Scalp health and hair growth
Healthy hair starts at the scalp. Understanding what your scalp is doing and why helps you address the root cause rather than managing symptoms with the wrong products.
The scalp is skin, and like all skin it has its own microbiome, a community of microorganisms that contribute to its health. Disrupting this balance, through over-cleansing, harsh products, or inconsistent care, can lead to issues including dryness, sensitivity, and dandruff.
Sebum, the oil produced by your scalp's sebaceous glands, is not the enemy. It naturally conditions the hair and protects the scalp's acid mantle. Problems arise when sebum production is excessive (often triggered by over-stripping) or insufficient (common in drier scalp types).
Dandruff is primarily caused by a yeast called Malassezia, which is naturally present on all scalps. In some people, it triggers an inflammatory response that causes the characteristic flaking. Anti-dandruff actives like Zinc Pyrithione, Selenium Sulphide, and Ketoconazole work by targeting this yeast.
Scalp massage, even just a few minutes during washing, has been shown to increase blood flow to the follicles and may support hair thickness over time. It is a low-risk addition to any routine.