This is a topic near and dear to my heart for one very big reason. I’ve always had a very healthy scalp, even with all the bleaching and heat styling and dyeing that I used to do. But about a year or two ago, I started developing loads of flaky skin coming off into my hair, as well as itchiness, and it only got worse as time went on. I did everything right to try to help it. I didn’t wash my hair as often. I stopped coloring it. I stopped heat styling completely. I used all the shampoos and conditioners that are recommended for dandruff. Exfoliated. Stayed out of the sun. Used treatments. You name it, I tried it. But nothing seemed to work. Until I found the right combination of products that seemed to finally work. Here’s what I did:
- 100% Plant-Derived Squalane by The Ordinary- Found naturally in the skin, squalane has a very high emollience, is an amazing hydrator, and can be used to help replace the ongoing loss of hydration. Lightweight and fast absorbing, I love that I’m able to use this treatment for my dry scalp even at the start of the day without having to worry about my hair and scalp becoming an oily, greasy ball of floof. It’s non comedogenic, which means I don’t have to worry about any breakouts along my hairline, and is great for all skin types since you are meant to use this on your face too! Water free, alcohol free, silicone free, oil free, nut free, gluten free, as well as being cruelty free makes this product a must have if you have any kind of dryness pretty much anywhere on your body...but especially, as I have found, if you are suffering from a dry scalp like me! I use this by separating my hair into sections and dropping the treatment directly onto the scalp about two or three times a week. 100% Plant-Derived Squalane $7.90 is available at www.theordinary.deciem.com
- 100% Pure Argan Oil by Josie Maran- Yet another treatment that is meant for your face but still good for everywhere on your body, this bottle has only one ingredient in it as the name suggests. Also fast absorbing, this cold pressed argan oil nourishes and conditions my scalp, with instant soothing results on my dry, flaky patches. With essential fatty acids like Omega 3, 6, and 9, as well as Vitamin E and antioxidants, this treatment does the body(and dry scalp!) good, and if often referred to as “Liquid Gold”. I love layering this with the The Ordinary Squalane for maximum hydration, and the results are a nice and calm scalp, as well as healthy hair too! Side tip: this also works wonders for dry cuticles, elbows, knees...and you can mix it with your body lotion for an all over glow like none other! 100% Pure Argan Oil $49 is available at www.josiemarancosmetics.com
- Serene Scalp Soothing Leave-On Treatment by Oribe- I love this tube for many reasons, but the biggest one is probably that I don’t have to have the hassle of separating my thick hair to get the treatment all the way down to my scalp. In a helpful and convenient squeeze tube, this light leave on treatment is a staple for anyone suffering from dandruff and a dry scalp. It contains cooling mint and calming chamomile to soothe and balance the scalp, and doesn’t leave any flakey residue that you have to worry about later. I use this stuff almost every day, and it really does work! Serene Scalp Soothing Leave-On Treatment $48 is available at www.oribe.com