SCALP HEALTH

Though it’s hidden by hair, your scalp is still skin and merits its own care regimen to stay balanced, calm and free of flakes

1 CLEANSE REGULARLY

Shampooing is the first step to a healthy scalp. Skipping the process allows oil, dirt and product residue to accumulate where it can spur inflammation. Every one to three days is ideal, but if you have textured or coarse hair, you may have a drier scalp and go up to a week between washes. Choose a sulphatefree formula to cleanse without stripping. Try A Supreme Purify and Volume Anti-dandruff Shampoo 400ml, $14.99, Head & Shoulders.

2 START YOUR ROUTINE

Your scalp can become irritated, especially if it’s predisposed to oiliness, sensitivity or dandruff. An inflamed scalp can interfere with hair growth and lead to breakage, so take steps to keep it calm and balanced. Exfoliate once a week to remove build-up and flakes. Use a mask with chemical exfoliants such as salicylic acid to gently dissolve dead cells, or a physical exfoliator to help slough them away. Try B Scalp Detoxifying Bubble Mask, $24.99, Kristin Ess or C Longer Stronger Stimulating Scalp Scrub, $16.99, Grow or

D System Professional Balance Scalp Mask, $38.95, Wella Professionals.

3 RELAX AND REPEAT

Invest a few minutes in working the shampoo into your roots by massaging your scalp. You’ll stimulate microcirculation, which draws nutrient-rich blood to the scalp and encourages hair growth. Another benefit is its calming effect, since stress and other lifestyle factors, such as lack of sleep and poor diet, can impact scalp health. Stress is not good for your skin or scalp. Beyond that, if your scalp still feels itchy or uncomfortable, see a dermatologist.