I’ve never spoken about this before so what better way to break the ice than dedicate an entire blog post to it, right? I’m a huge fan of hair colour, as you all may have gathered, but the biggest concern when it comes to my ‘crowning glory’ isn’t finding the best colour-saving shampoo, conditioner or masque… it’s actually, my sensitive scalp.
There are so many factors that trigger or enhance scalp sensitivity; namely chemicals from hair products, food allergies, stress of any kind (this can be physical or emotional – which we all experience daily), sun exposure, intense cold, wind (damn that Cape Town South Easter) and hormonal changes that occur during your menstrual cycle.
Personally, my scalp feels particularly sensitive when I’m stressed and its usually accompanied by a cold sore on my lip. Hideous, but true. It’s tough when my hair is darker, as the flakes, although subtle, are visible and naturally, this makes me self-conscious. I’ve tried all the well-known ‘anti-dandruff’ shampoos on the market and to be quite honest, found that they made my scalp even worse.
Whilst browsing through one of the aisles in Clicks, I stumbled across the Eucerin Dermo Capillaire Calming Urea Shampoo, R110.95, gave it a bash and haven’t looked back since. It’s my go-to shampoo for when my scalp starts to itch and after just one wash, I already feel a change. This wonder-worker soothes the discomfort, thoroughly cleanses the scalp and leaves it flake free. It’s suitable for children too, over 3 years old.
Some Helpful Do’s & Don’ts (That I’ve Picked Up Over The Years)
DO: …wear a cap when you’re outdoors. It really makes the world of difference when protecting your scalp.
DO: …lightly apply sunscreen to the exposed areas of your scalp if you’re on the beach, etc. Sunburn + sensitive scalps = nightmare.
DO: …get an allergy test. Who knows, you could be consuming something that triggers your scalp sensitivity. Rather nip it in the bud!
DON’T: …scratch. I know it’s tempting, but it’ll make it worse. Rather wash your hair with the shampoo I just recommended.
DO: …eliminate hair products that aren’t working for you.
DON’T: …wash your hair more than twice a week if you have a sensitive scalp. I find that it just makes it worse.
Click here to purchase.