The #1 Secret to a Healthy Scalp
In our daily lives, we often hear about the microbiome, especially in relation to our gut. But did you know that our skin, and more specifically our scalp, also houses its own microbiome? These invisible microorganisms play an essential role in the health of our skin and hair. So, what is the microbiome? And how can the scalp microbiome influence hair health?
What is the microbiome?
The microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms, such as bacteria, yeast, fungi, and viruses, that live in symbiosis with our bodies. These microorganisms are found primarily in our gut, but also on our skin, mouth, and, of course, our scalp. The microbiome plays a crucial role in our health by contributing to processes such as digestion, immune system regulation, and protection against potential pathogens. It is often compared to a living ecosystem, a delicate balance between beneficial and harmful microorganisms.
The scalp microbiome: a unique ecosystem
The scalp microbiome is an extension of this concept. It's a complex environment where a multitude of bacteria, yeasts, and other microorganisms coexist. Like the rest of our skin, this microbiome has a direct impact on the health of our scalp and, by extension, the health of our hair.
The scalp microbiome, when balanced, protects against infections, regulates sebum production, and helps maintain a healthy scalp. However, when it's unbalanced (due to factors like poor hygiene, stress, harsh products, or hormonal imbalances), it can lead to problems like itching, dandruff, irritation, or even hair loss. Thus, maintain the balance of the scalp microbiome is the #1 secret to ensuring a healthy scalp.
How to take care of your scalp microbiome?
To maintain a healthy scalp microbiome, it's important to adopt a hair care routine that promotes balance in this ecosystem while preventing the proliferation of harmful microorganisms. Here are some tips:
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Use gentle and suitable products : Avoid harsh shampoos, sulfates, and other harsh ingredients that can disrupt the microbiome balance. Instead, opt for pH 5 shampoos, with gentle and natural ingredients.
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Target the scalp : the scalp, like the skin, needs specific care. Use pre-shampoo masks to serums adapted to the problem helps maintain the balance of the microbial flora.
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Protect against external aggressions Environmental factors, such as pollution, sun, or humidity, can affect the microbiome. Protecting your hair and scalp from these stressors is essential for maintaining good hair health, such as by wearing a hat or using UV protection.
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Opt for prebiotics and probiotics : These products can strengthen and restore a healthy microbiome. Prebiotics feed good bacteria, while probiotics bring new strains of beneficial microorganisms.
The difference between probiotics and prebiotics
Although often used together, the terms probiotics et prebiotics designate two very different, but complementary, types of assets:
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Probiotics are live microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, that have health benefits when applied to the skin or ingested. For the scalp, probiotics help restore microbiome balance by introducing "good" bacteria that support scalp health. For example, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are probiotics frequently used in skin care.
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Prebiotics, on the other hand, are substances that nourish and stimulate the growth of existing good bacteria. These are indigestible fibers and sugars found in many foods and cosmetic ingredients. They are not living microorganisms, but they play a crucial role in promoting an environment conducive to the proliferation of good bacteria. In scalp care, prebiotics like inulin help maintain a balanced microbiome and strengthen the scalp's natural defenses.
Conclusion
The scalp microbiome is a key component of hair health, influencing not only the appearance of your scalp, but also that of your hair. To care for it, it's essential to adopt a proper care routine, favoring gentle, targeted products containing prebiotics and probiotics. By choosing products that respect and balance this microbiome, you're providing your scalp with the ideal environment to promote the growth of healthy, strong hair.
