Noticing your scalp is itchier and flakier than usual? The experts say it’s probably due to these surprising factors.
It’s the time of year that you might be noticing some flakes on your scalp, before, or frustratingly, after your hair wash, and it’s likely due to a change of temperature.
“Your scalp skin is affected by your environment, internal health, lifestyle and products you put on it,” explains Dr Anatalia Moore, NHS GP and cosmetic dermatologist.
She adds that external factors like colder weather, hot showers, stripping products and dry skin types all trigger this increased flakiness you might be experiencing. So, that hot shower you take at the end of the day to warm yourself up after a chilly commute home could be doing more harm than good.
To help remedy this, we chatted to experts to find out the answers to your scalp-care questions. Plus, scroll down for our editor-selected hair products that promise to cleanse your scalp of flakiness.
Are flaky scalp and dandruff the same thing?
According to Stephen James, a consultant trichologist with over 20 years’ experience in the hair industry, the answer is no. “Flakiness and dandruff are often confused,” he explains. “Dry scalp flakes are typically small and white, whereas dandruff tends to appear yellow and greasy.”
He adds that, while flakiness comes from changing external factors, dandruff is caused by an overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia, which thrives in oily environments and can make the scalp feel itchy or irritated.
Read more: The best skincare products for autumn and winter
Are scalp scrubs good for fixing a flaky scalp? What about hair oiling?
These days, there’s a product for every beauty concern. Although there’s a wide range of hair products on the market, Stephen recommends getting your scalp assessed before purchasing any quick-fix beauty buys. This is because some scalp concerns may require medical attention if conditions such as seborrhoeic dermatitis or psoriasis are diagnosed.
“In mild cases, scalp scrubs and light oils can be beneficial, especially when dryness or product build-up is the cause. They gently remove flakes and improve circulation to the scalp,” he says.
Stephen suggests looking for products containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, or salicylic acid, as they target the underlying causes of dandruff and inflammation.
When it comes to hair oiling, Dr Anatalia advises caution.
“We don’t want to leave layers of these on the scalp in which microbes can grow and feed. Excessive oils, either from not washing hair enough, or from product residues can serve to irritate the skin rather than help.”
Read more: 9 best Dyson Supersonic hair dryer dupes
How often should I wash my hair if I have a flaky scalp?
Stephen tells me washing hair daily or every other day helps keep the scalp clean and balanced by removing dead skin, excess oil and yeast.
Dr Anatalia agrees, adding that hot water and shampoos can be drying, so to wash your hair with tepid water. As for the shampoo, Stephen recommends something gentle and pH-balanced, and Dr Anatalia says avoid scents and laurel sulphate. Instead, look for ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides and prebiotics.
The best hair products for a flaky scalp
The K18 shampoo has all the good-for-scalp factors our experts recommend. (Picture: Sephora)
K18 Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo
This shampoo from K18 is a pH-optimised, microbiome-friendly shampoo and so in line with the advice from our experts. It’s incredible for scalp health, particularly if you intend to wash your hair daily; the shampoo and conditioner from this range promise to not cause inflammation or dry skin.
Read more: This is how often you should be washing your hair type
Olaplex No.0.5 Scalp Longevity Treatment
This scalp treatment from Olaplex is dermatologist and trichologist approved. Simply part your hair and squeeze directly onto the scalp before massaging in thoroughly. You can use this either before styling wet hair or as an overnight treatment for fine hair. The treatment promises to hydrate and smooth the scalp.
Beauty Pie Youthbomb 360° Hair Restore Scalp Serum
Looking for an all-in-one scalp treatment? This miracle product from Beauty Pie promises to boost scalp hydration, reinforce the scalp barrier and revitalise thinning hair. If you’ve used scalp serums or oils you know they can be messy and heavy on the hair. This has a spray nozzle and a thin texture like a toner, ideal for daily application.
Buy now from Beauty Pie for £40
Read more: Our editor tried a professional scalp detox, here’s what she thought
JVN Hair Complete Pre-Wash Scalp Oil
Dr Anatalia mentioned that we shouldn’t be leaving excess oil to build up on our scalp, although the benefits of hair oiling have been documented. If you do wish to try your hand at oiling your scalp, this pre-shampoo treatment can be applied 15 minutes before washing, perfect for adding a luxurious head massage to your everything shower.
Hair Story New Wash Original
New Wash is a star product in the world of hair care. It is sulphate free, phthalate free, detergent free and 100% biodegradable. This is a cleansing cream, as opposed to the foaming shampoos we’re used to that might strip the scalp of oils. So whole it doesn’t foam, it will cleanse the hair as you need it to; just be sure to rinse more than you think you need to, to ensure all of the product is out.
Buy now from Hair Story for £48
Feature image: Freepik
