Routine Skin Care

Scalp Treatments

What causes scalp infections?

A lot of people suffer from scalp infections. When we are young our immune system is building up its strength. We use mild products that are low on chemicals and high on natural ingredients. However, as we grow older and are exposed to high levels of dirt and pollution we require stronger products that will fight these external causes to protect our skin and hair.

Scalp flakes, itching and dryness are signs of dandruff. When this condition worsens it is known as Seborrehic Dermatitis.

Don’t believe what every cosmetic giant claims

Most shampoos have high levels of chemicals that only “clean” our scalp. You may think of them as detergents used to wash off stubborn stains on clothes. These chemicals act aggressively on our scalp to get rid of dirt, oil and flakes. But they don’t treat the scalp condition that gave rise to the problem in the first place. The heavy dose of chemicals on our hair damages its quality and stunts its growth in the long run.

The importance of smell

The general idea behind making the perfect anti dandruff shampoo that most companies follow is the fragrance. This is mainly because of the way most consumers think. Whenever we go to buy shampoos and see a new product on the shelf we form our first opinions based on how it smells. This is what helps most of us make the decision to buy it or not.

That is why companies that make shampoos and other such products pay attention to the smell of the product the most. The chemicals mainly include those listed under the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients. This includes an average detergent and some trace amounts of herbal substances that don’t make much of a difference on use.

Bacteria imbalance

All of us have a minimum level of bacteria in our body. However, this is restricted to around 55% under normal circumstances. But if this figure starts fluctuating due to various hormonal and immune imbalances and dysfunctions then at 70% we may experience flakes and itching sensation on our scalp and at 78% this turns into serious discomfort with white to yellow flakes constantly present on our scalp and shoulder.

When our immune balances are spoilt our body is more susceptible to external chemicals that cause more harm than good.

The key to fighting Seborrehic Dermatitis is to maintain the right pH levels of our scalp. Most shampoos and other products raise this level beyond normal which aggravates the problem further.

• Zincplex

Zincplex is a useful natural ingredient that allows the pH level of the scalp to remain at its lowest normal. This can be bought from any pharmacy near you. You should use this along with a natural herb based shampoo to maintain the quality and cleanliness of your hair and scalp.

• Selsun Blue

This is a medicated product that helps control flakiness, oiliness and itching of scalp. It is recommended for use by those suffering from severe Seborrehic Dermatitis.