Eva Proudman, President of the Institute of Trichologists (UK), states that dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, thinning hair, or hair loss can all be linked to an imbalanced microbiome. The human scalp has approximately 280,000 oil glands, making it susceptible to pollution, styling products, high temperatures, stress, and diet.

Experts recommend following five rules to maintain a healthy scalp microbiome:

Wash hair correctly, not too frequently

Washing hair too often can strip the scalp of its natural protective oils, while washing too infrequently allows excess oil and product buildup, creating an environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive.

Most experts recommend washing hair approximately once every two days, while choosing a gentle shampoo suitable for your scalp condition. Styling products should also be used sparingly near the hair roots.

Brush hair and massage scalp daily

Brushing hair helps distribute natural oils from root to tip, removes dirt, and stimulates blood circulation to nourish hair follicles.

Massaging the scalp for a few minutes daily or while shampooing boosts blood circulation and reduces stress, a factor that can worsen scalp issues.

Illustrative photo: *Allure*.

Nourish the microbiome from within

Gut health and scalp health are closely linked. A diet rich in green vegetables, whole grains, fiber, and healthy fats helps nourish a beneficial microbiome.

Conversely, prolonged stress, lack of sleep, excessive alcohol consumption, or deficiencies in protein and iron can increase the risk of scalp flaking, making hair weaker and more prone to shedding.

Limit heat and protect the scalp

Hair dryers, curling irons, or straighteners used at high temperatures can dry out the scalp, disrupt the microbiome's balance, and damage hair strands.

Experts advise reducing the frequency of heat styling, prioritizing low-heat settings, and protecting the scalp from sunlight with hats or by using dedicated scalp sunscreen when outdoors for extended periods.

Prioritize gentle hair care products

A healthy scalp has a pH of approximately 4,5-5,5. Therefore, users should choose products with gentle formulas, limiting irritating ingredients like sulfates or parabens if they have a sensitive scalp.

Regular exfoliation, combined with scalp masks or serums, also helps reduce product buildup, creating a favorable environment for the microbiome to thrive.

Nhat Minh (According to *Telegraph*)