If there's one topic that often comes up in the salon, it's oily hair. However, it is easy to confuse oily scalp with hyperhidrosis. At first glance, the two look similar, but these two conditions serve very different functions. This article provides information to differentiate them and suggests solutions and appropriate care depending on whether you suffer from hyperhidrosis or an oily scalp.
The illustration that accompanies this article depicts a hair follicle. Note the presence of sweat glands and sebaceous glands. The sebaceous glands secrete sebum. Very useful, sebum prevents the multiplication of bacteria and the development of fungi. It also provides suppleness to the scalp and produces an oily film which acts as a protective skin barrier for the skin and hair. Sebum secretions depend on androgens, the hormones responsible for male sexual characteristics. For this reason, excess sebum does not appear until puberty. After this period, sebum secretions vary between one and two grams per day depending on sex and age.
When you suffer from excess sebum, your hair sticks. They are flat, heavy, and divide into strands. On camera, we detect an accumulation of yellowish spots on the scalp. A mild to severe itching sensation may also occur when there is a ph imbalance. In this case we must avoid scratching the scalp and practice a simple patting of the head in the places where we feel itching. Scratching risks causing an illness and then creates a vicious circle. To determine if your scalp is oily, rub it with a tissue and smell it. If the handkerchief gives off a pungent smell, the scalp is oily. Traditional Chinese medicine links the oily scalp to the gallbladder, and therefore to our diet. The glands may also secrete a little more in spring, the season of rebirth.
Oily scalp is often caused by an endocrine imbalance, too much testosterone, enlarged oil glands, dysfunction of the thyroid, adrenal glands or liver. In addition, antibiotics, anticoagulants, pollution, climatic aggressions, emotional stress and fatigue can trigger this imbalance. Added to this list is a diet too rich in sugar and fat.
Paying particular attention to this type of condition is not simply a matter of aesthetics. Excess sebum risks suffocating the bulb and increases the chances of hair loss in anyone experiencing significant hormonal changes. It can also lead to overproduction of microorganisms responsible for seborrheic dermatitis, an inflammatory disease of certain skin areas.
Here are some tips to prevent excess oil on the scalp:
- Avoid shampoos containing aggressive detergents;
- Prioritize natural products designed for oily scalps;
- Apply the conditioner to the lengths exclusively and not to the scalp;
- Eliminate all styling products such as gels, mousses, hair sprays and pomades and any other products containing alcohol;
- Wash combs, brushes and pillowcases several times a week;
- Opt for lukewarm water when washing your hair;
- Run your hands through your hair as little as possible;
- Avoid chemical colorings, as they will not solve the problem. On the contrary, the scalp will be attacked and micro-organisms will be destroyed, which risks causing an excess of sebum to activate the protection system;
- Opt for shampoos and clay masks composed of vegetable and essential oil and mineral salts. They provide trace elements to the scalp.
- Adopt healthy lifestyle habits and a balanced diet.
Hyperhidrosis
Often confused with oily scalp condition, hyperhidrosis is simply excess sweating. A natural phenomenon, sweat aims to reduce excess body heat. The brain then orders it to be secreted via the nervous system. Hyperhidrosis results in excess sweating. This condition is found in people experiencing hormonal problems such as menopause, hyperthyroidism, hypoglycemia, diabetes. Also in people who are very emotional, who consume alcohol and who have high blood pressure. Also, physical activity, spa, sauna and a high level of indoor and outdoor temperature cause so-called temporary hyperhidrosis.
To combat hyperhidrosis, I recommend a shampoo and a clay mask which provide balance, a feeling of freshness and lightness, and which purify the hair bulb by eliminating toxins and heavy metals.
Conclusion, suffering from an oily scalp or hyperhidrosis remains unpleasant. Several alternative medicines, such as naturopathy and herbalism, can help you take the right actions. Consult hairdressers who use natural products and who will know how to take care of your scalp.
Article appeared in the magazine Le Monde au Naturel