There is all this talk of soft, smooth, healthy hair - but where does it all start? At the scalp! Your scalp deserves just as much, if not more, attention than your hair because that is what is feeding your strands to be healthy and strong. 

A healthy scalp care routine involves regular cleansing to remove bacteria, sweat and excess oil from the skin. During these winter months, and maybe year-round, it is also important to take the necessary steps to prevent your scalp from over-drying. 

Hydration for the scalp is key 

Many common scalp problems arise from dry skin, and hot water from your shower is definitely not helping. Give your scalp a break from all the heat, and instead use lukewarm water and treat it to oils such as Castor Oil or Vitamin E. These oils work to moisturize and condition your scalp to help your hair look and grow healthier!  

Do you exfoliate your scalp?

Your scalp goes through the process of cell turnover just like the rest of your skin. So, it is important to exfoliate it on a regular basis to remove those dead skin cells from the surface of your scalp. You can use exfoliating shampoos, or you can use scalp massagers that work to exfoliate, loosen dandruff and increase your circulation on your follicles. They even help oils, serums and hair products work better. 

What is a clarifying treatment? 

Sometimes, your hair (much like your skin) needs a break from all of the products that are being used on it. This is where a clarifying rinse comes in. Clarifying treatments are used to remove buildup from excess product or dirt, which can cause hair to become stringy, lifeless and weak. You can simply combine: 1 tbsp. of baking soda, ¼ cup of warm water and 2 tbsp. of a shampoo into a paste and apply carefully on your scalp. Use a wide-toothed comb to brush it through your hair and rinse it off after 3-5 minutes. You can also use some vinegar to wash it off. The result is hair that is less weighed down and easier to style, and healthy hair follicles on the scalp.