Here's the surprising search term on Space NK’s site for 'hair'

You'd think the highest search terms for hair would be celebrity styles or how to thicken, add gloss, or boost growth. However, according to beauty site SpaceNK, the number one search term on their website concerning hair is; [drumroll] ‘scalp’. Not quite as sexy but as research shows – it's the basis of good hair whatever your colour or style. We talked about the benefits of a scalp detox in January – click here to read more. And the iconic brand Living Proof has just launched on the site and nationwide the new Restore Scalp Treatment, £25. Here's the lowdown on why you need it by Judy Nguyen, Living Proof Chemist…

Culture Whisper: Why the sudden interest in scalp care?
Judy Nguyen:Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp, so scalp health is an essential component to having great hair. Scalp issues can be due to a seasonal shift or something more serious (like dandruff, which is a fungal infection). Yes, the demand for scalp products has drastically increased, creating greater awareness for overall scalp health. But with this sudden availability of scalp products, consumers should be aware and educate themselves on products that address the root cause versus gimmicky ones.

CW: What do you think is the number one issue when it comes to scalp care?
JN:Your scalp is skin, so the same sort of conditions that can cause dry skin on your face or your body can contribute to a dry scalp. Dry scalp is quite literally a lack of moisture on the scalp. Those can include seasonal changes, like cold, dry air and habits like excessive washing or even dehydration (hmm probably overuse of the dry shampoo too). Harsh surfactants and high amounts of ethanol can sometimes leave your scalp feeling tight and dry.

A healthy scalp has clean, open pores with good blood flow. It's essential that the hair follicles and scalp are clean and clear, and the microbiome is in harmony with a good balance of good bacteria. A healthy scalp equals healthy hair. New discoveries in wellness have uncovered that balancing the body's microbiome is key to overall wellbeing.

It's not just about your gut—the same is true for your skin, including your scalp. Your scalp is made up of many different microorganisms. When its microbiome is out of balance, it can lead to flaking, itching and irritation.

CW: What are the essential tips on looking after your scalp and also the benefits you will be able to see?
JN:You'll want to address the symptoms as well as the root cause of a dry scalp. The Living Proof Restore Dry Scalp Treatment has two key technologies designed to give both instant and long-term relief from dry scalp flaking, itching, and irritation. This leave-in treatment uses a breakthrough microbiome balancing treatment with clinically-proven actives that work to balance your scalp's natural ecosystem. When your scalp's ecosystem (made up of "bad" and "good" microorganisms) is imbalanced, it most likely means that the population of "bad" microorganisms have outnumbered the "good" and can lead to dry scalp itching, flaking, and irritation.

The formula also contains a hyaluronic acid-based Molecular Patch that delivers instant relief and sustained hydration to a tight, dry scalp.
Try to manage the stress in your life as it can affect hormone levels and cause disruption to the scalp's microbiome, which can lead to irritation and flaking.

Diet also affects the health of the scalp, so try to include lots of protein, vitamin B, Zinc and Iron in your diet and cut down on processed foods and sugars. Hard waters can also dry out the scalp leaving it feeling irritable and prone to flaking, so it's essential to choose products that help moisturise the hair and scalp.

TRY THIS:

The Restore Dry Scalp Treatment, £25 by Living Proof gives you both instant hydration and lasting relief from dry scalp flaking, itching, and irritation. This leave-in treatment uses a breakthrough microbiome balancing treatment with clinically-proven actives that work to balance your scalp's natural ecosystem. It includes Hyaluronic Acid-based molecular patch that delivers instant relief and sustained hydration and vitamin B3 to balance your scalp's natural ecosystem.

Plus it's fast-absorbing, non-greasy and safe for colour-treated hair – so it's a breeze to use and crucially won't add too much time to your morning regime.
Click here to find out more…