The main factors that affect hair and scalp health in today’s world

Welcome to my column! I’m thrilled and grateful for the chance to share my knowledge and thoughts about scalp health.

In today’s busy world, more and more clients are coming into the salon with scalp challenges. My mission is to help stylists support their clients through these issues and to make scalp care not just a trend, but a professional salon trait.

With 1 in 3 clients experiencing some kind of hair or scalp challenge, this has become a major area of focus in our industry. As a registered trichologist with 25 years of experience in the hair industry, I’m dedicated to helping salons approach this in the most responsible and professional way.

For this article, I want to focus on some of the main factors that affect hair and scalp health in today’s world:

Nutrition – Beauty Begins Within

What we put into our bodies shows up in our hair and skin. Well-balanced, nutritious diets are essential for hair and scalp health. Gut health is essential for hair health. While nutrients are best absorbed from food, many people turn to supplements unnecessarily, which can actually hinder health if they’re not addressing specific deficiencies. I always recommend that clients get appropriate tests to identify their unique needs. Truly, beauty begins within.

Genetics

Our genetics shape our hair type, scalp sensitivity, and susceptibility to certain conditions. While we can’t change our DNA, understanding family history helps us manage and care for our unique needs more effectively.

HORMONES

Hormonal changes throughout life—puberty, pregnancy, and menopause—can dramatically impact scalp health. Common effects include hair thinning and shifts in scalp oiliness. Recognising these changes can help guide clients in managing their hair during each stage, and in knowing when to refer them to other specialists for support.

ENVIRONMENT

Daily exposure to pollution, sunlight, and even hard water can stress the scalp. Surprisingly, our mobile phones also add to environmental exposure. Pollution, in particular, can clog follicles and leave the scalp feeling sensitive. Incorporating protective products and routines can go a long way in supporting scalp health.

STRESS

Stress has an undeniable impact on hair and scalp health. High stress levels can lead to hair shedding and aggravate complex scalp conditions. Simple stress management practices can make a positive difference. Stress can also affect our daily habits—are we eating and sleeping as we normally would when feeling stressed?

PRODUCTS

Many clients unknowingly use products with harsh ingredients like sulphates and synthetic fragrances, which can irritate the scalp. Educating clients on professional, scalp-friendly products tailored to their needs can lead to significant improvements. If you’d like more information about specific ingredients, feel free to reach out—or I can write another column on this topic!

SLEEP

Quality sleep allows the body to repair and regenerate, including the scalp. Without proper rest, hair growth cycles can be disrupted, leading to dullness and dryness. Sleep truly is a beauty essential.

HYDRATION

Hydration isn’t just for skin—it’s vital for the scalp too. Dehydration can lead to dryness and itchiness, so drinking plenty of water, especially in dry seasons, supports a well-balanced scalp.

Making Scalp Care a Salon Trait

As salon professionals, we have a unique opportunity to make scalp care a core part of what we offer. By educating clients on these factors, we can support their journey to a healthier scalp and more beautiful hair, transforming scalp care from a trend into a professional salon trait.

Book a Scalp Health Assessment

If you are interested in assessing your hair and scalp health, I recommend booking a scalp scan. This service includes a professional score analysis and a personalised six-week hair and scalp care cycle, with recommendations tailored specifically for you. This cycle is designed to bring your scalp into optimal health with ongoing, guided support.

10% discount on my products

Visit www.salonlove.shop and select Karley collection. 

Use the discount code KT10 at checkout.

 For more information on scalp health or to book an assessment, visit my website at www.ktrichology.co.uk.

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