Nourish to Flourish LIVE: The Truth Behind Dry Hair & Scalp By rjoachim | February 26, 2024 Dry hair and scalp occur when the scalp doesn’t produce enough oil (sebum) or loses too much moisture, leading to:Hair: Frizz, lack of shine, brittleness, and difficulty managing.Opens in a new windowskinkraft.comDry hairScalp: Itching, flaking, and tightness.Opens in a new windowwww.cocoandeve.comDry scalpWhat causes dry hair and scalp?Several factors can contribute to dry hair and scalp, including:Internal factors:Age: As we age, our scalp naturally produces less oil.Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones, such as during pregnancy, menopause, or due to certain medical conditions, can affect oil production.Genetics: Some people are more predisposed to dry hair and scalp due to their genes.Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, like eczema, psoriasis, and thyroid disorders, can contribute to dry skin and scalp.External factors:Climate: Dry, hot, or cold weather can dry out hair and scalp.Sun exposure: Excessive sun exposure can damage hair and scalp, leading to dryness.Chemical treatments: Frequent use of harsh shampoos, hair dyes, or heat styling tools can strip away natural oils and moisture from hair and scalp.Swimming: Chlorine and salt water can be drying to hair and scalp.Lifestyle habits: Smoking, dehydration, and poor diet can also contribute to dry hair and scalp.It’s important to note that dry scalp is different from dandruff. While both can cause flaking, dandruff is caused by an overproduction of scalp oils combined with a type of fungus, while dry scalp is caused by a lack of moisture.Here are some tips for managing dry hair and scalp:Use gentle shampoos and conditioners: Look for products specifically formulated for dry hair and scalp. These products are usually sulfate-free and contain moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, panthenol, or shea butter.Limit shampooing: Wash your hair only 2-3 times a week to avoid stripping away natural oils.Use lukewarm water: Hot water can further dry out hair and scalp. Opt for lukewarm water when washing your hair.Deep condition regularly: Deep conditioning treatments can help add moisture and nourishment to dry hair. Use a deep conditioner once a week or as needed.Minimize heat styling: Avoid using heat styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons too often. If you must use them, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand.Protect your hair from the sun: Wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner with SPF when spending time outdoors.Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated from the inside out.Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can contribute to overall hair and scalp health.If your dry hair and scalp persist despite these self-care measures, consult a dermatologist or trichologist (a hair specialist) for diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.more_vert Posted in Stress Management & Relief and tagged condition, Dandruff, dry hair, hair dyes, harsh shampoos, medical conditions, Menopause