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Why Scalp Health is the Next Big Thing in Self-Care: Exclusive Interview with Dr. Maya

by Khadija Husain

7 Dec 2024

beauty

In today’s rapidly evolving beauty landscape, a new focus is emerging in women’s self-care routines: scalp health. Once overlooked, scalp health is now gaining attention as women prioritize long-term beauty and holistic self-care. To explore this growing trend, we sat down with Dr. Maya Shahsavari, a UK-trained Otolaryngology consultant surgeon and aesthetic doctor at Ouronyx Clinic in Dubai. Dr. Maya’s expertise in scalp and hair health, combined with her passion for empowering women, provides valuable insights into why scalp care is the latest frontier in beauty and wellness.


The Rise of Scalp Health in Self-Care


Dr. Maya explains that scalp health has become a significant focus for women due to its undeniable connection to overall hair wellness. “There’s a growing understanding that healthy hair starts at the scalp,” she says. “Women are now addressing potential hair issues at the root level, literally.” This shift in focus is part of a broader trend toward where prevention and long-term care become more important than quick fixes.


Social media has played a pivotal role in bringing scalp health to the forefront. “We’ve seen trends like hair and scalp oiling gain traction, emphasizing the importance of treating the scalp with the same care we give to our skin,” Dr. Maya notes. This trend, known as “skinification,” involves using skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and salicylic acid to nourish and rejuvenate the scalp. “Women are adopting more holistic beauty practices that treat the hair from the inside out,” she adds.


However, beyond the beauty benefits, environmental factors and lifestyle stressors have also contributed to the growing emphasis on scalp care. “Pollution, unregulated hair products, and stress-induced hair loss are all playing a role in making women more aware of the importance of scalp health,” Dr. Maya points out. “People are more educated now about the impact of stress on health, which is driving a shift toward preventative measures in both health and beauty.”


The Impact of Poor Scalp Health


Dr. Maya highlights that neglecting scalp health can have serious consequences for hair quality and growth. “Poor scalp health can lead to clogged follicles, limiting oxygen and nutrient access, which disrupts hair growth cycles,” she says. Conditions like dandruff, excess oil, and buildup can weaken hair, increase hair fall, and cause long-term damage. “Inflammation caused by scalp issues like psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis can damage hair follicles and even result in scarring, which may lead to permanent hair loss if left untreated.”


Over time, persistent scalp neglect can cause conditions like folliculitis, where the hair follicles become inflamed. “This is why it’s so important to take a preventive approach to scalp care,” Dr. Maya stresses. “Long-term damage can be avoided with the right care and attention.”

Dr. Maya Shahsavari

Common Scalp Health Issues


When asked about the most common scalp health issues among women, Dr. Maya points to androgenic hair loss as a significant concern. At Ouronyx, innovative treatments like Autologous Micrografting Technology (AMT) offer effective solutions. “We use a patient’s own hair follicles to stimulate scalp health and encourage natural hair growth,” she explains. This minimally invasive procedure involves harvesting micrografts from a healthy area of the scalp and injecting them into thinning areas, promoting hair regeneration and improving scalp health.


Dandruff, caused by a yeast-like fungus, is another widespread issue. Itchiness and flaking are common complaints, often made worse by oil buildup or dryness, Dr. Maya says. Interestingly, she notes that improper hair and scalp oiling techniques have also contributed to an increase in folliculitis, a condition that has become more prevalent due to the rise of scalp oiling trends.


The Role of Lifestyle in Scalp Health


Lifestyle factors such as diet and stress play a critical role in maintaining a healthy scalp. “A balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, D, E, and omega-3 fatty acids is essential for scalp health,” Dr. Maya advises. “These nutrients support hydration, reduce inflammation, and strengthen hair follicles, all of which contribute to healthy hair growth.”


Stress, however, can be a major disruptor. “Chronic stress can increase cortisol levels, which may lead to scalp issues like dandruff or exacerbate hair loss conditions,” she warns. Staying hydrated and paying attention to overall lifestyle habits, such as avoiding excessive heat styling and tight hairstyles, can go a long way in maintaining a healthy scalp.


Scalp-Focused Treatments and Products


As scalp-focused treatments and products gain popularity, Dr. Maya emphasizes the importance of understanding your scalp before diving into a new routine. “At Ouronyx, we offer detailed imaging and analysis of scalp health. This allows us to tailor treatments based on individual needs,” she explains. Popular treatments such as scalp exfoliation, serums, and scalp massages can all contribute to better scalp health. Dr. Maya recommends incorporating scalp scrubs to remove buildup, using serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and tea tree oil, and indulging in regular scalp massages to improve circulation and nourish hair follicles.


LED light therapy, another popular treatment, has shown promise in reducing inflammation and promoting cell turnover, making it a great option for those experiencing dandruff or hair thinning.


Choosing the Right Products for Scalp Care


When it comes to choosing products, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your scalp. “For dryness, ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera can provide much-needed hydration. For oiliness, look for salicylic acid and tea tree oil to control excess oil and reduce buildup,” she advises. Products with soothing agents like chamomile extract or zinc pyrithione can help with itchiness and sensitivity, while ingredients like rosemary oil and biotin are excellent for promoting hair growth and strengthening follicles.


Daily Habits for Long-Term Scalp Health


Incorporating a few simple daily habits can make a big difference in promoting long-term scalp health. Dr. Maya recommends gentle cleansing with sulfate-free shampoos, regular scalp massages to boost circulation, and limiting heat and product use to avoid buildup and irritation. “Staying hydrated and eating a nutrient-rich diet are also essential,” she adds. Additionally, she suggests being mindful of UV exposure and avoiding tight hairstyles that can lead to traction alopecia over time.

 



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