Just like the skin, the scalp has sebaceous
glands which produce sebum (oil) that helps keep your scalp moisturized and is
protective to the scalp. This sebum is healthy as it prevents bacteria and
fungi from penetrating the pores. However, overproduction of sebum will lead to
an oily scalp and greasy hair as a result. Greasy hair will attract a lot of
dust leading to a build up of dead cells, dirt and bacteria that will clog and
infect the pores causing scalp infections and spoiling your overall look.
Causes of oily scalp
Although there are always exceptions,
an oily scalp can be caused by the following: genetic predisposition, hormonal
imbalance, stress, poor diet, weather as well as lack of regular and consistent
scalp and hair cleansing resulting in the build-up of oil and dirt.
Caring for an oily scalp and greasy hair
- Shampoo your hair on alternate days; at most 3
times a week just to keep the scalp and hair clean and well groomed.
Shampooing too little provides a good breeding ground for bacteria and
fungi. Shampooing too much irritates and strips off the oils on the scalp.
By stripping the oils away, the sebaceous glands instinctively replenish
the lost oils and you end up creating a bigger problem as the scalp also becomes
very sensitive.
- Use warm water to shampoo, not cold or hot water.
Hot water damages the outer layer of the scalp (epidermis). Rinse your
hair thoroughly after shampooing; leaving any remnants behind will also
irritate the scalp.
- Steer clear from harsh hair products; they have a
drying effect on the scalp as they strip off the oils and moisture on the
scalp. Use mild shampoos with a low or balanced pH or one that is specifically
made for oily scalp/hair. You can also use an antiseptic while shampooing
to control the bacteria and fungi multiplying on your scalp. For this
purpose, dilute a few drops (3 to 5) of leleshwa (African wild
sage) with your preferred shampoo, treatment or conditioner and apply as
usual.
- Condition your hair regularly. Opt for a deep moisturizing
hair and scalp conditioner which will not leave your scalp oily. For this
case, opt for a conditioner with natural and organic moisturizers like the home made avocado treatment. To oil your scalp, opt for natural oils that
will help in reducing oil production in your scalp like shea butter
and argan oil. However, apply and massage it in moderation to avoid
overdoing it.
- Reduce your stress levels. Stress leads to hormonal
imbalances which will lead to over production of sebum by the sebaceous glands.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle to cope with stress eg. taking a walk, dancing, yoga,
singing etc. Eat foods rich in antioxidants, essential oils/omega fats,
minerals, fibre and vitamins and maintain a high consumption of water to
keep your skin healthy and hydrated. A healthy diet and lifestyle will
always reflect on your skin/scalp.
- Lastly, when shampooing, combing or brushing your
hair; be gentle with your scalp. Applying too much force when shampooing will
irritate and strip off the oils on the scalp. Brushing too much and too
often moves the oils from the scalp to the hair and this will prompt the
glands to compensate with more oils.
This blog is aimed at providing
suggestions for the management of a healthy scalp and/or mild cases of an oily scalp
and is not a replacement to physician advice. If symptoms persist, it is
important to contact a physician.
