We think a lot about hair, but less about scalp—the skin underneath that actually keeps hair alive. A neglected scalp can show up as dandruff, flakes, itching, oiliness or even hair fall.
Dandruff isn’t just “dry skin”. Often it’s linked to a yeast that naturally lives on skin but overgrows in some people, causing flaking and itch. Anti-dandruff shampoos with certain ingredients (like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, etc.) help when used regularly for a few weeks. Leaving them on the scalp for a few minutes before rinsing makes them more effective.
Product build-up—from heavy oils, sprays, gels, dry shampoo—can also clog things and create a greasy, itchy mess. If your scalp feels coated even after washing, you may be using too many layers or not rinsing thoroughly. Clarifying shampoos once in a while can reset things, but not daily, as they may be drying.
Scratching with nails or sharp combs feels satisfying but damages the skin barrier and can cause tiny wounds. Massage gently with finger pads, not claws.
If flakes are thick, yellow, very itchy, or spread beyond the scalp (to eyebrows, sides of nose), it may be seborrheic dermatitis or something else needing proper treatment. Likewise, sudden patchy hair loss needs medical attention; it’s not a “shampoo change” problem.
Treat your scalp like facial skin: keep it clean, not overloaded, and be kind to it.
