12 questions you have about the scalp care trend, explained.

Chances are by now you've probably sorted your hair care routine, because let's face it, having great hair truly is EVERYTHING.

But when it comes to scalp care, we bet it's a totally different story.

Neglect often creeps into places where our eyes can't reach, which is why many of us ignore the parts of our bodies that typically stays hidden from view. And for too long our scalp's louder sister, hair, has overshadowed leading to a lifetime of oversight. 

But, according to the professionals, looking after your scalp is the key to fabulous locks.

Every hair care-related expert, such as dermatologists, trichologists and hairdressers have weighed in to provide their own tips and tricks aimed at tackling the spectrum of issues happening up top.

If you're like us, you've probably found yourself endlessly scrolling social media for the answers you seek. As it currently sits the hashtag #Scalp alone has over 1.6 billion views on TikTok, indicating this beauty trend is here to stay.

Similar to the intrigue of watching pimple-popping videos, it's difficult to avert your eyes from the weird and sometimes unflattering scalp displays. We know this kind of research can often become overwhelming, but remember, adding scalp care to your routine shouldn't be any more complicated than your usual hair care groove and after all, healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp.

So, to help with the enormous amount of information, we've answered the questions you want to know and got down to the basics, so you can begin your journey to thicker, healthier looking hair.

Is scalp care important?

Yes, scalp care is crucial for maintaining healthy hair. A well-nourished scalp promotes hair growth, prevents dandruff, and reduces the risk of various scalp conditions. 

Many dermatologists advocate focusing first on the scalp before investing in the hair itself, this is so you can get to the root of what's going on up there.

@samantha_angelie The key to #healthyhair is #scalphealth. Regardless of your hair type + texture your scalp needs: 1. To be clean 2. UV protection 3. Exfoliated and stimulated 4. Anti-aging ingredients 5. Antioxidants The good news is you can get #’s 2-4 in your shampoo and scalp scrubs 🫶🏼 which means this is super easy to achieve! #healyourhairwithme #shinyhair #wavyhair #healthyhair #hairtips #hairtransformation #hairoil ♬ original sound - Samantha Angelie

What is the link between dandruff and the scalp microbiome?

The scalp, just like the skin, has a microbiome, which consists of various beneficial microorganisms. Issues such as dandruff are linked to an imbalance in this microbiome, with an increase in dandruff-causing microorganisms.

Image: Supplied. 

How do I help an itchy scalp?

Scalp cleanses are the first step to aiding an itchy scalp, a deep clean that lifts buildup and allows your skin to absorb the product is essential to the overall health of your scalp. Try using a glycolic or salicylic acid to remove excess buildup before washing your hair as normal. 

DERCOS Anti-Dandruff DS Shampoos are also formulated with 1 per cent salicylic acid which helps to exfoliate flakes and build-up on the scalp. For a deeper exfoliation, try DERCOS Anti-Dandruff K Deep Purifying Shampoo which has a higher concentration of 1.3 per cent salicylic acid.

@annaytime Easy & affordable way to deep clean your scalp #scalpcare #theordinary #glycolicacid #dandruff #dandruffsolution #oilytok #oilyhair #oilyhairhacks #hairtok #scalpcleanse #scalphealth #skincare101 #hairtips #hairtipsandtricks ♬ Cool for summer x Pony - Kuya Magik

What are the benefits of a scalp massage?

Scalp massages increase blood circulation to the hair follicles, stimulating more nutrients for the hair, which is key for promoting hair growth. Not to mention it can seriously relieve tension and help relax the scalp muscles. 

A simple shower massage can help reduce stress, improve overall hair health and it makes you feel fantastic.

@drcharlesmd1 #stitch with @brookeee.nicoleee Fight dandruff with Dercos Anti-Dandruff DS Shampoo! Flake free after 1st use! #dandruff #MEvsDANDRUFF #dercospartner #dercos #vichylaboratoires @vichylaboratoires #hair #hairstyle #hairloss ♬ original sound - 💉 Dr Charles MD 💉

What is the skinification of the scalp?

The 'skinification' of our scalp refers to the popular beauty movement of approaching scalp care with the same quality of ingredients and attention as you would your facial skin. This involves using gentle products, exfoliating occasionally, and ensuring proper hydration and nourishment for a healthy scalp environment.

@beamaxinemd Masaya yan??? Is scalpcare the new skincare 😂 what we learned today @dove #DoveCareLabs 💓 #fyp #dermaph #justforfun #skintellectual #DovePh #skinification #scalpcare #haircare #dermatips #haircaretips #ceramides #salicylicacid #niacinamide #glycerin ♬ Feather - Sped Up - Sabrina Carpenter

Can caffeine help your hair grow?

There is some evidence to suggest that topical application of caffeine may promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles and increasing blood circulation to the scalp. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness.

The hair-boosting potential of caffeine found in coffee isn't to be underestimated, it can kick start hair growth and put a halt to hair loss by stimulating the hair follicles and increasing blood circulation to the scalp.  

@prisciladerosa Coffe shampoo ✅ #coffeshampo #coffeetiktok #5minutecrafts ♬ Made You Look - Meghan Trainor

Should I wash my hair upside down?

Washing your hair upside down isn't necessary for everyone, but it can help create more volume for those with fine or flat hair. It can also be a great way to deeply cleanse areas of the scalp, however, be careful of the dreaded tangle which can often stress the hair out. 

@curlyzia.xo Is this me getting old or was my hair just reallly tangled today 😭😭 #washingmyhair #hairwashdays ♬ Oh No - Kreepa

Is rosemary oil good for my hair?

Rosemary oil for hair is all the rage right now and currently has a whopping 205 million casual searches on TikTok. 

Why? Well, rosemary oil is known to improve circulation to the scalp, which promotes hair growth and reduces hair loss. 

However, individual results may vary, so speak to a dermatologist before trying and make sure to dilute essential oils properly before use.

@jadesiian Its my favourite day of the week HAIR OIL DAY 🧖🏽‍♀️✨ save this for your next hair wash day if you want long healthy hair👏🏼 #hairoil #rosemaryoil #hairwashday #rosemaryoiltutorial #rosemaryoiltips #hairgrowth #hairgrowthtips ♬ original sound - 🐐

What is a trichologist?

These experts are in the business of helping individuals dealing with concerns like hair loss, hair breakage, greasy scalps, and scalp psoriasis. Certain trichologists are even equipped to tackle challenges stemming from conditions like alopecia and trichotillomania, along with complex hair-pulling disorders.

@kateholdenclinic What is a trichologist? #trichologist #trichology #trichologyeducation #haircare #hairloss ♬ GYPSY (TROPICAL REMIX) FEAT. JESS WEIMER - Jess Weimer

What is a scalp check?

A scalp check is when a professional checks the overall health of your hair, starting with your scalp. This helps figure out if your scalp is throwing a party for a thriving hair growth cycle or if it's in need of some help.

@wendyskin Replying to @matei.04 proving to y’all that my hair isn’t damaged #vegamour #scalpanalysis ♬ original sound - wendy ly

How often should I do a scalp check? 

It's recommended to do a scalp check once a month. This allows you to monitor the health of your scalp, identify any changes, and address issues promptly. 

@gracebergquist Yuhhhh #scalp #scalpcheck ♬ IMA NEED MY SKATES geetheharajuku - Gee

Tried one of these scalp hacks before? Let us know in the comments below.

Shop DERCOS' range of anti-dandruff shampoos that removes up to 100 per cent visible dandruff after a single use. 

*Brand recommended by 50,000 dermatologists refers to Vichy brand. Survey conducted among the dermocosmetic market carried out by AplusA and other partners between January 2022 and May 2022, involving dermatologists in 32 countries, representing more than 80 per cent of the worldwide GDP.

*This product eliminates up to 100 per cent of visible dandruff from the first use according to consumer test on 262 subjects after 2 weeks of regular use.

*This product provides up to six weeks of anti-relapse protection according to cosmeto-clinical study on 45 subjects after 4 weeks of use and 6 weeks of remanence.

*It uses selenium disulphide technology, which restores rebalances the scalp's microbiome balance within in just four weeks according to a cosmeto-clinical study with follow up of the main microorganisms involved in dandruff, 56 subjects with 3 applications a week for 4 weeks.

Feature Image: Supplied.