Scalpcare has quickly become the new skincare, as more research points to the connection between a healthy scalp and healthy hair. After all, the scalp is an extension of our epidermis, and therefore shouldn't be treated any differently. Oil buildup, dryness and flakiness can all inhibit hair growth or even cause hair loss. We tapped the experts for their best tips for helping clients achieve a perfect foundation for healthy hair.
"An optimally balanced scalp has a number of benefits for both scalp and hair—it prevents scalp issues such as itchy, flaky scalp, oily scalp, inflammation or irritation," says Debby Vellozzi, head of product development at Virtue Labs. "This optimally balanced scalp maintains homeostasis between an oily scalp and a dry scalp. Secondly, a healthy and balanced scalp creates the perfect ecosystem from which new hair grows in to yield the healthiest and best quality new hair growth."
Vellozzi recommends an inside out approach (in addition to using the right products), including a balanced diet. It's also important to condition the hair regularly, she says. This may seem obvious, but, Vellozzi notes, "it will keep hair free from knots that will not lay stress on your hair roots and will prevent hair breakage." A scalp massage also does wonders by helping to improve the blood circulation and evenly spread oils, making the roots strong and helping to keep hair hydrated, she adds.
Along with good habits, there are a variety of products to help scalp health. R+Co recently expanded its Super Garden CBD line with a CBD Scalp Soothing Concentrate. CBD is rich in micro-nutrients, like fatty acids, amino acids and vitamins, which help stimulate microcirculation and therefore improve oxygen levels in the scalp to nourish hair roots, according to the brand's product development team. In addition to CBD, hydrating and antibacterial coconut oil, stimulating eucalyptus and peppermint oils, damage-repairing hydrolyzed pea protein and hydrating and toning with hazel help create a healthy environment for hair to grow.
Likewise, Virtue Labs launched a Scalp Collection featuring the Exfoliating Scalp Treatment and Topical Scalp Supplement. The supplement is "like adding minerals and fertilizer to soil to yield the most abundant and highest quality flower, plant and vegetable harvest," says Vellozzi. It features the brand's Alpha Keratin 60ku, a highly active non-animal derived keratin that seeks out the most damaged areas of the hair to repair, fortify and resurface where needed most. The exfoliating treatment works to remove excess oils, residue and build-up from the pores and follicles with microfine rice exfoliants and natural fruit enzyme from papaya and pineapple. It also utilizes green coffee extract and caffeine to promote circulation.
Try introducing clients to healthy daily practices, paired with a solid at-home regimen, and watch the results unfold.