We are all guilty of neglecting our scalps. We focus so much on the hair that comes out of it, that we never even consider that the scalp might require some tender loving care as well. Neglecting to look after your scalp can result in extreme sensitivity, and a sensitive scalp can be far more serious than just a bit of tenderness here and there. It can be itchy, tight, painful, dry and flaky to name a few. It’s a common problem that plagues many people around the globe, but this commonality doesn’t make it any easier when it’s happening to you! However, there are many things you can do to help solve the problem, with little to no effort on your part.

Tip 1: Use Mild Shampoos

The more you wash your hair the more sensitive your scalp will become. Unfortunately most of us don’t have the option of going wild and chucking in the hair washing altogether because you know, life and all that. So, the second option is to switch to a milder shampoo. Essentially you want a shampoo that has as little harsh chemical elements as possible. You could try a specialist sensitive scalp product such as Wella’s SP Balance Scalp Shampoo. This shampoo has been formulated to be kind to the natural PH balance of the scalp, therefore keeping acidity low and reducing irritation, however if you fancy a more down to earth product then opt for an organic or natural shampoo. Matrix BiolageScalpthérapie Normalizing Shampoo is made with a botanical complex of ginkgo biloba, lemongrass, pollen and sage fused with purifiers, so only 100% natural ingredients with none of those artificial fragrances that we’re all so fond of. It deeply cleanses the scalp without drying the hair.

Tip 2: Go Easy on the Hair Products

A lot of commonly used hair products are actually alcohol based. These kind of hard chemical products are definitely not kind to your scalp and will result in you spending most of the day trying to discretely scratch your head to soothe that deep and annoying itch. If you really want to do your scalp some good, then get rid of those harsh hair products and opt for something a little gentler. Using a natural or organic hair product does not mean that you have to sacrifice effectiveness and style. The Sexy Hair Organics VolumizingMousse is made from 83% organic ingredients that have been combined to form a soft and gentle styling product that protects the scalp as well as providing volume and control for the hair.

Tip 3: Moisturize

One reason that a scalp becomes particularly dry or sensitive is because the natural barrier of the scalp has been broken. This means that your skin on your scalp is lacking in essential oils and therefore is far more susceptible to damage from the elements and from harsh hair products. One thing you can do to build this barrier back up is to simply moisturize your scalp. You can use your regular every day moisturizer for this purpose but you may find that you need something a bit more heavy duty to get the job done. Picking a moisturizer that is rich in natural essential oils is always a good bet. For example you could try the Macadamia Moisturizing Rinse from Macadamia Natural Oil.This product has been formed using a combination of essential oils that are able to repair that damaged scalp barrier and as an added bonus help to nourish hair from root to tip, as well as lessening tangles.

Tip 4: Use Soothing Rinses

If you don’t usually have problems with a sensitive scalp but have had an unexpected flare up then you might not want to commit to getting rid of all your beloved hair products. Luckily there is a short term solution. If you think that you just need some quick relief to deal with the immediate issue and are sure that your scalp will return to normal in no time then trying out a soothing rinse is a good way to go. It is possible to achieve good results simply by using a herb infusion rinse such as chamomile or lavender. However, if you want to be 100% sure that you’ll get the result you’re looking for then try a rinse that is specifically formed to deal with sensitive scalp issues. For example, the Redken Scalp Relief Soothing Balance uses both liquorice and eucalyptus extracts to alleviate tension within the scalp and provide a calm and soothing effect that lasts.

Keep your scalp happy and your hair will be happy too! Use the tips above to make sure that your scalp radiates health and loveliness. You might think that it’s a real upheaval to change shampoos or stop using your favourite hair products, but you will be amazed at the difference when you do. Not only will your scalp be sensitivity free, but your hair will be fuller, healthier and shinier as well.

Guest blogger: This week Maja, co-founder and editor of ShampooTruth.com blog shows us the wonderful tips for dealing with Sensitive Scalp