Are you looking after your scalp?

In a bid to get healthy looking hair, we may be focusing our attentions on the wrong bit. How much care do you take of your scalp?

Many experts believe the key to better hair is in the scalp, so these tips from Prevention are worth trying.

Brush your hair everyday

Gently brushing your hair [and scalp] before you hop in the shower removes dead skin cells that can clog hair follicles and inhibit new hair growth. It also stimulates circulation and brings excess oil down the hair shaft to moisturize ends. You’ll need to invest in a natural bristle brush (vegetable or boar), though; plastic bristle brushes can’t grab the oil and redistribute it through hair.

Apply essential oils to your scalp

To maximize healthy hair growth, apply circulation-stimulating rosemary essential oil, while antiseptic lavender and tree tea essential oils will help battle fungal dandruff. Simply add a few drops of the essential oil you choose to a seed or vegetable oil, like quick-absorbing jojoba oil or emollient neem oil. Massage onto your scalp before bed for 2 to 3 minutes, and wash it out during your morning shower. Natural oils absorb easily into the scalp and hair, so you don’t have to worry about ruining your pillowcase, though you can cover it with a towel if you’re concerned.

Apply a formulated lotion

Used regularly, La Biosthetique Lotion Stopil P – Hydrolotion for Improving the Scalp Flora maintains the scalp’s healthy balance, even when subject to natural fluctuations, prevents dehydration and energy loss and strengthens hair growth. For an instant boost, apply evenly to hair after shampooing, leave for one to two minutes and rinse out. For an intensive and deep conditioning, leave in for 10 to 20 minutes and rinse out. Contains sunflower extract, orange peel wax, panthenol and waterproof UV filters.