Scalp care: why it's important and how to create a routine

For HJ's Breast Cancer Awareness Week, sponsored by ghd, we wanted to underline the importance of taking care of your scalp, which can become an especially important matter when dealing with medical hair loss. We believe it is essential to create a scalp care routine in the same way they would create a skin care routine to protect skin from the sun's damaging rays. The hair and scalp are often overlooked when it comes to protecting skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. In fact, the scalp, even if it is covered by hair, and hair itself are both at risk of sun damage. It is time to educate your clients about treating the scalp in the same way as skin with a dedicated scalp care routine.

Why do clients need to consider a scalp care routine?

The scalp is one of the main areas where sunburn can occur. Not only is scalp sunburn painful, but it can also be incredibly dangerous. The scalp is at as much risk of developing skin cancer as anywhere else on the body. It could be argued that it is a more at-risk area because it is difficult for individuals to monitor moles and spot early signs of cancer because it is covered by hair.

What are the symptoms of scalp sunburn?

Dr Sharon Wong, consultant dermatologist and founder of Get Ahead of Hair Loss, says scalp sunburn has the same symptoms as body sunburn. However, it can go undiagnosed as it is often hidden by hair. Here is what you and your clients should be looking out for:

• Redness
• Hot to the touch
• Tenderness
• In extreme cases, small blisters

What advice should you give to a client with a burnt scalp?

Dr Sharon recommends avoiding hot water and not rubbing the scalp. She would also advise clients to use shampoos that are sulphate-free and to try and avoid using as many styling products as possible. She explains: “The less chemicals that can touch the scalp the better.” Sharon warns that temporary hair loss may occur, as the skin is peeling. She adds: “If a client has thinning hair, the scalp has less protection so wearing a hat or scarf is a must.”

What about protecting the hair?

The first signs of sun-damaged hair are frizzy and dry lengths. Sharon explains: “The scalp is often overlooked when it comes to protecting our bodies from the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, as with other parts of the body, it needs to be protected during the summer and on sunnier days.” In order for your clients to protect their hair in the heat, advise them to do the following:

• Invest in professional hair care
• Apply nourishing treatment masks at home and in the salon
• Wear hats to protect the hair and scalp from the sun

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is brought to you by ghd. Connect with ghd on social media – Facebook @ghdprofessional & Instagram @ghdhairpro and YouTube @ghd.

Click here to read the Official Schedule for HJ's Breast Cancer Awareness Week.