Maintaining a Healthy Scalp

My scalp tends to get a little irritated and itchy during this time of they year and my protective styling seems to exacerbate the problem. The reasons for this are quite simple and can be alleviated in a few easy steps.

Reasons for Irritation 

1. My skin reacts to the resin used in manufacturing the synthetic hair, even after I have soaked the hair in an ACV solution some of the resin might still remain on the hair and this can cause irritation.

2. Exposure to the air, normally my scalp is neatly tucked away underneath a thick layer of kinks and coils but braiding and cornrows expose the scalp to the air and this can cause irritation. 

3. WINTER...everything gets dry, my skin, my hands are ashy, lets not even talk about my legs (yeeek) so it goes to follow that my scalp will also suffer during this time. 

Just  remember this is normal unless you have a serious underlying skin condition,there is no need to panic. One of the most important things to remember is DO NO SCRATCH,  I know it's easier said than done but from my experience scratching just makes it worse and can cause small cuts in your scalp, rather treat your scalp before it becomes a real problem.  

My top 5 picks for maintaining a healthy scalp 

1. Mizani Custom Blend Scalp Tonic - this is a great in salon treatment, it soothes and treats dry scalp, it helps to restore the moisture balance of your scalp, with ingredients such as Tea Tree oil, Aloe Vera this treatment will banish that itch instantly. I have a treatment in the first week of my protective style. (available at Mizani Salons)

2.  Body Shop Ginger Anti Dandruff Shampoo - this is such a refreshing shampoo it will moisturize and sooth dry itchy scalp, with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties this shampoo will stop the itching in its "tracks". I use this shampoo with all protective styles. (R99 The Body Shop)

3.  Design Essentials Herbal Complex 4 - this product will instantly moisturize your scalp, a small amount of this product which contains rosemary, horsetail, black Indian hemp and ginseng extract will quell that itch and help nourish your scalp. I like to use this product when I have braids or crotchet weaves. (R165 www.dehair.co.za)

4. Jane Carter Scalp Nourishing Serum - will heal and sooth your scalp, with natural essential oils, botanicals and vitamins this serum helps to reduce itching and can control dandruff it improves the circulation to your scalp. This works best for me when I have cornrows. (R249 www.obulunji.com)

5. Paul Mitchell's Tea Tree Hair and Scalp Treatment - containing ingredients such as peppermint, lavender, and tea tree oil this invigorating and soothing treatment will banish that itch and at the same time repair, protect and moisturize your scalp and strands.  I like to use this one when I have faux locs as it helps to keep my hair moisturized. (R375 www.retailbox.co.za) 

What are your favorite remedies for alleviating an itchy scalp. How do you combat dry hair and skin in winter?

XXX 

Isabel