Ahead, I spoke to board-certified dermatologist Patricia Oyetakin, MD, and trichologist Abena Palmore, who specializes in itchy scalp and natural hair, to share their best tips.
Use antidandruff shampoo and hydrating shampoo.
Nizoral has become a staple in my routine. But how exactly does it work? Dr. Oyetakin says that the shampoo’s key ingredient, ketoconazole, “inhibits common fungus and yeast microbes that can cause skin infections.”
“For seborrheic dermatitis, which is a severe form of scalp dandruff, ketoconazole is effective in treating malassezia furfur, a yeast organism that is involved in the condition,” Dr. Oyetakin says. Although Nizoral doesn’t leave my hair brittle like the shampoo prescribed to me as a kid, I can still feel a lot of the moisture stripping away, which is apparently normal. “In my experience, a lot of patients report dryness and stiffer hair texture when using Nizoral shampoo alone,” she says. “I often recommend using a hydrating shampoo and conditioner immediately afterward to reduce the risk of this happening.”
My replenishing shampoo of choice has been OurX’s Nutrient Cleanse Complex. Investing in quality hair care products that cater specifically to the needs of my hair is a must for me. There’s a visible and physical difference in both my hair and scalp when my routine is built on products with quality ingredients.
Try a gentle exfoliating tool.
I’ve also found that gently using an exfoliating tool, like the Luxe Therapy Scalp Soother or a scalp scrubber, to make sure all the buildup is lifted during the shampoo step is very helpful.
However, be mindful to not overdo things. Palmore, founder of Embrace Natural Beauty Salon, warns against being too harsh on your scalp. “Do not dig into the scalp—this could cause abrasion and tears,” she says. “Just make contact with the scalp and gently massage in a soothing manner.”
Use penetrative conditioners and minimal styling products.
When it comes to hair care and styling, less is more. I avoid excessive conditioners and stylers, sticking to one rich formula, like the OurX Intensive Conditioning Compound, or a lightweight leave-in that can also aid in styling, like the brand’s Treatment Leave-In. I usually alternate between a rinse-out and leave-in conditioner every other wash day. More pocket-friendly options that have also worked incredibly well for me are Moisture Love’s Deep Indulgence Replenishing Conditioner and Now & Forever Leave-In Conditioning Serum.
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