Scalp Care Is Skin Care: A Trichologist Guide
The Scalp Ecosystem
100,000 hair follicles surrounded by sebaceous glands, blood vessels, and nerve endings. The microbiome hosts Malassezia, Staphylococcus, and Cutibacterium. Imbalances cause dandruff, folliculitis, and hair loss.
Common Conditions
Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis)
Caused by Malassezia yeast overgrowth plus excess sebum, not dry skin. Treatment: Ketoconazole 2% shampoo 2x weekly for 4 weeks, then weekly maintenance.
Scalp Buildup
Product residue, hard water minerals, dead skin cells. Weekly clarifying shampoo with chelating agents. Apple cider vinegar rinses dissolve mineral buildup.
Scalp Acne (Folliculitis)
Bacterial or fungal infection of follicles. Salicylic acid shampoo plus topical clindamycin for bacterial; ketoconazole for fungal.
Traction Alopecia
Hair loss from prolonged tension. Early stages reversible. Stop tension immediately, apply minoxidil 5%, avoid tight styles 3+ months.
Recommended Routine
Daily: Sulfate-free shampoo if oily, every other day if normal-dry. Weekly: Scalp exfoliation with salicylic acid scrub. Monthly: Professional trichoscopy.
Proven Ingredients
Ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, caffeine (stimulates follicles), niacinamide, peppermint oil (increases blood flow).
