Shifting from Hair health to Scalp health
I am a colorist and hair treatment specialist with 20 years experience. I divide my salon time between Paul Labrecque Salon in New York City & Palm Beach, Florida. Because protecting the integrity of the hair and scalp has always been a priority for me I began studying trichology.
“The word “trichology” comes from the Greek word, "trikhos," meaning "hair." Trichology began as a specialty practice in Britain in the late 19th century.
As a trichologist, I am trained in the life sciences and evaluate clients based on history, health, lifestyle, genetic and environmental factors. As an expert in hair care and hair coloring, I offer individualized treatments and nutritional guidance, and I recommend lifestyle changes to improve the condition of the scalp and the beauty of the hair. One of my missions is hair loss prevention and retention.
" Here are five simple shifts that will lead you to having a healthier scalp and hair to combat hair loss and thinning, which is a problem for both men and women.
- Weekly Scalp Massages- Make scalp health a part of your grooming regimen. Once a week, pre-treat the scalp with oils and massage with your fingers before shampooing. To identify specific scalp issues that should that may need to be addressed, ask yourself a few questions.
Is your scalp itchy all the time? If so, the culprit could be anything from dandruff to congestion. In other words, those scalp muscles just aren’t firing like they should be, and no wonder when you think about all the things you subject your scalp to, from hair color and keratin treatments to hair extensions and those weekly trips to the blow-dry bar where hair is exposed to excessive heat for long periods of time. Weekly massage with oils that stimulate the scalp, like peppermint, tea tree, and citrus-based oils. They’ll not only enhance circulation, which is exactly what you want to b
also the scalp. Start your massage at the nape of the neck, using both hands and work your fingers up the head to the crown.. There’s a lot of area to cover so take your time. Spend 3 to 5 minutes.
- Ingestibles, Hair Supplements /vitamins and trace minerals - Ingestibles are a good way to ensure that your scalp is getting the proper nutrition. Saw palmetto extract, for example, may decrease hair loss and thinning. Vitamin A can stimulate sebum production, which moisturizes the hair and keeps the scalp healthy. The B-vitamins are also essential for hair and scalp health. Studies have linked biotin deficiency, Low levels of vitamin D, which has also been linked to alopecia, are becoming more common with the increased use of sunscreen. It’s important not to be deficient in, say, iron or vitamin D. First and foremost, it’s important to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water.
- Less is More-Try extending the time between chemical services like hair color or keratin treatments to give your scalp the time it needs to regulate itself. Or, if gray coverage is a priority and you can’t wait as long between services, apply a soothing scalp treatment the day before having hair color. Oils rich in lipids and fatty acids, are recommended.
- DIY Scalp Cleansers -Buy a plastic hair color applicator bottle and make your own scalp shampoo to use once a month to detoxify the scalp and reduce dirt and grime that build up at the base of the hair follicle. Make a solution of half shampoo—choose one created to absorb debris and reduce excess oils—and half hot water. Shake and apply to the hair, concentrating on the scalp area, not the mid-lengths and ends. (Stop by my booth on June 9th Royal Coils Health & Beauty expo to claim a complimentary applicator bottle along with other goodies to begin the shift in you shampoo regime
- Ease Tension-Everything from too-tight ponytails to braids and cornrows can put excess tension on the scalp.
Check out other Scalp Care Suggestions from The Scalp Therapist:
https://www.beautylaunchpad.com/7-ways-to-healthy-summer-hair-and-scalp
https://maneaddicts.com/2019/05/20/help-my-freshly-washed-hair-looks-greasy-what-am-i-doing-wrong/