How to Maintain Scalp Health as Summer Transitions to Fall
As the seasons change, so does your scalp's health—often in unexpected ways. The shift from summer to fall brings cooler temperatures, less humidity, and the start of indoor heating, which can leave your scalp feeling dry, flaky, and irritated. But with a few simple adjustments, you can keep your scalp happy and healthy all season long. Here’s how:

1. Moisturize
Switch to hydrating shampoos and conditioners: As the air cools, it's crucial to use more nourishing products to prevent dryness. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, or essential oils. We recommend Mr. Smith's Hydrating and Balancing lines, Amika's Hydro Rush, or ILES Formula's luxury hair care range.
Try scalp oils or serums: Lightweight oils like jojoba or tea tree oil help balance moisture and soothe irritation. We love Surface Hair’s Scalp Elixir—it’s perfect for boosting hydration and circulation through gentle massage.
2. Exfoliate Gently
Use a scalp scrub once a week: Dry skin builds up in the fall, sometimes leading to “fall dandruff.” A weekly exfoliation with a scalp scrub will remove dead skin and product buildup, promoting circulation. For the ultimate luxury, try our ILES Formula Hair and Body Scrub paired with their Hard Water Shampoo and Mask for a refreshing scalp reset.
3. Adjust Your Wash Frequency
Don’t over-wash: Frequent washing strips natural oils, leading to more dryness. Reduce how often you wash your hair in cooler months to allow your scalp's natural oils to do their job. If oily hair is a concern, try Amika's Perk Up or Mr. Smith's Dry Shampoo—just apply, let it sit, then brush from scalp to ends.

Stick to lukewarm water: As tempting as a hot shower is, it can dry out your scalp and skin. Use lukewarm water to maintain moisture, and consider adding oils to your skincare routine to lock in hydration.
4. Combat Flaking
Not all flakes are dandruff: In many cases, flaking is caused by dry skin not properly shedding. Massage your scalp with oils or scrubs to help remove dead skin, and brush thoroughly to clear flakes from your hair. If you have coarse or dry hair, co-washing (using conditioner instead of shampoo) can help maintain scalp moisture.
5. Protect Your Scalp from the Elements
Wear hats or scarves outdoors: Cooler, windy weather can contribute to a dry, inflamed scalp. Protect your hair and scalp by wearing a hat, preferably one lined with satin or silk to prevent pulling or snagging.
6. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Hydrate from the inside out: Drinking plenty of water and eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) and vitamins A, C, and E will help keep your scalp and skin healthy. As your mom always said, don’t forget your vitamins!
7. Control Indoor Humidity
Use a humidifier: Indoor heating tends to dry out the air, which can have a negative impact on your scalp and hair. Running a humidifier adds moisture back into the air, which not only helps your scalp but also improves curl consistency and enhances oil absorption when you use scalp treatments.
8. Watch for Sensitivity
Stay ahead of allergens: As the seasons change, you may find yourself more sensitive to allergens like dust or pet dander, which can aggravate your scalp. If you experience irritation, opt for hypoallergenic products and be sure to change your pillowcases regularly—especially if they’re satin!

By making these small tweaks to your routine and paying close attention to changes in your scalp, you can easily avoid or treat the dryness, irritation, and flaking that comes with the shift from summer to fall.
Let's greet the season with healthy, nourished hair and scalp care!
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