I love the holidays. Crackling fires, over-sized scarves, pumpkin spice coffee Bing Crosby’s White Christmas, twinkling lights, ice skating in the park, endless sweets, the first snowfall, beautiful decorations, limitless window shopping, and time with family – nothing compares to the bliss of these little pleasures. My sensitive scalp is the only thing that hasn’t been affected. The cold weather, travel, excitement, and bustle of the holidays mean one thing: ‘tis the season to be…scratchy.
Scalps with Sensitive Scalp
The Best Way to Treat an Itchy Scalp
There are many causes of sensitive scalps, from allergies to pollen and product buildup, to stress, bacterial infections, and even conditions like psoriasis. The constant itchiness, embarrassing white flaky flakes, and discomfort that comes with scalp sensitivity are the worst. How to remove your sensitive scalp in time for the holiday season!
Itchy Scalp
Simple lifestyle changes
It’s no surprise that stress is one of the main causes of scalp sensitivity. This problem tends to be worse around the holidays. Take control of the stress in your life to improve your hair. This could be as simple as getting more sleep or going outside during lunchtime to enjoy some winter sun. The less stress you have, the healthier your scalp will be.
If you have sensitive scalps caused by dryness, a humidifier installed in your bedroom will do wonders. It’s not enough. Try a soothing oatmeal bath or massage a little mineral oil into your hair every two days to lock in moisture.
Wearing a looser hairstyle or letting the hair fall naturally can reduce irritation and give your scalp a break. For those who love food like I do, it’s important to consume enough omega-3 fatty oils, vitamin B and vitamin E in order to maintain a healthy scalp. You can ease your scalp pain by eating seasonal favorites, such as dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds and roast beef. (You know, since we all need another reason to indulge around the holidays…)
Change your shampoo routine
A sensitive scalp is usually a sign of not shampooing often enough, or not at the right time. Skin sensitivity can be caused by excessive product, allergens that linger, sweat and oil accumulation, or clogged pores.
You can avoid them by shampooing frequently. This is particularly important after exercise or when in an environment with allergens. Switching to a shampoo that is gentler on the scalp (try Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Shampoo with its amazing minty scent) can be a simple solution. Avoid shampoos that contain menthol and drying alcohols. Although they feel refreshing, these ingredients can cause irritation on sensitive skin. Opt for formulas that are sulfate free or contain silk and wheat protein.
Fear not if your scalp is showing visible signs (ahem, that doesn’t look like snow at your roots). Kenra’s miracle shampoo will eliminate those irritating white flakes and leave your scalp feeling refreshed.
Paul Mitchell Tea Tree shampoo
While you are in the shower, massage your scalp for two minutes. This will help to improve your scalp condition. Never shower with hot water, no matter how cold you feel. This is as bad for the skin as it can be for your hair and scalp.
Medication
If you have tried all the tricks but still aren’t able to find a remedy for sensitive scalp issues, it could be that you suffer from an infection or a condition, such as psoriasis. If your scalp problem persists, you can consult your stylist for advice or go to a dermatologist. They can either prescribe a specific medication or suggest an over-the-counter treatment. The treatments range from topical shampoos to oral medications. They are also available for many different scalf conditions.
It’s time to put the sensitive scalp out of your mind. Enjoy the winter months!
