Healthy and clean hair follicles are important for maintaining healthy hair and promoting hair growth. Without proper cleansing, buildup from styling products, oil and dead skin cells can accumulate on your scalp, causing flaking, a greasy appearance and slower hair growth. According to KidsHealth website, your hair follicles are attached to a sebaceous gland, which is responsible for producing the natural oils on your scalp. When your hair follicles become clogged or dirty, you may experience an overproduction of oil. Luckily, you can clean your hair follicles without expensive or time-intensive remedies.
Scalp Massage With Herbs
Scalp massage helps to stimulate your hair follicles and evenly distributes the natural oils of your scalp along your hair shaft. It can also help to loosen any debris and keep the hair follicles free of excess sebum. According to herbalist and Ayuverdic practitioner Todd Caldecott in his book, "Ayurveda: The Divine Science of Life," scalp massage with certain herbs can keep your hair follicles clean and remove any excess oil and grime. Herbal infusions prepared with nettle, rosemary or horsetail leaf can be used to keep the secretion of hair oils at a normal level. The infusion is gently dabbed on and massaged into the scalp using circular motions with the fingertips.
Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying shampoos help to cleanse your scalp of excess buildup, debris and oils. According to stylist Lisa Akbari in her book, "Every Woman's Guide to Beautiful Hair at Any Age," shampooing with a clarifying shampoo regularly can keep your scalp healthy and prevent the hair follicles from becoming polluted with buildup and oil. If your hair and scalp are oily, you may need to shampoo more frequently to prevent oil buildup. Clarifying shampoos should be alternated with regular shampoo, as they contain strong cleaning agents that are too harsh for regular use. People with normal to oily hair types can benefit from shampooing with a clarifying shampoo once weekly.
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Apple cider vinegar stimulates your hair follicles, helps to clean clogged pores and follicles, and prevents dandruff. According to pharmacist and researcher Earl Mindell in his book, "Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar," dandruff and flaking of the scalp are often caused by bacteria that clogs the hair follicles. Rinsing your hair with apple cider vinegar may help to kill the bacteria, leaving your scalp clean and healthy, and giving your hair extra shine. Mindell recommends pouring full-strength apple cider vinegar on your scalp, then wrapping your hair with a towel before shampooing to help clarify your scalp and keep your follicles clean. This remedy can be used on an as-needed basis until the condition of your scalp improves.
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Writer Bio
Ashley Miller is a licensed social worker, psychotherapist, certified Reiki practitioner, yoga enthusiast and aromatherapist. She has also worked as an employee assistance program counselor and a substance-abuse professional. Miller holds a Master of Social Work and has extensive training in mental health diagnosis, as well as child and adolescent psychotherapy. She also has a bachelor's degree in music.
