Frequent hair greasiness is one of the most common problems that almost every second woman faces. Did you know that with proper hair care it is possible to reduce hair greasiness and the frequency of hair washing? Let's look at what actually promotes scalp greasiness and how this process can be balanced.
Why do hair get greasy?
Let's start with the fact that hair does not get greasy, the scalp gets greasy. One of the factors that promotes scalp greasiness is too hot water that we use for hair washing. It not only dries out the skin, but also activates the sebaceous glands, causing them to secrete more sebum, as a result of which the scalp tries to protect itself by forming a protective barrier, and the hair becomes greasy faster.
The second important aspect is the shampoo composition. If the shampoo contains aggressive surfactants, they negatively affect the condition of the scalp and hair, while the body reacts to them with a counter-reaction - increased sebaceous gland activity to form a protective layer of the skin.
Another important aspect that promotes scalp greasiness is improper use of hair care products. For example, did you know that hair should be washed not once, but twice? Or that hair balm and mask are intended for use in the length of the hair, not for application to the scalp?
How to wash your hair properly?
Proper washing is simple, but in order for it to be effective, some basic rules must be followed:
1) Choose warm water for washing your hair - it cleans effectively but does not irritate the scalp. In turn, cooler or lukewarm water will be more suitable for rinsing your hair, which is gentler on both the scalp and the hair.
2) For everyday use, choose shampoos with a gentle and balanced composition, such as ONE:ZERO gently cleansing natural shampoo without sulfates and parabens. Even if natural shampoos do not foam as effectively as we see in commercials, they still perform the cleansing function perfectly without harming the natural balance of the skin. If you have used an SLS or SLES-containing shampoo so far, but want to switch to a more natural shampoo with gentler surfactants, it is recommended to use ONE:ZERO Cosmetics Deep Cleansing Shampoo during the transition period, which gently but effectively cleanses the scalp. During the transition period, it is advisable to use at least one bottle of Deep Cleansing Shampoo so that the hair and scalp gradually adapt to using gentler hair care products.
3) Another important step that is talked about too little is scalp peeling. Scalp scrub should be done once a week or once every two weeks depending on the condition of the scalp to cleanse the scalp from dirt, accumulated sebum, dead cells and residues of hair styling products. The cleaner the scalp is, the longer the hair will retain a fresh appearance.
When choosing a shampoo, the main criterion is not the length or color of your hair, but rather your scalp type. If your scalp is oily, sensitive or dry, choose a shampoo according to your scalp type.
Lifestyle affects more than you think
However, hair washing is not the only factor that affects your scalp condition - our daily habits also affect it very much.
A full and balanced diet and sufficient intake of water - are the basis for how we feel and look, so if you want to improve your hair and skin condition, first analyze your eating habits. Can you provide your body with all the nutrients, minerals and vitamins it needs with your daily diet? Do you drink at least 1.5 liters of clean water a day? Start with the basics and you will see how your hair and skin condition will improve.
Stress and elevated cortisol levels can promote increased sebaceous gland activity, so in periods when you are emotionally stressed or exhausted, your hair may get greasy faster than usual. The quality of sleep also plays an important role, because sleep inhibits skin regeneration processes. It is during nighttime that skin balance is regulated, and if the body cannot regenerate enough, it will directly affect your scalp condition as well.
Touch matters
In everyday life we often do not even notice how often we touch our hair. However, each touch of the hair transfers fats and dirt from our hands to our hair, accelerating their greasiness.
The hygiene of the comb is no less important. It accumulates both dust and fats and product residues. If the comb is not washed regularly, you comb these dirt back into clean hair again and again. Read more about how to properly care for your comb here.
Silicones
Another factor that can affect hair freshness are silicones in hair care products. Ingredients such as Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane and Trimethylsiloxysilicate can form an invisible film on the head. Although at first the hair seems smooth and shiny, but in the long run this film can make it difficult for the scalp to breathe and promote faster greasiness.
Healthy hair starts with your scalp
Hair care should be gentle, gentle and balanced, so by choosing suitable hair care products for yourself and following proper washing habits, you can gradually extend the time between washes and keep your hair fresh and clean for longer.