How To Moisturize Your Scalp For Maximum Hair Growth

 

While we always prioritize our skin-care routines, we sometimes forget about our scalps. They need hydration just like the rest of the skin.

“Think about your scalp as an extension of your face,” says Gretchen Friese, MD, a trichologist at BosleyMD. “We need to keep the scalp moisturized to keep it healthy—and [keep] the follicles healthy for hair growth.”

here’s everything you need to know about moisturizing the scalp and how you can

maintain its health as part of your hair-care routine. 

The Importance of Scalp Moisturization

“It's important to cleanse and moisturize the scalp, because you need to get rid of product buildup and keep the area from getting dry, “Dryness leads to flaky skin and irritation in the area.”

Throughout the day, you can accumulate buildup in your scalp. This can be everything from dirt to the products you put in your hair, and even your own oils and sweat. The scalp produces sebum or oil to moisturize itself and hydrate the hair follicles, but the area needs to be cleaned, managed, and treated to help maintain its health. 

A dermatologists explain that a well-moisturized scalp can reduce and prevent dandruff, itching, and inflammation, promoting overall skin health. “Creating a healthy environment for hair to grow is essential for thick, healthy hair,” says trichologist Gretchen Friese. “Paying attention to your scalp health is as important as making sure your hair is healthy.”

How to Moisturize Your Scalp

There are many ways to take care of your scalp from the comfort of your own bathroom. You’re probably twirling a strand of hair, thinking about how to properly care for your locks. Here's the 4-1-1.

Friese recommends using a scalp massager when you’re washing your hair. “Doing a scalp massage in the shower while your conditioner is on your head helps to moisturize the scalp as well as bring circulation to the hair follicles,” says Friese. “Just make sure to rinse out all of the conditioner before leaving the shower.”

If you want to take an extra step in your hair-care routine, you can use a hair serum or treatment to give your hair that extra moisture it needs. Friese also notes that you can use a hair serum or treatment right before you take a shower to open up your hair follicles. You can leave it on for around 20 to 30 minutes before shampooing the product out of your hair. 

Below there are some further steps to consider adding to your scalp routine.

Change Shampoo and Conditioner

“Shampoo’s main purpose is to cleanse your hair and scalp,” says Dr. Chacon. “Conditioners replenish and moisturize the hair and scalp.” While shampooing can clean your hair, you must also balance oil on your scalp using a conditioner, which can help you “avoid over-producing oil,” a phenomenon called "rebound oiliness."  

Experts recommend avoiding shampoos and conditioners that have a strong scent or are formaldehyde-based and colored. “These products can actually cause more harm than good for those with scalp issues and may strip the skin of its natural oils,” Dr. Chacon says. "This would leave the scalp dry, irritated.” When shopping for shampoos and conditioners, find a product that has nourishing ingredients like keratin, vitamins, and oils that can clean, strengthen, and promote hair growth. 

Keep in mind that over-washing can cause the skin on the scalp to become dry and the hair to grow brittle. “Over-washing or using harsh hair-care products can remove the scalp's natural oils, leading to dryness “Additionally, certain skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis, can cause the scalp to become dry and flaky.” If you’re into clean beauty, make sure to find shampoos and conditioners that are sulfate-free, which can help weak, brittle strands. 

Add a Hair Oil and Serum to Your Routine

“A hair oil or hair serum is another great alternative that will keep the scalp nice and moisturized,” says Dr. Chacon. “You can apply it directly to the scalp.” If you’re investing in a high-quality hair oil, she recommends finding a product that has argan oil in it. “Argan oil is a great choice, especially oils that are fragrance-free, which is great for those that have sensitive skin in the area.” 

It’s extremely important to hydrate and moisturize the scalp to avoid breakage and damage to both hair and scalp. You can moisturize your scalp twice every two days if it's oily, but if it's dry, every two days. 

Use a Scalp Massager

When in doubt, give your hair that extra TLC with a scalp massager. This small hair brush will deeply clean away product buildup from the hair follicles, stimulate blood flow, and promote hair growth. Friese notes that you can do a scalp massage with conditioner, serum, or a hair treatment once a week to “keep the follicles healthy for hair growth.“