Scorching sun, hot and humid weather; result oily scalp the bad hair days are here again. If you are prone to greasy scalp during summer, then it’s not the best time to play with your cut and the color your hair texture and scalp will play up for the worse. But you definitely don’t want your gorgeous tresses to look limp, and oily, be down on the glam quotient. You want them to be squeaky clean and swishing. You don’t need to compromise anymore; simply follow a good hair care regime and enjoy bouncier, sexier tresses throughout the season.
Identify the cause: Since the scalp is an extension of the skin, so in most cases, if the skin is oily, the scalp is also oily. Some of the reasons of over activity of the oil glands are hereditary factors, increased hormonal activity (during puberty), hormonal imbalances, certain medication, stress and diet.
Rinse it well: "A shampoo routine should be observed every alternate day to keep the scalp clean and if your job requires you to be in the sun or out most of the time then shampoo your hair daily," advises Najeeb Ur Rahman, Technical Head, Schwarzkopf Professional. Always choose the shampoo according to your scalp type, “The use of suitable rinse after shampoo helps to reduce oiliness and gives nice sheen to the hair”, suggest beauty veteran Shahnaz Husain.
Condition them moderately: Avoid heavy or oil based conditioners. The conditioner is strictly for hair and hair ends and is not to be massaged on to the scalp. In such condition you run the risk of having greasy hair. You can also try henna on your scalp and hair to soak up extra oil, and add volume. To smoothen frizz try a lightweight serum as well.
The oil dilemma: Do not oil your hair frequently in summers; instead go for a oil massage once a fortnight. However, if there is dandruff and the pores of the scalp are clogged with dandruff flakes and hardened oil, one should heat pure olive oil and apply on scalp once a week at night. Leave on overnight and wash hair the next day with a clearing shampoo.
Eat right: Include lots of fresh fruits, raw salads, sprouts, leafy vegetables and water in your daily diet. Avoid fire foods, spices, pickles, canned meats, rich gravies, and too many sweets. “Add the juice of lemon to a glass of water and have it first thing in the morning. It flushes out toxins effectively,” suggests Husain.
