This post is sponsored by Head & Shoulders and SheKnows Media.
As a busy, active lifestyle blogger and social media influencer, my days are hectic from the time I wake up and get my workout in until the time I hit the pillow. I, like many black women, wear protective styles (wigs, weaves, extensions, etc.) because it’s much less time consuming to do so. I also wear protective styles to keep my natural hair healthy.
The downside? Extending time between washing to protect our hairstyles can lead to dry scalp, itching and flaking. As a person who wears a crazy amount of black, flakes are my worst enemy.
So what do we do? We pat our heads to soothe that itch so that we don’t mess up our hairstyles. Sometimes we pat our heads because we can’t even get to our scalps. Or we apply and reapply oils to our scalp hoping they will moisturize it and stop the itch.
I’m just learning that both of these habits and behaviors can make my scalp even more itchy and flaky. Did you know that dandruff and its symptoms (like itch and dryness) are a result of an allergic reaction to the fungus malassezia globose that is present on almost everybody’s scalp? Yes! Let me help you out, beauty!
I recently started adding Head & Shoulders products to my routine. Head & Shoulders Clinical Solutions Leave-On Treatment helps me keep my natural hair and scalp healthy and moisturized, which significantly reduces itching.
It fights itch, dryness and flaking due to the scalp active, zinc pyrithione (ZPT). This fast-acting leave-on spray has saved my life in between washes. This treatment also has been one of the best ways that I’ve combated the scalp stress that comes along with wearing tight braids and extensions.
Along with treating my scalp, I’ve been adhering to the following healthy scalp tips courtesy of Lisa Abbey, Founder and CEO of Flygirl Beauty Brand.
Tips for a Healthy Scalp
Lisa’s top tip is to condition the scalp. Your scalp is skin too, and it needs moisturizing just like the rest of your body, especially in winter. If you're using the right conditioner, it won't weigh your hair down or grease up your roots.
Lisa’s suggests that you always massage the scalp: Massaging while you have your conditioner and shampoo on stimulates the scalp and lifts more residue from the root area, like oils and dry shampoo buildup.
“Use a wet brush,” says Lisa. Wet brushes are great to use in-shower to stimulate the scalp, revitalize the hair and comb through lengths gently, without risking damage or breakage.
As a woman of color, hair plays such a significant role in my culture and style. I’m so glad that that I am now taking great care of my scalp. Now I can have healthy and moisturized hair no matter what style I choose.
