The care of the scalp is essential for managing dandruff. Keeping a balanced state on the scalp helps regulate oiliness, eliminate buildup, and prevent flaking or itching. The key lies in choosing the right product, washing gently, and avoiding overdoing exfoliation or dry shampoo.
Flakes often appear on the shoulders or along the parting line, and the immediate reaction is usually to rush to the bathroom and wash the hair more vigorously. However, when talking about dandruff, the focus should not be on scrubbing the skin, but on understanding what happens at the root. The balance of the scalp is fundamental to prevent the problem from intensifying or coming back. When the protective barrier is disrupted, the body’s response can manifest as flaking, itching, increased oiliness, or sensitivity.
The causes behind the flaking
It is common to associate visible scales with poor hygiene, but that is a myth. Dandruff can be related to oil production, the rate of skin-cell turnover, and the behavior of microorganisms that naturally inhabit the scalp. For this reason, the main objective is not over-cleaning, but restoring stability to the area.
Good practices for the washing routine
At this point, it is important to adopt daily habits that promote healthy hair:
- Choose the product according to the scalp: The shampoo formula should respond to the needs of the scalp, not only the hair length. In the presence of dandruff, it is suggested to alternate specific anti-dandruff or sebum-regulating cleansers with a gentle daily shampoo.
- Proper washing technique: Apply the shampoo primarily to the scalp, massaging with the fingertips. Scrubbing hard or using the nails only increases irritation.
- Deep rinse: Residues from conditioner, masks, or styling products that are not rinsed away properly promote buildup and can cause discomfort.
Care habits and prevention
Avoid product overload is as important as cleansing itself. Conditioners and nourishing treatments should be applied from mid-length to ends, avoiding direct contact with the scalp unless the formulas are designed for that purpose.
For those with excess oil or buildup from cosmetic products, periodically incorporating a clarifying shampoo or a specific scalp exfoliant helps remove the excess load. This deep cleansing should be occasional and not a daily routine. Likewise, the use of dry shampoo should be rare: although it temporarily absorbs oil, it does not replace washing with water and it leaves residues on the scalp.
Lastly, temperature is a key factor. Water that is too hot during showers and the hot air from direct heat styling on the roots can irritate the area and increase sensitivity.
When to seek professional consultation
While these cosmetic care steps help manage mild manifestations and improve the general condition of the hair, persistent symptoms require additional attention. In the face of constant flaking, severe redness, intense itching, or the presence of lesions that do not respond to specific products, it is advisable to consult a professional dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate medical treatment.
*Georgina Buscaglia is a specialist in color and hair care (@exhalapeluqueria)
