During protective style season, scalp care is essential for maintaining healthy hair and promoting growth. These styles give natural hair a much-needed break from manipulation during the warmer months. However, scalp care determines whether your hair will stand the test during protective style season. Neglecting the scalp can lead to dryness, itching and hair loss. Proper scalp care during this time ensures the scalp’s health and our hair’s overall well-being.
When the scalp is well-nourished and free from buildup or irritation, it creates an optimal environment for hair follicles to thrive. Regular cleansing and moisturizing help remove debris, excess oils, and product buildup. Additionally, a well-hydrated scalp helps prevent dandruff and itchiness, which can arise when the scalp becomes dry and flaky.
Proper scalp maintenance helps prevent issues like tension alopecia, which can occur when styles are too tight or left in for extended periods without adequate care. Keeping the scalp moisturized and maintaining a healthy balance can minimize the risk of damage to both the hair and scalp. Investing time in scalp care ensures the success of our protective styles and contributes to our hair’s overall health and appearance in the long run.
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Regular Cleansing
Despite protective style season being a great way to leave your hair troubles in the past, you need to continue keeping the foundation clean. With braids, the upkeep can be extremely taxing on the scalp. From back-to-back oil applications to smoothing out baby hairs with heavy edge controls, those products can create massive buildups that lead to an itchy and flaky scalp.
Make Moisture A Priority
With the days getting hotter and the appointments getting booked, there should always be mental preparation to keep your hair moisturized. To see great length retention, make sure to always have moisture in the scalp to avoid dryness during those summer beach trips, nighttime events, and festivals.
Use Products That Work For You
In the age of TikTok tutorials and DIY remedies, the lines regarding how elements affect an individual’s scalp are blurred. Always ask a medical expert about new products during protective style season to ensure you will not have an allergic reaction to any ingredients.
Space Out New Appointments
We all know the summer moves fast, and as we book our upcoming vacations, we must give our style sessions a break to allow the scalp to breathe. To promote health and hair growth, there needs to be a sense of space between appointments to ensure you stay updated with trims and moments of TLC on the scalp.
Nighttime Protection
Wear a satin or silk scarf or a satin pillowcase while sleeping to protect the scalp and prevent friction and moisture loss. This helps to maintain the integrity of protective styles and keeps the scalp moisturized overnight.
Monitor Scalp Health
Pay attention to any changes in the scalp, such as itching, flakiness, or irritation. Address any issues promptly by adjusting your scalp care routine or seeking professional advice. Regularly checking the scalp ensures that potential problems are identified early and can be effectively managed.
About the Author: Kenyatta Victoria is the lead writer for Essence GU, working on all things pop culture, politics, entertainment and business. Throughout her time at GU, she’s garnered devoted readers and specializes in the Zillennial point of view.