Dermatitis and Scalp Health:
Dermatitis, affecting the scalp, can be a source of discomfort and self-consciousness. Symptoms like itching, flaking, and redness can disrupt daily life and affect one's well-being. While treatment options vary, incorporating a plant-based haircare routine tailored to mimic the natural composition of the scalp can provide relief and promote healthier skin. Here, we explore how a diet and a thoughtful scalp care routine can be pivotal in managing scalp dermatitis.
What is Scalp Dermatitis?
Scalp dermatitis, particularly seborrheic dermatitis, is a skin condition that affects areas rich in oil-producing glands, including the scalp. It is characterized by red, scaly, itchy skin, and dandruff.
Texture:
The scales of dermatitis are thin and not well-defined. They can be oily or greasy, as seborrheic dermatitis often arises from an inflammatory reaction to yeast that thrives in oily environments.
Colour:
The affected skin may appear red on lighter skin tones and lighter or darker than the surrounding skin on darker tones. The scales themselves may be yellowish or white.
Feeling:
Scalp dermatitis can be extremely itchy and sometimes uncomfortable, but is not typically painful. The scales come off easily, often getting mixed with oil from the hair, which can make the hair appear greasy or unkempt.
Dietary Advice for Managing Dermatitis
The connection between diet and skin health is well-documented. For those suffering from dermatitis, certain dietary adjustments can help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Increasing intake of omega-3s can help reduce inflammation. Include sources like flaxseeds and walnuts in your diet.
- Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants can support skin health. Berries, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes are excellent choices.
- Probiotics: These support gut health, which is linked to skin health. Consider adding fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut to your diet.
- Hydration: Keeping hydrated helps maintain skin moisture and barrier function. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day.
Scalp Care Routine with Plant-Based Haircare Products
Adopting a scalp care routine that aligns with your skin's natural processes is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide using products that leverage plant-based ingredients known for their gentleness and effectiveness:
Step 1: Gentle Cleansing
- Use a sulphate-free shampoo derived from natural sources that gently cleanses without stripping the scalp of its natural oil. Look for additional ingredients like zinc that help manage oil content and flakes. Stimulate and Strengthen Shampoo has a cohesive pH to your scalp to protect and repair your skin barrier, plant extracts that strengthen, heal and nourish the scalp, skin barrier and follicles.
Step 2: Nourishing Conditioner
- Apply a conditioner or treatments with zinc, healing plant extracts and oils that are low in oleic acid. Malassezia feeds of the oils you produce naturally, this breaks down into a by-product called oleic acid, it’s a reaction to oleic acid that causes dandruff. Some of our favourite oils that we use in our haircare are Hempseed, prickly pear, grapeseed, flaxseed, pumpkin seed, these are just a few oils to help restore moisture balance without exacerbating oiliness and are all low in oleic acid. Strengthen and Shine is a light conditioner that will help control oil production and facilitate in healing.
Step 3: Scalp Treatment
- 1-2 times a week, before shampooing, use a pre-shampoo scalp treatment. Look for treatments containing ingredients that have algaes for antimicrobial properties like blue spirulina which has naturally occurring zinc helping to rid scalp of dandruff, allantoin for anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties helping to reduce flaking and itching or colloidal oatmeal to soothe irritation. Our Rejuvenate Dust is a multipurpose powder that can help alleviate many scalp concerns by simply mixing into our Nourished by oil, Conditioners or Shampoos.
Step 4: Moisturize and Protect
- Following your wash, apply a lightweight, non-greasy scalp serum that supports moisture retention and barrier function. Revitalise serum is a lightweight serum that heals, calms, reduces oxidative stress, promotes healthy growth while nourishing without any build-up.
Step 5: Avoid Harsh Styling Products
- Minimize the use of heavy styling products that can irritate the scalp or leave residue. Opt for natural styling agents like plant-based gels and serums that provide hold without flaking or causing buildup. Find products that facilitate healing while styling your hair.
Step 6: Regular Scalp Massages
- Incorporate regular scalp massages to increase blood circulation, which can aid in healing and keep the scalp nourished with oils. Use a few drops of a Nourished By Oil enriched with Hempseed and vitamin E to perform the massage, promoting skin health and relaxation.
Additional Tips for Scalp Dermatitis Care
- Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water, as hot water can exacerbate irritation.
- Limit Chemical Exposures: Reduce the use of colours, perms, and relaxers which can strip the scalp of its natural oils and aggravate dermatitis.
- Regular Check-ups: Build trust with your hairdresser to regularly monitor your scalp’s health and adjust your care routine as necessary.
- Red light therapy helps reduce inflammation and can alleviate the redness swelling and itching associated with skin conditions
By integrating these dietary adjustments and a tailored, plant-based haircare regimen into your lifestyle, you can effectively manage the symptoms of scalp dermatitis. Emphasizing natural ingredients and gentle care, you ensure your scalp remains healthy, hydrated, and free from irritation.
If you are unsure if you are experiencing dermatitis, you can check out our other scalp related blogs or contact me for a personalised diagnose and treatment plan.
