A good hair day changes everything: you look better, you feel better, and your self-confidence totally skyrockets. Healthy hair relies on several different factors but one that is oftentimes overlooked is the condition of your scalp. Just like the skin on your face and body, the scalp requires attention, care and maintenance to perform its job of promoting healthy hair growth; ignore your scalp concerns and you might find your locks start to suffer. Scalp care is not difficult and takes a mere few actions to ensure your scalp and hair are in their best condition. Below, we demystify everything to know about nurturing your scalp and the products you’ll want on hand to treat every concern.

Start simple: assess your shampoo

You’re highly likely to be using shampoo already, so it’s a good entry point to learning more about scalp care. Similar to skin types you will have a scalp type, whether that’s dry, oily, or normal (balanced). Your shampoo should be addressing your scalp type in order to preserve its health, but many people are known to choose shampoos according to their hair type. It’s totally possible to have a hair type that doesn’t align with your scalp type and the point of shampoo is to cleanse your roots, aka where your scalp is; therefore, go with a shampoo that treats your scalp type.

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - SOME BY MI

The SOME BY MI Cica Peptide Anti Hair Loss Derma Scalp Shampoo is the VANA Award-winning shampoo for addressing irritated, heated scalps experiencing hair loss. Users with both dry and oily scalps approve of this Centella Asiatica, Peptide + vegetable protein-infused formula for its balancing and replenishing properties. It even offers a Menthol-fueled cooling effect to quell irritation and keep the scalp calm.

The rules of hair washing

The frequency of washing your hair also plays a part within the bigger picture of scalp maintenance. Some scalps will require more frequent washing (daily) to get rid of buildup and prevent congestion, while others don’t need to be washed as often; this will vary from scalp to scalp according to your scalp type. Similar to facial cleansing, you’ll want to opt for lukewarm or cold water to avoid burning your skin or exacerbating irritation.

Is your scalp congested?

Scalp congestion occurs when sebum, sweat and dead skin cells accumulate on the scalp and in the roots. This can exacerbate any scalp concerns you’re experiencing, such as excessive oiliness or clogged hair follicles, snowballing into more serious issues like dandruff or sensitivity. Fortunately scalp congestion is not difficult to treat, nor does it take long for treatments to work their magic in rebalancing your scalp.

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - A'PIEU

Refresh and revitalize a congested scalp with the A'PIEU Mint Scalp Hair Vinegar. This clarifying treatment serves to break down accumulated impurities and soothe the scalp, controlling greasiness without drying out your strands and restoring it to a balanced state. Key ingredients include a 3-Mint Complex for reducing blemishes and dandruff, Vinegar for balancing pH levels, and Horsetail extract to reduce inflammation.

Treating your scalp

While some have an oily scalp, others may experience one with dryness; a dry scalp type requires moisture to balance the skin and prevent it from flaking. Your shampoo alone may not be cutting it in more extreme cases, so this is your sign to turn to a hydrating scalp treatment for additional support.

Courtesy of Korean Hair Care Brand - Treecell

The Treecell Collagen Boost Scalp Pack is specially designed to treat dry and fatigued scalps. Its Vitamin C derivative-enriched formula supports Collagen production, in turn nourishing the scalp to foster strong hair growth. When the scalp is sufficiently hydrated, your hair grows smooth, silky, and becomes easier to manage. In addition to boosting the scalp, this treatment also replenishes damaged hair by enhancing elasticity and forming a moisture barrier over each strand to prevent breakage and moisture loss.

Daily maintenance

Out-of-shower treatments are also available for you to complete your scalp care routine. These treatments typically give your scalp an extra kick of nutrients to support the condition of your hair, act as a refresher to soothe irritation, or a combination of both.

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - aromatica

Rosemary is a time-proven ingredient that has many benefits for the scalp and hair. It’s the star ingredient of the smash hit aromatica Rosemary Root Enhancer, a spray-on treatment that targets a plethora of concerns: an itchy, flaky or inflamed scalp; weakened hair roots; hair loss; and thinning hair. Salicylic Acid in clearing dead skin cell buildup, while a Black Food Complex provides the necessary nutrients for promoting hair growth. As it’s spritzed on, it imparts a refreshing cooling effect.

Scalp massage

Scalp massage goes beyond massaging for relaxation and loosening muscles; it actually yields many benefits for the scalp and hair. The action of massage enhances blood circulation and the flow of oxygen to your locks that help stimulate hair growth, in addition to mild exfoliation and even mood improvement. A scalp massage can be performed every single day as part of your self-care routine with a scalp brush, comb or guasha.

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Benton

Made from 100% natural Sandalwood, the Benton Scalp Brush Massager gets you a spa-worthy scalp massage at home. It’s formed with a total of 8 protrusions for it to be used on both sides. The lightweight material ensures your scalp massage sesh is as comfortable as possible, while being strong and durable to last you a long time. Aside from use on the scalp, it’s suitable for performing neck or body massage.

Wishing you all the best on your scalp care journey! Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook, as well as keeping an eye on the VANA Blog, so you receive all the latest news, promos and information!