We routinely moisturise our skin, from our face to our feet, to help keep it soft and healthy. But, what about the skin on our scalp? Often overlooked, our scalps are subject to vigorous scrubbing when we shampoo and rarely given an afterthought.

SWITCH FROM SLS

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) can be added to shampoos to help them foam but, as well as helping to remove dirt from the hair, this harsh chemical removes the natural oils that help to keep our scalps in balance. The good news is there are natural alternatives that can help your shampoo to lather without SLS.

For a plant-based alternative look for shampoos that contain Yucca. Not only does Yucca help boost the activity of other foaming agents, it helps lower their irritancy and has calming, soothing benefits for the scalp.

STOP SHAMPOOING WITH SILICONES

Silicone wax is commonly used in shampoos to help keep hair shafts smooth. Whilst great for keeping our hair frizz-free, this sticky substance can linger on the scalp after shampooing. If the scalp sweats, bacteria can grow on the scalp and cause it to feel itchy.

COMBAT CHLORINE

Highly-chlorinated water can irritate the scalp and make it feel itchy. A fail-safe way to stop this is to wear a swimming hat when swimming and wash the hair with a clarifying shampoo after leaving the pool. Our Clarifying Vitamin Shampoo is packed with nourishing, organic nutrients that detox the hair whilst nourishing the scalp.

EMBRACE THE POWER OF PINEAPPLE

Did you know that dandruff is actually a build-up of dead skin cells that have flaked off the scalp? These stubborn flakes of skin can fall onto your shoulders and can also build up on the scalp and cause it to become both dry and itchy[i]. The good news is that there is a way to get tough on dandruff without using harsh chemicals. Pineapples contain an enzyme called Bromelain which helps break down the protein bonds that dandruff is made from. To fight back against flakes use our Irritated Scalp Shampoo. Packed with pineapple extract, it stimulates circulation in the scalp to help relieve and reduce dandruff.

DON’T SKIMP YOUR RINSE

Having an itchy scalp can also be a sign that the skin on your head has been aggravated by an ingredient in your haircare. Essential oils, fragrances and soaps are all known to irritate a sensitive scalp, so if you are prone to itchy scalp be sure to rinse your hair thoroughly after shampooing.

MAKE TIME FOR A HEAD MASSAGE

If you’ve overlooked caring for your scalp, treat it to a nourishing massage with warm water and hair-friendly herbs. Not only will this boost the condition and health of the scalp, it can also help ease tension in the body to help you relax.

OUR 5-STEP HEAD MASSAGE

Add a few drops of jojoba oil to a bowl
Warm the oil by placing the bowl in a bowl of warm water
Once the oil is warm to touch, place your fingers in the oil and work the oil into the scalp using circular movements. Apply the oil gradually, taking time to focus on different areas of the scalp
Leave the oil to work for a minimum of 30 minutes
After massaging, wrap the hair in a towel that has been dipped in warm water before shampooing your hair.

Six ways to care for your sensitive scalp