Talking about hair loss and scalp issues is no longer taboo. More women and men are experiencing these concerns and openly discussing them with both professionals and peers.

Luckily, a wide range of treatments and practices are now available, from in-salon organic, vegan and naturally derived services to at-home care routines. Modern approaches are no longer medicinal or unpleasant. Results are achieved through a combination of proper product use and spa-like practices, including aromatherapy.

Healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp. Hair loss can affect both women and men for a variety of reasons including stress, medication, hormonal changes, significant weight loss, thyroid issues and genetics. Plus, imbalances of the scalp such as dryness, flaking, excessive oil, itching and redness can be a result of using improper products, environmental elements, overactive oil glands, skin allergies, dietary factors, changes in hormonal levels and other factors.  

Ideally, hair should be treated as its own entity, with specific products prescribed to meet individual needs and maintain shine, strength and vibrancy. It’s important to research and find a salon or spa that offers natural, paraben- and chemical-free treatments made with certified organic ingredients. These practices can significantly improve both scalp and hair health.

Essential Scalp Care Practices

We often find ourselves rushing in the morning to get where we want to be. But not taking the time needed to properly cleanse and rinse the hair and scalp can cause several issues down the line.  Here are some important tips to keep in mind.

•            Always aim for water temperature that is tepid to warm. Hot water can cause irritation and dryness to our scalp, hair and skin. 

• Apply the recommended shampoo to one’s entire scalp and manipulate thoroughly. There are scalp brushes/massagers available that help with loosening and exfoliating dead skin and cells away from the scalp. 

• Rinse thoroughly with tepid to warm water. Separate hair so the water flow is concentrated right on the scalp. 

• For excessive dry and oily scalps, a second shampoo is needed. 

• Follow with a conditioner that treats the scalp. Apply to the entire scalp and follow with a thorough rinse. 

• Additionally, seek out scalp leave-in remedies. These can be used daily to maintain one’s scalp health. 

These practices are extremely important for addressing hair loss, as healthy hair begins with a clean, well-nourished scalp. There are also effective, naturally derived systems to treat hair loss. Topical products exist that can be applied thoroughly and massaged into the scalp. Hair loss products are created to nourish the hair follicle by generating blood circulation to the scalp. 

Early intervention is crucial for managing follicle miniaturization. While dead follicles cannot be revived, dormant or shrinking follicles can often be stimulated. Maintaining a healthy scalp is fundamental to supporting strong, vibrant hair growth.

Doreen Ise is the owner of Birch Salon & Gallery, in Warwick, Rhode Island, where she blends her lifelong passion for hair artistry with Aveda’s Earth-friendly philosophy to offer guests a uniquely uplifting, holistic salon experience. Location: 2067 W. Shore Rd. For more information or to schedule a hair and scalp consultation, call 401-642-7028, email [email protected] or visit BirchSalonGallery.com.