Tips for a sensitive scalp

The scalp, like the rest of your body, can develop sensitivity. The experience of this sensitivity may vary, but generally, it strongly influences well-being.

A sensitive scalp is very annoying. You often experience itching and irritation. Fortunately, there are hair routines you can apply to soothe your sensitive scalp. Read on to find out what might be causing your scalp pain and find out tips for sensitive scalp from our Keune hair experts.

A sensitive scalp is characterised by redness, irritation and itching. Some people also experience a burning, tight and painful feeling on the scalp. Sensitivity can be experienced in different ways. In general, it has a big impact on your daily hair routine. Wearing a ponytail or other tight hairstyles, brushing hard and washing your hair can be experienced as painful.

A sensitive scalp is one of the most common scalp problems. It can be a result of another scalp problem, such as dandruff, oily scalp or hair loss. It is important to know your personal reasons for your sensitive scalp. Hair is unique and hair care personal, which is why it feels different for each person. The following factors can cause or worsen itching or irritation:

• Hair products that are too harsh, such as sulphates, alcohol, dyes or perfume.

• Hormonal changes, for example due to menstruation or pregnancy

• Weather conditions, such as humidity or heat

• Stress

• Vitamin deficiency

• Showering too hot or blow-drying too hot

• Dry and hot areas

It is scientifically proven that there is a link between scalp health and hair quality. For healthy hair, a healthy scalp is essential. We give you tips to soothe your itchy and irritated scalp.

Use products designed to rebalance the scalp. Products for sensitive scalp heal and soothe inflamed skin. It provides mild cleansing and deep hydration. Products containing sulphates, alcohol, dyes or perfumes can be too aggressive for your scalp.

Care Derma products are specially developed for the health of your scalp. For example, we have developed Care Derma Sensitive for people with a sensitive scalp. The products are carefully formulated with allergen-free ingredients to actively combat itching, redness and irritation:

Derma Sensitive Shampoo: gently cleanses and is soothing. Derma Sensitive Conditioner: keeps your scalp and hair from drying out. Derma Sensitive Mask: nourishes and moisturises your hair. Derma Sensitive Lotion: helps relax and restore your scalp.

Don't wash your hair too often, about twice a week is the advice from hairdressers. Washing your hair not only removes dirt and residue from styling products, you also reduce oiliness of the scalp. The skin wants to rebalance sebum production, by creating a small layer of grease on your scalp. This layer of natural oils protects and moisturises your scalp. You don't want to wash this away too often. Rinse your hair with cold water after. This will stimulate blood flow to your scalp, reducing irritation.

When washing your hair, use lukewarm water. Heat dries out the scalp and this can worsen sensitivity. Also avoid excessive use of styling tools. Preferably choose low temperatures and set your hair dryer on a cool setting. Always use a heat protection spray, but do not apply it to the scalp.

Don't brush your hair too often and too hard. This will aggravate sensitivity. Take a few minutes to gently brush your hair. Use a brush made of soft material. When brushing, always start at the ends and slowly brush upwards.

In addition, don't wear your hair down too often. This will give your hair and scalp peace and space to breathe. Wearing your hair in a certain way for a while creates pressure on the hair follicles, which can cause extra sensitivity. Do you still want to wear your hair fixed? Then opt for a looser braid with a less tight elastic.

Finally, keep in mind that Keune's experts are hair specialists and not certified doctors. Should you have severe symptoms, such as redness, irritation or a severe burning sensation? Then we recommend seeing a doctor.