COVER STORY: 5 Ways To Improve Your Scalp Bacteria
Your scalp is more than just the surface your hair grows from—it’s a living ecosystem.
When the balance of bacteria, fungi, and skin cells is off, the result can be inflammation, flaking, reduced hair quality, and slowed regrowth. But by supporting your scalp microbiome, you can create a healthier environment for follicles to thrive.
Choose a Scalp-Friendly Shampoo
Frequent cleansing—especially with high-foaming or alkaline shampoos—can disrupt the scalp’s acid mantle and strip away beneficial microbial species. Opt for shampoos that are pH-balanced to avoid disrupting the natural acidity of your scalp.
Incorporate Prebiotic-Rich Products
Prebiotics serve as food for beneficial microbes, promoting their growth and activity. Using scalp treatments that contain prebiotics can help nourish your scalp’s microbiome. For instance, The Steam Bar’s The Scalp Serum combines prebiotics with humectants to support a balanced scalp environment.
Use LED Therapy to Support Scalp Microbial Balance
Research suggests that LED light can help reduce populations of pro-inflammatory microbes while supporting wound healing, cellular repair, and immune modulation in the skin barrier. For individuals with chronic scalp irritation or conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, incorporating LED therapy into your routine may create a more stable environment for beneficial bacteria and healthier follicle function.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Your diet plays a significant role in the health of your scalp microbiome. Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides essential nutrients that support both gut and scalp health. Additionally, incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and promote a healthy scalp environment. For a complete guide on nutrtition check out Metabolic Hair.
Regular Scalp Massages
Gently massaging your scalp can increase blood circulation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. This practice not only supports hair growth but also helps in the even distribution of natural oils, which can nourish and protect the scalp’s microbiome. Try Cult Beauty’s Hair Gain Scalp Massager.
