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How to Keep Your Scalp Happy & Healthy

When we talk about haircare, we usually jump straight to the strands – but healthy hair actually starts at the root. Yep, we’re talking about your scalp.

Think of it like this: your scalp is the soil your hair grows from. What's more, scalp is skin - if it’s dry, irritated, oily or neglected, it affects everything from your hair’s texture to its ability to grow.

That’s why scalp care is just as important as your regular shampoo-conditioner-treatment routine – and if you’ve been skipping it, now’s the time to change that.

Let’s take a look at why your scalp deserves some TLC, what might be throwing it out of whack, and how to give it the love it needs ✨

Red haired woman applying scalp treatment

Why Scalp Health Matters

Your scalp is living tissue – an extension of your skin, filled with follicles, glands, and blood vessels.

When it’s healthy, it creates the perfect environment for hair to grow strong, shiny, and balanced.

But when it’s not? You might start noticing things like:

Excess oil or product buildup
Itchiness, flakes, or irritation
Dry ends (because natural oils can’t travel down the hair shaft)
Slower hair growth or increased shedding

Basically, if you’re struggling with your hair, your scalp could be the root cause – literally.

And here in NZ, our climate doesn’t always help. Sun exposure, sea salt, chlorine, hard water and indoor heating can all mess with your scalp's natural balance, especially in summer and autumn.

So let’s break it down and talk about what might be happening up top.

Common Scalp Concerns (and What Causes Them)

Scalp issues are more common than most of us realise – and no, it’s not just about dandruff.

Your scalp can be dry, oily, flaky, sensitive, or even a mix of several things. Understanding what you're dealing with is key to choosing the right solution.

1. Dry or Flaky Scalp

This is typically caused by external stressors: sun exposure, chlorine, indoor heating, or even shampoos with harsh sulphates.

You might feel tightness, itchiness, or see dry, white flakes that sit loosely on your scalp. This isn’t dandruff – it’s dehydration.

If your scalp feels like your skin does after a windy day at the beach, it probably needs moisture, not medicated treatment.

Young woman at the beach with sun damaged hair

2. Oily or Greasy Scalp

If your hair gets greasy within 24 hours, you're likely overproducing sebum (your scalp's natural oil).

Surprisingly, this can be caused by washing too often – stripping oils too frequently can make your scalp go into overdrive to compensate.

It can also be hormonal or genetic, so gentle rebalancing is key – not harsher washing.

3. Dandruff

This is a common but often misunderstood condition.

True dandruff is caused by a microbe called Malassezia which lives naturally on the scalp. For some people, it multiplies quickly, feeding on scalp oils and leading to inflammation and the formation of sticky, yellowish flakes.

Unlike dry scalp flakes, dandruff flakes are often oily and harder to brush off. It usually requires an anti-fungal or anti-dandruff shampoo to reset the balance.

4. Itchy or Sensitive Scalp

Some people experience burning, tingling, or irritation after using certain products.

If this is you, it could be a sign of ingredient sensitivity (like fragrances or sulphates) or even an allergic reaction. Heat styling, colouring, or chemical processing can also cause scalp sensitivity over time.

If your scalp reacts to everything, look for calming, dermatologically tested formulas without unnecessary additives. Trying a sulphate-free care range might be a good place to start!

Keep reading - should you be using a sulphate-free shampoo?

5. Product Buildup or Congestion

Using lots of styling products (hello dry shampoo, mousse, serums...) without regularly detoxing your scalp can lead to congestion. This might feel like your roots are heavy or coated, and can also block healthy hair growth.

A once-weekly scalp exfoliant or clarifying shampoo can do wonders here, especially if you style often.

6. Combination Scalp

Yep, just like your face, your scalp can be oily at the roots and dry or flaky around the hairline.

This is super common in transitional seasons or with inconsistent haircare routines. Treating it takes balance: gentle cleansing and targeted hydration where needed.

How to Take Care of Your Scalp

The good news? Scalp care doesn’t have to be complicated – just intentional.

Here are some of the best ways to restore balance and keep your scalp happy and healthy:

1. Choose the Right Shampoo (for your scalp, not your ends)

A common mistake is picking a shampoo based on how your hair looks at the ends – when it should really be based on your scalp.

If your roots are oily, use a balancing or purifying shampoo. If your scalp is dry or irritated, reach for something soothing and sulphate-free.

Coloured hair? Go for a formula that protects both your scalp and your tone (we love Pureology and Matrix - they cater to both!).

2. Don’t Over-wash – Find Your Scalp’s Rhythm

Every scalp is different, but most only need washing 2–3 times per week.

If you wash too often, you could strip away the natural oils your scalp needs to stay hydrated. Try spacing out your wash days and see how your scalp responds – and use dry shampoo in between if needed.

Want to find out how often you should be washing your hair? Check out our blog for some quick insights!

Young woman washing her hair in the shower.

3. Massage Your Scalp While You Cleanse

This one’s easy, free, and genuinely effective.

Massaging your scalp boosts circulation, helps shift buildup and encourages healthy hair growth. Use your fingertips in small circular motions (or a scalp brush if you’re feeling fancy).

Bonus points if you spend 1–2 minutes on this during each wash!

4. Exfoliate Your Scalp Weekly

Just like your skin, your scalp can benefit from regular exfoliation.

A clarifying shampoo or dedicated scalp scrub will help lift away dead skin, oil, and leftover product. This is especially helpful if you use styling products often or have hard water at home.

If you’re prone to sensitivity, choose a gentle exfoliant made with botanical actives or fruit enzymes.

5. Use a Targeted Treatment

Scalp oils, serums and lotions are great tools for rebalancing or calming your skin. Apply them directly to the scalp and let them work their magic.

From anti-dandruff toners to hydrating serums and pre-wash oils, there’s a treatment for every scalp type. The trick is consistency – most treatments work best when used regularly for a few weeks. (We’ll share some of our faves in a bit!)

6. Protect Your Scalp from UV

Yep, your scalp can get sunburnt – and it hurts!

If you're out in the sun often or rocking a part-line, consider a scalp-specific UV protectant spray or wear a hat when you can. It helps prevent flaking, dryness, and inflammation.

7. Be Ingredient-Aware

If you have a sensitive or reactive scalp, check your labels.

Sulphates, alcohols, synthetic fragrance and even some essential oils can trigger irritation for some people. This is especially common if you're using lower grade supermarket versions.

Stick to gentle, fragrance-free or naturally derived options to minimise flare-ups. Professional grade products use better quality ingredients, more targeted options and are generally far more gentle on your hair and your scalp!

Don't believe us? Have a look here for insights on why salon-grade products pack more of a punch!

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner

8. Eat and Drink for Your Scalp Too

A healthy scalp isn’t just about what you put on it. Staying hydrated, eating omega-rich foods (like salmon, walnuts and flaxseeds) and getting enough zinc and vitamin E can support scalp health from the inside out.

Stick to a simple, consistent routine and listen to your scalp. If it feels tight, itchy, or greasy, that’s your sign to tweak what you’re doing.

Next up? Let’s talk products – because the right ones can seriously change your scalp game.

Our Favourite Scalp Care Products

Now that we’ve covered the what and the why, let’s get into the good stuff: products that actually work.

Whether you’re tackling flakes, excess oil, irritation, or product buildup, these are some of our most-loved formulas for getting your scalp back in balance:

For dry or flaky scalps:

Moroccanoil Dry Scalp Treatment – A lightweight, argan oil-infused pre-shampoo treatment that soothes irritation, reduces flaking, and restores moisture to a tight, dry scalp.
De Lorenzo Tricho Sensitive Shampoo & Conditioner – Ideal for sensitive scalps, this duo gently cleanses and hydrates without harsh ingredients or artificial fragrance.
Wella Invigo Clean Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo – Gently purifies oily roots and helps rebalance the scalp for a fresher, cleaner feel.

Tricho Sensitive Shampoo [200ml]

$33.00

Tricho Sensitive Conditioner [200ml]

$33.00

30% OFF

Invigo Clean Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo [250ml]

~~$38.00~~ $26.60

For oily scalps or product buildup:

Biolage Scalp Sync Purifying Scalp Concentrate – A refreshing deep cleanse with mint and antibacterial actives to reduce oil and impurities without stripping.
De Lorenzo Tricho Scalp Control Cleanser – A gentle purifying formula designed to help rebalance oil levels while calming irritation.
Tricho Scalp Balance Cleanser – Great for combination scalps needing lightweight hydration and gentle exfoliation.

25% OFF

Biolage Scalp Sync Purifying Scalp Concentrate [200ml]

~~$42.00~~ $31.50

Tricho Scalp Balance Cleanser [200ml]

$33.00

Tricho Scalp Balance Cleanser [500ml]

$68.00

For dandruff or stubborn flakes:

Biolage ScalpSync Anti-Dandruff Shampoo – Powered by pyrithione zinc, this formula tackles dandruff while cooling and calming the scalp.
Nioxin Scalp Recovery Purifying Shampoo – Designed for itchy, flaky scalps, it uses green tea extract and anti-fungal ingredients to restore comfort.
RPR Treat My Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo – Helps target flakes, redness and itch while leaving your hair soft and manageable.

25% OFF

Biolage Scalpsync Antidandruff Shampoo [400ml]

~~$44.00~~ $33.00

30% OFF

Nioxin Scalp Recovery System Purifying Shampoo [200ml]

~~$54.00~~ $37.80

30% OFF

Nioxin Scalp Recovery Purifying Shampoo [1Ltr]

~~$121.00~~ $84.70

25% OFF

RPR Treat My Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo [200ml]

~~$21.05~~ $15.79

For scalp soothing and daily support:

Biolage ScalpSync Universal Conditioner – A lightweight conditioner that gently hydrates the scalp and hair without heaviness or residue.
Tricho Scalp Balance Toner – A leave-in tonic that restores moisture, relieves tightness, and helps protect the scalp barrier.

25% OFF