The skin that comprises your scalp is different from the skin on other parts of the body. The scalp is a lot more delicate and contains more hair follicles, sweat glands and sebaceous glands in comparison. It, therefore, needs special care, particularly in terms of cleansing and moisturising.
A healthy scalp is always well-hydrated. There is no itchiness or flakiness. There should be no signs of inflammation, irritation or scabs on a healthy scalp. And it should always be soft, supple and free from dandruff.
More importantly, a healthy scalp is a prerequisite for healthy hair. The scalp has often been likened to a well-fertilized, well-irrigated field that lets you grow a healthy crop of long, strong and lustrous hair. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, your scalp contains around 100,000 follicles that penetrate deep inside the scalp. Each follicle contains a single strand of hair. Your scalp also produces sebum, an oily substance that acts as a natural moisturiser.
However, the prevalent levels of atmospheric pollution, harsh weather conditions (especially in winter) and a poor skincare regimen can severely affect the health of the scalp. According to dermatologists and beauty experts, a simple way to revitalize your scalp and keep it healthy is by using cold-pressed Mustard Oil. In fact, these experts say Mustard Oil can be used as a standalone ingredient for scalp care.
Here’s the right way to use it – heat around 50 millilitres of Mustard Oil till it is warm. Use your fingertips to gently massage the warm oil on your scalp. The natural heating action of Mustard Oil will open up the pores of the scalp and cleanse any dirt blocking these pores. Such a massage also improves blood circulation in the scalp and promotes hair growth. Moreover, the oil also penetrates the follicles and strengthens the hair roots. Continue massaging for around ten minutes and then cover your head with a shower cap. After 30 minutes or so, rinse the oil out using a mild shampoo.
Try this treatment three to four times a week, and on the days that you are outside the house for an extended time. You will see (and feel) a remarkable difference in both your hair as well as your scalp.