“It’s generally as a consequence of environmental components, corresponding to climate,” she says. “Nevertheless, it’s extra more likely to happen when your scalp isn’t producing sufficient, or adequately changing, sebum (oil) – which tends to occur as we become older.”
Anabel additionally shares that though dry scalps are widespread, it isn’t practically as widespread as dry facial pores and skin because the scalp is an space that tends to usually fall on the oilier facet merely as a consequence of it containing extra oil glands than different components of our our bodies.
Is dandruff associated to having a dry scalp?
Though it is generally believed {that a} dry scalp can result in dandruff, consultants share that that is truly not the case and that there’s a distinction between the 2 circumstances. Dr Anastasia Therianou, advisor dermatologist at VICHY shares that dandruff is expounded to having flaking and redness, however this doesn’t imply that the hair is essentially dry. “Folks with both dry, regular or oily hair can nonetheless have dandruff,” she says.
So what precisely is the distinction and why are the 2 so intently linked in our minds? In accordance with Helen Reavey, founding father of Act + Acre, the principle distinction is the sensation of the scalp. For instance, when you will have dryness, the scalp tends to really feel tight, whereas with dandruff the scalp can really feel itchy and typically even look oily. However as a result of the 2 circumstances are sometimes lumped collectively, many anti-dandruff merchandise focused will truly deal with dry scalps and vice versa.
Our microbiome and the general situation of our pores and skin barrier performs a task in not solely impacts you facial pores and skin, however may have an effect on the well being of our scalp and hair. For that reason, it could be a good suggestion investing in a pH-balanced shampoo. In accordance with Olaplex artist Tom Smith, “while a hard scalp could be brought on by a wide range of pores and skin circumstances and well being components, dryness and flakiness typically stems from an imbalance of our pores and skin barrier on our scalp.” In different phrases, components corresponding to our food plan and air pollution can result in adjustments within the scalp’s microbiome, leading to dryness.
So what substances ought to I search for?
Samantha Cuisick, Olaplex ambassador and founding father of Samantha Cuisick London and Sta Studios, advises on the lookout for shampoos that comprise moisturising and hydrating substances corresponding to aloe vera and hyaluronic acid, in addition to pure oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil or argan oil. You too can flip to hair merchandise that comprise substances used as extra conventional cures for clearing out impurities and treating dry scalps, together with tea tree oil, peppermint oil and apple cider vinegar.
If you happen to’re susceptible to allergic reactions or have a delicate scalp, you’d usually wish to go for a hypoallergenic shampoo or one which’s dye- and fragrance-free. Samantha additionally recommends sulphate-free choices as they’ll strip away the pure oils on the scalp, which may additionally result in dryness and irritation.
In terms of clinically confirmed formulation, Dr Anastasia highlights energetic substances like ketoconazole, selenium sulphide, piroctone olamine, salicylic acid, ciclopirox and zinc pyrithione to assist ease a dry scalp. Nevertheless, in case your dry scalp is brought on by a particular pores and skin situation like eczema, dermatitis or scalp psoriasis, we strongly suggest chatting with a dermatologist for recommendation concerning a medicated shampoo.
Does dry scalp trigger hair loss?
Specialists agree that whereas a dry scalp is excessive unlikely to be the basis reason for hair loss, long-term dry scalp points can might amplify hair loss and hinder hair development. In accordance with Helen, “dryness can result in itchiness and scratching, doubtlessly damaging hair follicles and inflicting breakage or hair loss.” Plus, a scalp that lacks moisture may have an effect on the general well being of your hair, making it extra susceptible to breakage, cut up ends and doubtlessly thinning hair.
