How to manage sensitive scalp
Sensitive scalp can be a factor of many reasons. From environmental, underlying conditions, infections and tension from certain hairstyles. Common symptoms of sensitive scalp are burning, stinging, dry scalp, vague discomfort in the scalp and redness usually there may not be any physical symptoms but it can lead to peeling or flaking of the skin. The main triggering factors identified are pollution, heat and shampoos. Your scalp has more blood vessels than any other area of the body, as well as lots of nerve endings which can cause a higher risk of discomfort. If skin is severely sensitive it may mean that the scalp is hyper sensitive.
Scalp tenderness is common for up to 60% in woman and 40% in men. The pain can come from things such as infections like folliculitis meaning the hair follicle in which the hair grows from has become inflamed which is caused by an infection with staph (staphylococcus) bacteria. This can be caused by contact with unclean items such as razors, clipper, towels or someone who has it. You can also pick it up from swimming baths or spas that haven’t been cleaned properly. Anyone can develop folliculitis but most common factors are tight clothes, shaving and having a weakened immune system which creates vulnerability to infection. These can look like small pimples similar to ingrown hairs.
Atopic dermatitis and Psoriasis are conditions that cause dry scalp and leaves flakes and abrasions that can pus or ooze causing skin cells to build up and create a barrier than can itch and sting. Atopic dermatitis is a form of dry eczema that causes the skin to lose moisture leading to damage and inflammation. Psoriasis is thought to be caused by an issue with the immune system causing your body to create too many cells, it creates red, crusty patches of skin with scales.
Shampoo is one of the main causes as the harsh chemicals or fragrances can wash away the natural Ph balance that protects the skin leaving it susceptible to microinflammations meaning the skin is responding to irritation with inflammation and attempting to repair itself.
Environmental issues can be caused from the sun (such a sunburn) which is more common with people with fine hair. Pollution can also disrupt your PH balance.
Another cause can be from frequently using hair dye and relaxers that put a strain on your scalp not allowing it to recover.
Hairstyles such a tight head bands, tight plaits and helmets can also put tensions on the hair making your scalp sore.
Hormonal changes e.g. pregnancy, menopause and the menstrual cycle can cause more sensitivity for you than normal.
Food allergies or sensitivities also create a reaction weather they are in your products that you are using or due to digestion.
Expert Tip
To treat this issue, we would recommend Using a shampoo such as the Kerastase Specifique Bain Vital Dermo-Calm and the kerastase Symbiose range Bain Purete Anti-Pelliculaire shampoos for either oily or dry hair; the scalp scrub is also great to gently exfoliate and cleanse the scalp for both hair types. To help control your Sensitive scalps we recommend washing more carefully and brushing your hair gently. These shampoos have been developed to give your scalp the gentle cleaning and care it needs.
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My name is Marlie, I love what I do and always look forward to learning new techniques and products. Being creative and socialising with clients is important to me as to make them feel comfortable and special. I always aim to give them fabulous hair so that they leave the salon happier than when they came in.