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If you’ve ever dealt with dandruff or an agitated scalp, you know the struggle is very real. You may switch your shampoo, tweak your routine and try out every hack you see on social media without any avail. But before you give up, understand that dealing with dandruff or scalp irritation is more than what products you use. It has a lot to do with your lifestyle, diet and environment factors.
To help you understand and navigate your scalp care better, we sat down with Dr Monica Jacob, aesthetic physician and founder and director of Bodyz Wellness. She shared her insights on why scalp irritation and dandruff occur, what triggers them and most importantly—how to restore balance and health to your scalp. Are you ready for a deep dive?
While dandruff is often attributed to poor hygiene, the truth is that multiple factors—ranging from the weather to stress—can disrupt scalp health. Environmental factors such as dry air and extreme temperatures can weaken the scalp’s natural barrier, making it prone to irritation. Moving between air-conditioned spaces and humid outdoors can strip away essential oils, leading to dryness and flaking. Even washing your hair infrequently can lead to a buildup of oils, dead skin cells, and styling products on your scalp. This accumulation can irritate the skin and worsen dandruff. Take this as a sign to girl math harder.
Let’s talk about the internal factors now. Dr Jacob emphasises that a dehydrated body results in a dehydrated scalp, which in turn can cause flakiness. In response to dryness, your scalp may go into overdrive, producing more sebum (oil). This can create a perfect environment for the growth of Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that plays a significant role in causing dandruff.
Similarly, an imbalanced diet lacking essential nutrients like Omega-3s, biotin, and zinc can impact scalp health. Stress, often underestimated, is another key contributor as it triggers excessive oil production and inflammation, aggravating dandruff and sensitivity.
Using the right products is essential in maintaining scalp health. A hydrating shampoo and conditioner designed for sensitive scalps can prevent excessive dryness. Incorporating weekly deep-conditioning treatments locks in moisture and keeps the scalp balanced. Scalp oils, such as argan or jojoba, provide nourishment and strengthen the skin barrier, ensuring long-term hydration.
When dealing with dandruff, opt for shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole or salicylic acid to target flakes and irritation. Avoid harsh sulfates that strip natural oils and cause further dryness. Regular exfoliation using a gentle scalp scrub helps remove buildup, but it’s crucial not to overdo it, as excessive scrubbing can cause further irritation.
Lukewarm water is your best friend when it comes to hair washing. Hot water can strip essential oils, leading to dryness, while cold water may not cleanse effectively. Dr Jacob says that it is crucial to wash your hair regularly but not excessively since over washing can disrupt the natural oil balance. Scalp massages in gentle circular motions improve blood circulation and promote healthier hair growth.
What you eat significantly influences your scalp’s health, making diet a powerful tool in combating irritation and dandruff. Omega-3 fatty acids—found in salmon, walnuts and chia seeds—reduce inflammation and nourish the scalp. While zinc-rich foods like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas and eggs help control dandruff. Biotin-packed options such as almonds, avocados and sweet potatoes strengthen hair and support scalp vitality.
Dr Jacob also explains why we shouldn't overlook vitamins D and B. In the form of fortified dairy, fatty fish, bananas and leafy greens, they can replenish the nutrients essential for healthy skin. Antioxidants from berries, spinach and green tea protect against oxidative stress, while cutting down on sugar curbs fungal growth that can exacerbate scalp issues.
A consistent routine can make a significant difference in your scalp health. Start by choosing gentle, sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners tailored to your specific needs. If your scalp tends to be dry, incorporate a hydrating scalp serum or leave-in treatment into your regimen. Regularly exfoliate your scalp using a scrub designed to remove dead skin cells and product buildup. However, you must remember to avoid overdoing it to prevent irritation. Complement your routine with weekly scalp massages to improve circulation and promote relaxation.
Wear hats or scarves to shield your scalp from environmental stress, but ensure they’re made of breathable fabrics to avoid trapping sweat.
Remember when your grandmother would insist you sit for a weekly champi session? Regular scalp massages improve blood circulation and stimulate healthy oil production. Use nourishing oils like coconut or argan oil for added benefits.
Stress is a major trigger for dandruff and scalp irritation. Incorporate relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise into your routine to help keep your scalp calm.
While dandruff is often attributed to poor hygiene, the truth is that multiple factors—ranging from the weather to stress—can disrupt scalp health. Environmental factors such as dry air and extreme temperatures can weaken the scalp’s natural barrier, making it prone to irritation. Moving between air-conditioned spaces and humid outdoors can strip away essential oils, leading to dryness and flaking. Even washing your hair infrequently can lead to a buildup of oils, dead skin cells, and styling products on your scalp. This accumulation can irritate the skin and worsen dandruff. Take this as a sign to girl math harder.
Let’s talk about the internal factors now. Dr Jacob emphasises that a dehydrated body results in a dehydrated scalp, which in turn can cause flakiness. In response to dryness, your scalp may go into overdrive, producing more sebum (oil). This can create a perfect environment for the growth of Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that plays a significant role in causing dandruff.
Similarly, an imbalanced diet lacking essential nutrients like Omega-3s, biotin, and zinc can impact scalp health. Stress, often underestimated, is another key contributor as it triggers excessive oil production and inflammation, aggravating dandruff and sensitivity.
Using the right products is essential in maintaining scalp health. A hydrating shampoo and conditioner designed for sensitive scalps can prevent excessive dryness. Incorporating weekly deep-conditioning treatments locks in moisture and keeps the scalp balanced. Scalp oils, such as argan or jojoba, provide nourishment and strengthen the skin barrier, ensuring long-term hydration.
When dealing with dandruff, opt for shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole or salicylic acid to target flakes and irritation. Avoid harsh sulfates that strip natural oils and cause further dryness. Regular exfoliation using a gentle scalp scrub helps remove buildup, but it’s crucial not to overdo it, as excessive scrubbing can cause further irritation.
Lukewarm water is your best friend when it comes to hair washing. Hot water can strip essential oils, leading to dryness, while cold water may not cleanse effectively. Dr Jacob says that it is crucial to wash your hair regularly but not excessively since over washing can disrupt the natural oil balance. Scalp massages in gentle circular motions improve blood circulation and promote healthier hair growth.
What you eat significantly influences your scalp’s health, making diet a powerful tool in combating irritation and dandruff. Omega-3 fatty acids—found in salmon, walnuts and chia seeds—reduce inflammation and nourish the scalp. While zinc-rich foods like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas and eggs help control dandruff. Biotin-packed options such as almonds, avocados and sweet potatoes strengthen hair and support scalp vitality.
Dr Jacob also explains why we shouldn't overlook vitamins D and B. In the form of fortified dairy, fatty fish, bananas and leafy greens, they can replenish the nutrients essential for healthy skin. Antioxidants from berries, spinach and green tea protect against oxidative stress, while cutting down on sugar curbs fungal growth that can exacerbate scalp issues.
A consistent routine can make a significant difference in your scalp health. Start by choosing gentle, sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners tailored to your specific needs. If your scalp tends to be dry, incorporate a hydrating scalp serum or leave-in treatment into your regimen. Regularly exfoliate your scalp using a scrub designed to remove dead skin cells and product buildup. However, you must remember to avoid overdoing it to prevent irritation. Complement your routine with weekly scalp massages to improve circulation and promote relaxation.
Wear hats or scarves to shield your scalp from environmental stress, but ensure they’re made of breathable fabrics to avoid trapping sweat.
Remember when your grandmother would insist you sit for a weekly champi session? Regular scalp massages improve blood circulation and stimulate healthy oil production. Use nourishing oils like coconut or argan oil for added benefits.
Stress is a major trigger for dandruff and scalp irritation. Incorporate relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise into your routine to help keep your scalp calm.
While dandruff is often attributed to poor hygiene, the truth is that multiple factors—ranging from the weather to stress—can disrupt scalp health. Environmental factors such as dry air and extreme temperatures can weaken the scalp’s natural barrier, making it prone to irritation. Moving between air-conditioned spaces and humid outdoors can strip away essential oils, leading to dryness and flaking. Even washing your hair infrequently can lead to a buildup of oils, dead skin cells, and styling products on your scalp. This accumulation can irritate the skin and worsen dandruff. Take this as a sign to girl math harder.
Let’s talk about the internal factors now. Dr Jacob emphasises that a dehydrated body results in a dehydrated scalp, which in turn can cause flakiness. In response to dryness, your scalp may go into overdrive, producing more sebum (oil). This can create a perfect environment for the growth of Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that plays a significant role in causing dandruff.
Similarly, an imbalanced diet lacking essential nutrients like Omega-3s, biotin, and zinc can impact scalp health. Stress, often underestimated, is another key contributor as it triggers excessive oil production and inflammation, aggravating dandruff and sensitivity.
Using the right products is essential in maintaining scalp health. A hydrating shampoo and conditioner designed for sensitive scalps can prevent excessive dryness. Incorporating weekly deep-conditioning treatments locks in moisture and keeps the scalp balanced. Scalp oils, such as argan or jojoba, provide nourishment and strengthen the skin barrier, ensuring long-term hydration.
When dealing with dandruff, opt for shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole or salicylic acid to target flakes and irritation. Avoid harsh sulfates that strip natural oils and cause further dryness. Regular exfoliation using a gentle scalp scrub helps remove buildup, but it’s crucial not to overdo it, as excessive scrubbing can cause further irritation.
Lukewarm water is your best friend when it comes to hair washing. Hot water can strip essential oils, leading to dryness, while cold water may not cleanse effectively. Dr Jacob says that it is crucial to wash your hair regularly but not excessively since over washing can disrupt the natural oil balance. Scalp massages in gentle circular motions improve blood circulation and promote healthier hair growth.
What you eat significantly influences your scalp’s health, making diet a powerful tool in combating irritation and dandruff. Omega-3 fatty acids—found in salmon, walnuts and chia seeds—reduce inflammation and nourish the scalp. While zinc-rich foods like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas and eggs help control dandruff. Biotin-packed options such as almonds, avocados and sweet potatoes strengthen hair and support scalp vitality.
Dr Jacob also explains why we shouldn't overlook vitamins D and B. In the form of fortified dairy, fatty fish, bananas and leafy greens, they can replenish the nutrients essential for healthy skin. Antioxidants from berries, spinach and green tea protect against oxidative stress, while cutting down on sugar curbs fungal growth that can exacerbate scalp issues.
A consistent routine can make a significant difference in your scalp health. Start by choosing gentle, sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners tailored to your specific needs. If your scalp tends to be dry, incorporate a hydrating scalp serum or leave-in treatment into your regimen. Regularly exfoliate your scalp using a scrub designed to remove dead skin cells and product buildup. However, you must remember to avoid overdoing it to prevent irritation. Complement your routine with weekly scalp massages to improve circulation and promote relaxation.
Wear hats or scarves to shield your scalp from environmental stress, but ensure they’re made of breathable fabrics to avoid trapping sweat.
Remember when your grandmother would insist you sit for a weekly champi session? Regular scalp massages improve blood circulation and stimulate healthy oil production. Use nourishing oils like coconut or argan oil for added benefits.
Stress is a major trigger for dandruff and scalp irritation. Incorporate relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise into your routine to help keep your scalp calm.
