Hair care routines often begin and end with the strands we see in the mirror. Is it shiny? Strong? Is it growing well? In this era of social media, there’s more pressure on getting our locks to look their very best than ever before. But with such a hair-focused approach, the foundation from which it grows is often neglected. Or, ignored entirely! If you’re seeing increased shedding, a lack of volume, or a change in texture, then the answer may not lie in your hair, but in your scalp. Scalp analysis is a smart way of taking a look under the bonnet to see what’s happening in the engine. And it doesn’t have to be complicated or clinical. Here’s the lowdown.
What Is Scalp Analysis?
Scalp analysis is simply a close look at the physical state of the skin under our hair. The key questions:
- Is your scalp in the best shape to support optimum hair health and growth?
- Or is something happening that is interfering with that process?
Of course, the gold standard of any scalp analysis is with a trichologist, but professional help (or special equipment) isn't needed to get a reasonable picture of the shape your scalp is in. Taking a little time for a simple visual inspection and thinking about how your scalp feels can tell you more than you might think! Flaky? Tender? Do you notice excessive oiliness or tightness? These observations form the basis of a basic scalp analysis.
Scalp Health Matters
We all spend a lot of time (and money) on the skin on our faces. As a starting point, we need to see our scalps as an extension of our faces, but with hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands to contend with! Hair follicles grow from the scalp, drawing vital hair vitamins, nutrients, and oxygen from blood vessels beneath the surface. The bottom line? When your scalp is healthy, these follicles have the best possible environment to produce strong, resilient hair.
And when there’s a problem with scalp health, hair health, growth and retention are negatively impacted. This is why people experiencing hair issues often benefit from addressing scalp health. It's not vanity; it's biology.
Scalp Analysis: What To Look For
Build-Up
Dead skin cells, excess oil and the dreaded product residue are the usual suspects. Left alone, clogged follicles and scalp irritation result. If your scalp feels waxy, looks dull, or your hair feels heavy even after washing, build-up may be the problem.
Dry Scalp
When scalps lack moisture, tightness, itchiness, and flakiness can be experienced. The harsh ingredients found in some shampoos, dry shampoos and other hair products are often the culprit, but environmental factors such as weather, air conditioning and central heating can be the cause too.
Inflammation and Sensitivity
An inflamed scalp may feel tender, appear red or itch persistently. This can be triggered by product sensitivities, environmental stressors or an imbalanced scalp microbiome. Ongoing inflammation can disrupt optimal hair growth, so ignore these warning signs at your peril.
How To Perform A Scalp Analysis At Home
A basic scalp analysis is quick and straightforward – and worth doing monthly. Here’s the how:
- Visual: Part your hair in a few places and take a look at the scalp. Does the skin look calm and even in tone? Or, do you see telltale signs of problems? Look for redness, flaking, excess oil or inflammation.
- Touch: Run your fingertips gently and carefully across the scalp. Smooth and supple, or tight, tender, oily or dry?
- Sensations: How does your scalp feel throughout the day? Itchy? Uncomfortable or unbalanced? Does it change?
- Hair: Are you noticing more shedding than usual? Is your hair growing at a normal pace? Does it feel strong or fragile? Does it look glossy and healthy? Or flat and dull?
These observations will give you a clear understanding of where your scalp is, health-wise. If there are problems, then it’s time to start thinking of solutions. And if changes are happening – more itching, flaking or discomfort – then it’s worth investigating if anything has shifted in your routine or environment.
Building a Scalp-Focused Routine
Like scalp analysis, a healthy scalp care routine doesn’t need to be complicated. Choosing the right topical and supplement products will help achieve and maintain a comfortable scalp environment.
A gentle yet effective wash routine is essential. Formulated to deeply cleanse, hydrate and nourish the hair and scalp, using Hair Gain’s Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner range will transform your wash days.
For daily scalp support, apply Hair Gain Scalp Foam. The weightless formula helps soothe and revitalise the scalp. It’s designed to support scalp health at the source — where healthy hair begins.
Add a weekly Hair Gain Hair Mask into your routine and give scalp and hair an intense helping of hydration and nourishment. To further enhance your routine, using our Scalp Massager is perfect to use with our scalp foam and hair mask, distributing effectively while gently stimulating circulation.
On non-wash days, the Peptide Puff™ Dry Shampoo refreshes roots and absorbs excess oil while caring for your hair and scalp, helping extend time between washes without heaviness.
Supporting your scalp externally works best when paired with internal nutrition. Hair Gain Hair Capsules and Hair Gummies, powered by the unique AnaGain™ ingredient and a blend of key hair vitamins and nutrients, support hair growth and maintain healthy hair from within. Together, this inside-out approach creates the perfect routine that supports both scalp health and long-term hair vitality.
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