During monsoons, we face sudden scorching heat and showers. The humidity of the air increases in this season. It can make your scalp unhealthy. Scalp looks more oily and unmanageable than before.
Under every hair, there is a sebaceous gland. It helps to create oil naturally on our scalp. But because of high humidity, oiliness increases and causes many hair and scalp-related problems.
Scalp and hair problems
Fungal and bacterial infections can get worse. Dandruff, eczema, seborrheic folliculitis, and seborrheic dermatitis occur very often.
This season is prone to make scalp itchy. The rainwater is slightly acidic. If your hair gets in contact with rainwater, the pH level of your hair is also imbalanced.
Dermatologists’ advice
Dr Shaikh Salman Salam, a consultant dermatologist and venereologist, shared with this writer the dos and don'ts during this season for your hair problems.
"In the rainy season, because of high humidity, we need to clean our scalp and hair regularly. It's good to clean with shampoo if you need to go outside the home every day. There is no harm in cleaning hair with shampoo every day."
"Rather it is good to keep the scalp and hair free from grease and dirt. Sulfate-free shampoo is safe to use. If you are not going out from home every day, then you can clean three to four times a week."
Treatment of dandruff and other scalp problems
Dandruff, eczema, seborrheic folliculitis, and seborrheic dermatitis can greatly increase during this season. Sulfate can make this condition severe and damages the hair. Hair becomes more fragile.
Ketoconazole and Salicylic acid work well for scalp diseases. Ketoconazole and Salicylic acid-based shampoos weekly for three to four days can reduce these problems. Dr Salam advised that those who want to remain dandruff and scalp disease-free can use those shampoos once or twice a week.
Hair fall and solution
If the greasiness of your scalp increases, then hair fall may occur this season. Hair falls can occur because of suffering from a disease for a long time, side effects of medicines, lack of proper nutrition, crash diets, and chemical treatment.
"Types of hair fall are acute and Chronic. Acute hair fall is overcome within a short period. Our hair is mainly composed of protein. Just take proper protein and nutritious food."
"Those suffering from fungal infection on the scalp, diabetes, and hypothyroidism should consult a doctor to know the reason for hair fall. Don't use too much warm and cold water to wash your hair. This makes hair brittle and splitting at the end," explained Dr Salman.
He also recommended trying to air dry your hair. Use blow dry when it is necessary to dry hair quickly. Make sure that you are maintaining a six-inch distance at least.
Handle your hair with much care. It will help if you use a clean comb for combing your hair. Brushes are not good for your hair. These can cause hair breakage.
A wooden comb is a good option. You can use an umbrella to keep your scalp away from sun damage.
Before using a hair dye, have a patch test beside your neck or back of your ear. Dr. Salam recommended that if no irritation occurs within 24 hours, it's safe to use on your hair.
