What to do when you have oily roots and dry ends?

Updated article, originally published May 14, 2022,

Whether you have a fairly normal, dry or oily hair nature, it’s not uncommon to find that sometimes your scalp becomes out of order and starts to require more regular washing. This state of capillary mixture it is not easy to manage, because even if the production of sebum is more dense at the roots, shampooing too regularly can dry out the lengths. But where does this imbalance that disturbs our tranquility come from?

Overdose of sulfates in shampoos

Although we now know that sulphates are not dangerous for the scalp up to 4% in formulas, many brands ignore these recommendations and continue to overdose their shampoos with this active ingredient. The problem ? Is that, as you surely know, sulfate is an ingredient that helps lather shampoos and to give you this pleasant impression of cleanliness. Except at the same time, tends to strip the scalp. And when the latter is very attached, its skin barrier begins to be less homogeneous. To remedy this, the skin will produce too much sebum to reconstruct his film: this is how the shampoos begin to accumulate. And in general, the more you shampoo, the faster the roots become oily… The circle is complete.

Silicones that tend to clog pores

Silicones, present in some shampoos, conditioners, masks and treatments, are very annoying. At first sight they make hair more beautiful and softer than ever, but in reality, they tend to coat them with a thin wax-like coating. If it covers the scalp, this greasy film can build up and clog pores skin. To take revenge, the latter will produce excess sebum. And you know the rest.

Lack of hydration of the scalp

It may seem like a paradox, but just because your scalp is oily doesn’t mean it’s properly hydrated. In reverse. In general, the overproduction of sebum shows dehydration of the affected area. If you can act, it’s important to do it do not confuse hydration and nutrition. But then, what can we use to moisturize the scalp? Aloe vera does the job very well. Rich in moisturizing properties as well as minerals, vitamins, enzymes and amino acids, this relatively inexpensive plant is used as a leave-in mask on damp hair. Once absorbed, it leaves the scalp feeling hydrated and feeling soothed.

Stress, hormonal changes…

Stress, fatigue or hormonal imbalances can be elements that lead to increased activity of the sebaceous glands. In this case unfortunately adjusting your routine won’t change the problem muchbut it can still tone it down a bit.

Since we are all different, it is difficult to diagnose at home or remotely. We therefore recommend that you consult a dermatologist to evaluate which is the best solution for you!

How to find the balance?

Not spreading the shampoo on the lengths

Since the shampoo flows along the lengths during rinsing, there is no need to apply it directly on it. The risk ? Dry them even more. But rest assured, the shampoo that will work it will come to remove the dust and the residues of pollution which will stick to it very easily.

Doing scalp scrubs if you can

If you have some time ahead of you, remember to erase your scalp. Since it’s a skin, this has to be one too free from impurities that can clog pores. To do this, you can use a brush specially created to meet this need, or you can apply a mechanical scrub. Both work very well to remove debris and increase microcirculation in this area. But be careful, don’t overdo it either. Because the scalp can be a very fragile and sensitive part of our body.

Avoid contact with strong heat sources

Hot water, hair dryer, styling tools… the heat dries the scalp drastically damaging the skin barrier and preventing the closure of the scales. All in all, it’s not ideal. As much as possible, rinse off the shampoo with warm water and air dry your hair in cool air. Even if it is much less pleasant, we guarantee you, these two methods will allow you to maintain a certain balance. When it comes to styling appliances, heat is sometimes more difficult to get rid of. So that your hair does not suffer too much, remember to apply a thermal protectant to your lengths which will guarantee its resistance to excessive heat.

And of course, if you have any doubts, if your scalp is itchy, flaky or starting to show red spots, don’t hesitate to consult a specialist.

An image credit: @Daria Shevtsova coming from Pexels