After work on Friday just before all of us at Kosmos went down to Sunfest in West Palm Beach I overheard a client and one of our stylists talking about general hair care and their scalp. This got me thinking as we talk about hair care routines, haircut styles and new hairdos on a daily basis, but more often than not we  forget that in all things hair-related, the scalp is where it all begins – and ends. And yet, this essential part of our looks stays hidden, and most of us don’t get to see our own scalps but in exceptional circumstances. We should never forget that everything from the color to the length and thickness as well as the type of hair we have is conditioned by the state of our scalp. The fact is, your scalp is among the one of the most abused regions of your body, and it should be paid the proper amount of attention.

Our scalp has a relatively hard time but apart from the balls of our feet, our heels and our back, it has the thickest part of your skin. The top layer of our skin, otherwise known as the  epidermis, is of average thickness but the dermis, which is the stronger layer of skin underneath, is a lot thicker. Facial skin can measure 1mm or 1/64″, but the skin on your scalp is about 2mm or 1/32″. This means that our scalp can put up with more or less anything we throw at it, be it chemicals, dyes, bleaches, sprays, gels and matter of styling products, as well as extreme heat and so on, but only as for as long as we pay it the proper amount of attention and consideration and don’t forget to protect it.

A dirty scalp can cause infection and hair loss so wash your hair regularly with mild shampoo. Air and water pollutants, toxins from the environment and styling products can get deposited at the roots of hair and block hair follicles. This can cause your follicles to deteriorate and slows down the growth of your hair. This debris can also damage the hairs cuticle, weaken it, and possibly cause it to break off.

When applying shampoo and your various conditioners use the pads of the fingers (not the nails) and massaging them into your scalp with gentle circular rubbing motion. When done correctly this is very therapeutic and aids the blood flow to your scalp. As well as being very relaxing, we have had clients fall asleep whilst having their head massaged ;0) . Don’t be aggressive when you brush wet hair or rub too vigorously with a towel either. Use your fingers to untangle wet hair and pat dry when possible.

Looking after your scalp has a direct effect on your hairs condition, so don’t abuse it , ask your stylist for the most suitable shampoo and conditioner for your hair type .