The Perfect Scalp Care Routine Revealed: The Step-by-Step Guide
8 min readLooking for the best scalp care routine for a healthy, shiny, and beautiful mane? We've got you! Continue reading to learn more in this article.
Everyone is always talking about the best skin care routine and the perfect hair care routine, but we tend to forget the foundation behind any gorgeous, shiny, and healthy hair - the scalp!
When in fact, the scalp is not one to be underestimated - it is responsible for hair growth, prevention of common hair problems like dandruff and dry hair, oil regulation, as well as the absorption of nutrients and products. And don't even get us started on hair loss prevention!
So, I think we've made our point - establishing a good scalp routine is equally as important as taking care of your skin and hair. But what should a good scalp routine look like? What are the steps that you need to take, and what is the correct order to ensure maximum effectiveness?
In this article, we will tell you all the secrets to a perfect scalp care routine for healthy hair growth - so, if you are interested in learning more, just continue reading.
Step 1: Choose the right shampoo based on your scalp type
When it comes to building a great scalp care routine, one of the first and most important steps that you will have to do is choosing the right shampoo.
Keep in mind that there are different types of scalp depending on your genetics, as well as external conditions:
- Normal scalp
- Oily scalp
- Dry scalp
- Sensitive scalp
- Dandruff-prone scalp
If you choose a shampoo that doesn't fit your type of scalp, you may encounter counteractive results - for example, using a shampoo meant for an oily scalp when your scalp is dry can even worsen dryness.
That's because shampoos formulated for oily scalps tend to be more aggressive in removing oil, which is not what you need if you have a dry scalp already.
For this reason, we recommend the NuMe Acai Shampoo - made with all-natural, non-aggressive ingredients and the power of Acai, it is perfectly suitable for all hair and scalp types.
It improves elasticity, promotes hair growth, and ensures that your scalp is properly nourished with Omega 3,6, and 9, as well as vitamins B,C, and E.
Step 2: Wash your hair and scalp with lukewarm water
While we are still in the shower, another important step to add to your scalp care routine is to make sure that you are washing your hair and scalp with lukewarm water. It allows you to effectively cleanse your scalp without being harsh on the hair cuticles.
Cold or lukewarm water also helps maintain the natural moisture balance of the scalp and hair, preventing excessive dryness.
Hot water, on another hand, tends to be more aggressive on your scalp and hair due to the high temperatures. It strips away the natural oils produced by your scalp, which not only exacerbates dryness but can also highly irritate the scalp.
In addition, it can also cause the hair cuticles to open excessively, which leads to more frizz (our common enemy!), higher hair porosity, and breakage. If your hair is dyed, it can also speed up the fading of your hair color.
Step 3: Avoid using hair conditioner on your scalp
If you already have a good hair care routine, you already know that a good conditioner is an absolute must for having properly hydrated and nourished hair.
However, when using your hair conditioner, make sure that you are doing it properly - it should be applied from mid to ends of your hair, and not directly to the scalp.
This is particularly important because conditioners can weigh down the scalp and lead to build up, which clogs the hair follicles and often impedes hair growth.
It is also important to keep in mind that the scalp has a different pH balance compared to the rest of the hair - applying conditioner to this area may disrupt its natural pH balance, leading to dryness or excess oiliness.
Step 4: Be gentle when drying your hair
Once you've showered, conditioned, and gently rinsed your hair with lukewarm water, another step to add to your scalp care routine is gentle drying. Excessive heat or aggressive towel drying can exacerbate your scalp issues, especially if you already have a dry scalp.
Whenever possible, opt for air drying - it is the most gentle form to dry your scalp and hair, and it doesn't put unnecessary stress on the hair fibers.
When using a hair dryer, we highly recommend using one made from the gemstone tourmaline, such as the NuMe Signature Hair Dryer.
Hair dryers made with tourmaline are particularly gentle to the hair and scalp because of the gemstone's properties. It emits up to 6 times more negative ions than other materials, effectively locking in moisture and reducing frizz while allowing for faster drying time.
You will also love the enhanced hair shine!
In addition to your scalp care routine, when using a blow dryer, make sure to use the lowest heat setting possible. That's because high temperatures can strip the scalp of its natural oils and moisture, which can lead to a dry, itchy, and flaky scalp.
Step 5: Add a scalp serum to your scalp care routine
To finish your ideal scalp care routine, make sure to add one more step - using an effective scalp serum to maintain and promote the health of your scalp and hair. We highly recommend the NuMe Hairology Scalp Serum.
This revolutionary serum uses the power of four core plants - Alfalfa, Rosemary, Hops and Malilito, to alter the composition of the hair follicles and stimulate stiff scalp membranes. It also forms a protective barrier from the crown of the hair to the ends, resulting in a shinier, stronger, and thicker hair.
If you are looking for the secret to a healthier scalp, this is it!
7 Quick tips for a more effective scalp care routine
Now that you know the most important steps for an effective scalp care routine for healthy hair growth, let's take a look at some quick, on-the-go tips to really take your scalp health to the next level:
- Have a balanced diet - having a balanced diet full of nourishing whole foods is an absolute must for a healthy scalp. It provides the vitamins, minerals and proteins your scalp and hair need to grow strong.
- Drink a lot of water - hydration is an absolute must not only from the outside, but also from the inside. Aim for at least six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.
- Do regular scalp massages - massage your scalp gently and regularly to stimulate blood flow. This will not only help you reduce overall stress, but will also boost hair growth.
- Limit chemical treatments - if you are a fan of perming, relaxing, and chemical straightening, we have bad news for you - they can be particularly damaging to your hair and scalp, so it's best to limit them.
- Protect your hair in the sun - we always take good care of our skin under the sun, but often forget about the scalp and hair which can also suffer damage from UV radiation. Wear a hat and use a thermal heat protectant when you go out at peak hours!
- Avoid tight hairstyles - tight hairstyles can put an unnecessary strain on the hair follicles, leading to hair damage and breakage. Instead, opt for looser hairstyles to reduce tension on the scalp.
- Use natural oils - use natural oils to moisturize the scalp and reduce dryness and flakiness. We highly recommend reaping the benefits of argan oil for softer hair and a healthier scalp.
FAQ
What should I do for scalp care?
For scalp care, use a suitable shampoo for your scalp type and wash 2-3 times a week with lukewarm water. Gently massage the scalp to improve circulation. Avoid harsh chemicals and excessive heat styling.
Regularly hydrate and eat a balanced diet for internal health. Protect your scalp from sun exposure and manage stress effectively.
How do you get good scalp hygiene?
To maintain good scalp hygiene, wash your hair regularly with a shampoo that suits your scalp type, ensuring thorough rinsing to remove all residue. Use lukewarm water and gently massage the scalp to promote circulation.
Avoid excessive heat styling and chemical treatments, and maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients for overall scalp health.
What does an unhealthy scalp look like?
An unhealthy scalp may appear red, inflamed, or have flaky patches, indicating dandruff or dermatitis. It can be excessively oily or extremely dry, sometimes with itching or discomfort.
Hair may appear dull, thin, or fall out more easily due to poor scalp health.
Is it good to exfoliate the scalp?
Yes, it's beneficial to exfoliate the scalp periodically. Scalp exfoliation removes dead skin cells, product buildup, and excess oil, promoting healthier hair growth. It can also improve blood circulation and prevent dandruff.
However, it should be done gently and not too frequently to avoid irritation.