The scalp produces a constant amount of sebum – greater in men, but not entirely negligible in women. Sebum, sweat and exfoliating skin cells form the so-called self-dirt that we cannot avoid to produce. In addition to that, our scalp daily collects from the environment all sort of powders, microbes, polluting substances (particulates and fine metals, highly irritating and cancer-causing). An amount of non-self dirt depending on the environment where we spend most of our time (city, workplace, polluted or unpolluted areas) adds to the self-dirt, thus increasing irritation and inflammation of the scalp.
The equilibrium of our scalp microbiota is altered by inflammation and by the aggression of other external microorganisms (such as dust mites).
This process inevitably takes place every day.
In 2007 we run a study to verify the effects of pollution on the scalp: we studied a group of 450 volunteers for a one-year period. We proved that the so-called “sensitive scalp” (characterized by redness, exfoliation, prickling or burning) exponentially grew as pollution increased. Hair loss due to inflammation increased as well.

The only possible remedy is to keep the scalp clean; for this reason, it is advisable (or, better, necessary) to wash your hair as frequently as possible: it would be perfect to wash it daily but in no case less than thrice a week.

Choosing the right shampoo or the correct product for the hygiene of the scalp is very important. In our next tip, you will find all the hints to choose the product that best fits your needs.