hydrate with a serum, and show your roots some love. Your hair will thank you for it!
Have questions or favorite scalp care tips? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear from you.
Here’s to happy scalps and beautiful hair!
Hey, Sweet Friend!
Welcome! I’m Ashley, a lover of beauty in all its facets. I am a hairstylist, writer, & girl mom passionate about helping women flourish by seeking beauty beyond the surface. I love to encourage women to create clean & healthy beauty habits & homes grounded in faith and live by my motto…clean, pretty, + simple. I would love for you to join me in your healthy beauty journey!