Ask The Expert: Keeping a clean head begins with the scalp

For people with sensitive scalps, steer clear of harsh surfactants like sulfates or DEA as they can strip the scalp of vital moisture and even cause skin irritation. Photo: Briogeo

Ask The Expert is a column where we get experts to answer questions on topics related to fashion and beauty.

Founder & CEO of Briogeo Hair Care Nancy Twine gives us the lowdown on scalp care, the type of products to use and what to avoid for sensitive scalps.

What are the key ingredients in scalp care products that consumers should look for, and why are they effective? – Lisa, KL

A good scalp care routine should mimic your skincare routine, with regular exfoliation, detoxification, and hydration.

This is to keep the scalp skin balanced and free of buildup and flakes.

Look for ingredients like binchotan charcoal to help draw out excess oil and impurities from the follicles.

There is also micro-crystalline cellulose, a dissolvable, plant-based exfoliator that gently buffs away dead skin and scalp congestion.

A micro-exfoliating shampoo features both, along with a balance of moisturising oils and soothing extracts to relieve dryness and itchiness.

For people with sensitive scalps, what should they avoid? – Adam, PJ

Sensitive scalps can be triggered by a number of factors. We recommend steering clear of harsh surfactants like sulfates or DEA as they can strip the scalp of vital moisture and even cause skin irritation.

Always do a patch test to make sure a product won’t irritate your skin before using it, especially if you know your scalp tends to be on the sensitive side.

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How do different scalp types (dry, oily, sensitive, etc) affect the choice of products? – Sharm, PJ

People with different scalp issues often have different goals for their scalp care routine, similar to how different skin products benefit different skin types.

Founder & CEO of Briogeo Hair Care Nancy Twine recommends a stimulating therapy massager to use both in and out of the shower to provide a soothing scalp massage. Photo: Briogeo

Hydrating and moisturising ingredients can benefit someone struggling with dry scalp, as they reduce the flaking and tightness often associated with dry skin. Someone with an oily scalp, on the other hand, might look for oil-balancing or oil-absorbing ingredients, similar to what you might find in a dry shampoo.

Both scalp types, however, can benefit from regular exfoliation to help balance oil production and keep the hair follicle congestion-free.

What is the recommended frequency for using a scalp scrub or exfoliant? Are there any potential risks of over-exfoliation? – Dina, Kuching

We recommend exfoliating the scalp once or twice a week with a physical scalp scrub. More than that, and you risk over-exfoliating.

Similar to skincare, over-exfoliation of the scalp skin can cause worsening flaking and irritation.

The exception to this rule is for those struggling with dandruff, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis.

You can use a dandruff relief shampoo formulated with chemical exfoliators to gently relieve the flaking, irritation, and itching associated with these conditions that is safe to use daily.

Could you explain the benefits of incorporating scalp massages into a haircare routine? Are there specific techniques or products that enhance these benefits? – Sera, KL

Scalp massages are a great way to stimulate the scalp and increase circulation.

A stimulating therapy massager is the perfect tool to use both in and out of the shower to provide a soothing scalp massage.

We recommend using small circular motions and lifting the tool frequently to avoid tangling the hair.

What are some popular scalp care treatments or routines that you would recommend? – Esther, KL

Start by swapping your regular shampoo for an exfoliating shampoo once a week.

Regular exfoliation can help with a variety of scalp issues, like flaking, itchin, and congestion.

It also sets the foundation for additional products like scalp serums and masks to work more effectively.

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How important is pH balance in scalp care products, and what steps does your brand take to ensure that your products maintain this balance? – Dorothy, KL

Just like skin, scalp has a pH range required for optimal health. Generally speaking, it should be around 5.5, so slightly acidic.

The balance of this pH can be affected by harsh shampoos, chemical treatments, and environmental aggressors.

Use products with gentle, plant-based surfactants to avoid disrupting the pH of the scalp skin and hair.

Add antioxidant-rich ingredients to protect both from environmental damage.

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