Table of Contents
- 1 This is what your hair and scalp really need
- 2 What is a Head Spa?
- 3 Life and us
- 4 How do I recognize a healthy scalp and hair?
- 5 What is really important in hair care?
- 6 Does the scalp really need shampoo to cleanse?
- 7 Does it have to be an expensive shampoo?
- 8 How important is conditioner for the ends and lengths of your hair?
- 9 Myth about hair masks: Do you have to have regular hair masks?
- 10 What to do if you have dandruff or an itchy scalp?
- 11 What else should you pay attention to?
- 12 The article mentions a holistic approach. Can you elaborate on how factors like stress, sleep, and hormonal changes can impact scalp and hair health, and what recommendations you offer patients to address these issues?
Soft music plays in the background, warm water slowly runs over the head while it is massaged with rhythmic movements. In the so-called head spa, the hair and scalp should not only experience relaxation, but also healing. But is that really necessary – or is just water enough to care for your hair and scalp?
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This is what your hair and scalp really need
What is a Head Spa?
Anyone who regularly spends time on social media has probably come across one or two videos from a so-called head spa. Originally from Asia, this trend is currently also finding its way into Germany. In some places the treatment is carried out in hairdressing salons, while in other places entire centers are being set up that specialize in this special form of scalp care.
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The treatment should go far beyond the head massage, which is often common when washing your hair when visiting the hairdresser. The scalp is analyzed, cleaned several times, sometimes steamed and massaged several times. There are also masks and leave-in products for hair lengths and ends. But is all of this necessary for healthy hair and scalp? The answer is clear: “No,” says Désirée Hölscher from Dermatologikum Hamburg. “You relax and do something good for yourself, but you should see the whole thing as a wellness session,” says the doctor.
Life and us
The guide for health, well-being and the whole family – every second Thursday.
How do I recognize a healthy scalp and hair?
But how do you even know that your hair and scalp are healthy? “A healthy scalp feels subjectively pleasant, it doesn’t itch and shows no feeling of tension,” explains Hölscher. Accordingly, on a healthy scalp there would be no inflammation, dandruff, scarred areas with thinning hair or tufts of hair. In addition, according to the dermatologist, a healthy scalp is neither too oily nor too dry and is not sensitive to touch or pain. “Healthy hair has a natural shine, feels soft, does not break and shows few or no split ends,” says Hölscher.
However, hair can change with age: “In younger years, hair is full and strong and hair loss is not excessive. As you get older, your hair usually becomes a little thinner. This is normal and should not be a cause for concern,” explains the dermatologist.
What is really important in hair care?
If the head spa is more of a wellness treatment, what does your hair and scalp really need? “Good hair care, a healthy lifestyle and avoiding harmful influences,” explains Hölscher. In addition, the hair should not be washed too often – about two to three times a week – and should not be blow-dried too hot. According to the dermatologist, frequent dyeing, bleaching or chemical straightening are also harmful to hair and scalp. What is often forgotten is that the sun can also cause damage to the hair and scalp. “From spring onwards, your head and hair should be protected from UV rays,” advises Hölscher. The dermatologist also recommends gentle shampoos and conditioners.
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Does the scalp really need shampoo to cleanse?
There is a lot of supposed wisdom on the topic of scalp and hair on social media – some even claim that water is enough to clean it. But what’s the point? “The scalp and hair should be cleaned of dirt, sweat and sebum two to three times a week,” says Hölscher. This can usually be achieved with a mild shampoo. “Water alone cannot or only insufficiently remove this deposit. Inadequate cleaning of the scalp can lead to itching and dandruff, which may then affect hair growth,” warns the dermatologist.
Does it have to be an expensive shampoo?
The cosmetics industry is booming worldwide. The turnover of so-called beauty care is in Germany alone more than 15.8 billion eurossays the Personal Care and Detergent Industry Association (IKW). This also includes hair products. But: “The price does not determine whether a shampoo is of good quality,” explains Hölscher. Mild ingredients, little or no fragrances and preservatives are more important, but nourishing ingredients (such as aloe vera, panthenol and natural oils) should be included. “It is important that the shampoo suits my hair type (dry, stressed or greasy, editor’s note)“Scalp dandruff can be gently removed with special anti-dandruff shampoos that contain zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole,” says Hölscher.
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How important is conditioner for the ends and lengths of your hair?
Washing your hair without conditioner is unthinkable for many people today. But what does the product actually do? “Conditioners help to moisturize the ends of the hair and prevent dryness,” explains Hölscher. Conditioners form a protective layer around the hair and prevent mechanical damage that can occur from brushing or blow-drying. And: The hair becomes smoother and easier to comb. “I recommend using conditioner in the lengths and ends of the hair, where the hair is most stressed,” advises the dermatologist.
Myth about hair masks: Do you have to have regular hair masks?
If you’re looking for hair products at the drugstore, you can’t ignore masks and the like. But how important are these actually? “There is no requirement for the regular use of hair masks,” says Hölscher. According to the doctor, hair masks have a higher concentration of nourishing ingredients than conditioners, penetrate deeper into the hair and can repair damage caused by chemical treatments or UV damage. “I recommend using a hair mask every one to two weeks,” says Hölscher.
What to do if you have dandruff or an itchy scalp?
Many people struggle with itchy scalp or dandruff. There are many reasons for this – the reason does not always have to be pathological. But: “It could be, among other things, eczema, a fungal infection or psoriasis,” explains dermatologist Hölscher. According to the expert, you should therefore see a dermatologist as soon as possible if common anti-dandruff shampoos or mild moisturizing shampoos do not help – depending on the findings, cortisone or anti-fungal treatments could then be initiated.
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What else should you pay attention to?
Our body is increasingly being viewed holistically – and this also applies to hair and scalp. The right shampoo alone is not enough to have a healthy scalp. Hölscher recommends paying attention to a healthy diet, if necessary “with supplementation of hair growth-promoting additives such as biotin and zinc”. “As diets become increasingly low in meat, we often see reduced iron levels, which can lead to hair loss. Iron deficiency conditions should be recognized and compensated for,” says the dermatologist.
If you have hair loss and persistent scalp symptoms, you should also see a dermatologist to clarify the causes. The problem: “Months to years are often lost without treatment. The earlier a diagnosis is made and therapy initiated, the better the prospect of identifying and stopping hair loss or other problems,” says Hölscher.
The article mentions a holistic approach. Can you elaborate on how factors like stress, sleep, and hormonal changes can impact scalp and hair health, and what recommendations you offer patients to address these issues?
## Open-Ended Questions for Dermatologist Interview:
Here are some open-ended questions focusing on the key topics covered in the article, designed to encourage discussion and diverse viewpoints:
**Section 1: Defining a Healthy Scalp and Hair**
* The article describes characteristics of a healthy scalp. In your experience, how often do people misunderstand what constitutes a healthy scalp? What are some common misconceptions?
* How can factors beyond hair care practices, like diet and lifestyle, influence scalp and hair health?
* How does our understanding of a “healthy” scalp evolve as we age?
**Section 2: Essential Hair Care Practices**
* The article mentions that frequent dyeing, bleaching, and chemical straightening can be damaging. How can individuals minimize damage while still achieving desired styles?
* What are some effective strategies for protecting hair from sun damage beyond wearing a hat? Can UV protection products designed for hair be beneficial?
* Beyond shampoos and conditioners, what other products or practices can contribute to overall scalp and hair health?
**Section 3: Debunking Myths and Misconceptions**
* The article states that shampoo is necessary for scalp cleansing. What are some common misconceptions about scalp cleansing that you encounter in your practice?
* There’s a growing trend of using natural or DIY hair care products. What are your thoughts on their effectiveness and safety compared to commercially available products?
* The article mentions hair masks are not essential but can be beneficial. How can individuals determine if they would benefit from using hair masks, and how frequently should they be used?
**Section 4: Addressing Common Concerns: Dandruff and Itchiness**
* What are some of the most common underlying causes of dandruff and itchy scalp that you see in your patients?
* How can individuals determine if their dandruff or scalp itchiness warrants professional attention, and what steps should they take?
* What are some alternative or complementary treatments for dandruff and itchy scalp beyond traditional medicated shampoos?
**Section 5: Holistic Approach to Hair and Scalp Health**
* The article emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to hair and scalp health. What are some lifestyle factors you frequently advise your patients to address for optimal hair health?
* How can individuals best approach identifying and addressing potential nutrient deficiencies that may contribute to hair loss or scalp problems?
* What advice would you give to someone experiencing persistent hair loss or scalp issues despite trying self-care measures?
**Remember:**
These are just examples, you can adapt them to focus on specific areas or tailor them to your interview goals. Encourage the dermatologist to share their expertise, providing specific anecdotes and advice for laypeople.
