What hair goal are you trying to reach? You want it longer, softer, thicker, shinier or just healthier? Maybe your ends are splitting, it's dry and brittle or the itchiness is driving you crazy. These can all lead to unhealthy hair. Our scalp tells us when something is wrong. All of those symptoms are our scalps way of saying, it's time for a trim, you need more water or I don't like this product you are using. Let's go a little deeper:
Split ends- are caused from day to day activities like flat ironing, brushing, ponytails or maybe even your favorite hat. Ends should be trimmed every 3 to 4 months unless they are really bad. Trim the ends to keep them healthy so your hair won't break off at the bottom.
Alopecia- this is simply defined as hair loss. This can be caused from stress, malnutrition, anesthesia, extreme dieting, hereditary or too tight hairstyles. Be mindful of your hair as you experience different life challenges. Hair loss happens for many different reasons.
Itchy scalp- Many times this is caused by a product you are using or something you are eating that isn't agreeing with your scalp. Sometimes it's also because you aren't drinking enough water and your scalp is dry. Either way, it's important to cleanse your scalp regularly and stay hydrated.
Product build-up- This for sure will affect your hair. Your scalp needs oxygen just like your body does. If you have product buildup on your scalp, it can prevent the follicles from getting the oxygen they need to thrive.
Flaky Scalp- Dandruff, Seborrheic Dermatitis or Psoriasis. Consult with a Scalp Care Specialist or Dermatologist to understand how to combat the flakiness. There are many holistic solutions that can be recommended to help with the symptoms of these scalp disorders. (Read below to learn some essential oils that help with these problems.)
If you don't address these conditions early, they will worsen. Severe itchiness, excessive product build-up, severe flaky scalp can lead to scalp sores, split ends and alopecia. This can cause permanent damage if not addressed. If you are trying to avoid these outcomes, use some of the solutions recommended below that encourage a healthy scalp.