When it comes to skincare, most of us adjust our routines as the seasons shift. But what about our scalps? This often-overlooked area of skin is just as sensitive to environmental changes – and this can have a big impact on scalp health.
Understanding how your scalp changes throughout the year can help you manage the dryness, flakiness, irritation and excess oil associated with the shifting seasons. With an optimised seasonal care routine, you can keep your scalp balanced and comfortable, no matter the weather.
Understanding your scalp’s seasonal cycle
Your scalp is an extension of your skin, complete with sweat glands, sebaceous (oil) glands and a microbiome that fluctuates depending on the temperature, humidity and exposure to the elements. Each season presents its own challenges, meaning your scalp care routine should evolve according to the time of year you are in.
Consistency is key, so try to build a routine that is easy to adapt throughout the year. That might mean alternating between a clarifying shampoo in summer and a hydrating one in winter, or incorporating weekly treatments to keep the scalp balanced.
Remember, a healthy scalp supports healthy hair growth. If your scalp feels itchy, flaky or oily, or you experience redness and swelling despite regular care, you may be dealing with an underlying scalp condition that needs targeted treatment.
How to care for your scalp in winter
Cold temperatures and indoor heating strip vital moisture from your skin and hair, which can result in brittle hair and a dehydrated, tight or flaky scalp. The lack of humidity also means your scalp’s natural oils evaporate more quickly, leading to dryness and sometimes itchiness. Here are some tips to help you care for your scalp in winter:
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water and include omega-rich foods like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts in your diet.
- Switch to a mild cleanser: Opt for shampoos that don’t strip away natural oils.
- Avoid overly hot showers: Heat can exacerbate dryness, so wash your hair in lukewarm or cold water.
- Massage your scalp: Regular scalp massages stimulate circulation and encourage oil production, helping to maintain moisture balance.
How to care for your scalp in spring
Spring is a time of renewal, and your scalp can benefit from a similar “reset” each year. After months of dry indoor air and winter product buildup, your scalp may need a detox, which can be achieved with a cleansing shampoo and a weekly exfoliating scrub. Increased pollen and humidity can also trigger irritation or sensitivity in some people. Care for your scalp in spring by following these tips:
- Gently exfoliate: Use a scalp scrub or exfoliating brush once a week to remove dead skin cells and product buildup.
- Clarify and rebalance your scalp: A clarifying shampoo can help remove the excess oil and debris that may have built up over winter.
- Manage allergies: If seasonal allergies affect your scalp by causing itchiness or inflammation, try to minimize outdoor exposure on high-pollen days and rinse your hair regularly to remove allergen traces.
How to care for your scalp in summer
Summer brings sweat, sunscreen and frequent exposure to UV rays – all of which can disrupt your scalp’s delicate balance. Increased sweating and oil production can clog follicles, while UV damage may cause dryness or irritation. Here’s how to care for your scalp and hair in summer:
- Wash more frequently: Sweat and oil buildup can lead to itchiness or dandruff. Cleanse your scalp regularly, especially after sweaty workouts or days at the beach.
- Protect your scalp from the sun: A wide-brimmed hat or a UV-protective spray can help prevent your scalp from getting sunburnt.
- Avoid heavy styling products: If you need to use hair products, stick to lightweight, non-greasy formulations to prevent residue and buildup.
- Soothe irritation: If your scalp feels inflamed or sun-exposed, a cooling aloe vera or tea tree treatment can provide relief.
How to care for your scalp in autumn
As the air becomes cooler and drier, your scalp begins to adjust once again. The transition from humid to crisp weather can cause flakiness and itching. You may also shed more hair than usual, which is a completely natural process called seasonal shedding. While common, you can minimise the impact on your scalp by following these autumn scalp care strategies:
- Reintroduce moisture: Begin using richer conditioners or scalp oils to replenish hydration lost over summer.
- Strengthen the scalp barrier: Look for products containing ingredients like panthenol or ceramides to support the scalp’s protective layer.
- Be gentle during shedding season: Avoid tight hairstyles and excessive heat styling to reduce stress on hair follicles.
How to manage scalp conditions with Polytar Scalp Shampoo
If you suffer from a scalp condition like psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis or eczema, a medicated shampoo containing coal tar, such as Polytar can play a valuable role in your scalp care routine.
Polytar is indicated for the treatment of scalp disorders, including psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, eczema, pruritus and the scaling associated with these conditions. It can also help manage itchy, oily scalps and dandruff. By targeting the underlying inflammation and helping to remove excess scale, Polytar can provide relief and help maintain scalp comfort.
If you experience ongoing scalp symptoms that worsen with the weather, consider speaking to your pharmacist or GP about whether Polytar may be appropriate for you. Plus, always read the instructions on the label before using Polytar and use only as directed.
