We cannot change the weather; we can only dress accordingly. This applies to summer as well as winter. But how does this affect our scalp?

Hooray, summer is here

There is more to summer than just beaches, ice cream and flip-flops. For years, dermatologists have been telling us to avoid too much sun and use suitable sun protection. This does not only include sprays or lotions with SPF. We can also easily protect ourselves against excessive ultraviolet rays by avoiding the midday sun. Clothing can shield us from too much sun as well.

In any case, this includes suitable sun protection headwear. It should be airy to avoid heat build-up. At the same time, it should shield as much sunlight as possible. This is the only way we can protect our sensitive scalp from the harmful effects of the sun. This does not just apply to children, adults should be protecting their scalps too.

We should also remember to always take off the sun protection headwear when we are in the shade to give our scalp a chance to cool off. Too much sweating can irritate the scalp. The same applies to excessive hair washing due to sweat. A damaged scalp is more susceptible to a build up of the yeast-like fungus malassezia furfur, which causes dandruff.

... no, even in winter, when it's snowing

Winter is here. The weather is cold. The wind blows. Inside, the heating is on; making it cosy and warm. If we must face the uncomfortable winter weather, there is only one logical decision: we put on a hat. Yes, this way, we also feel good outside.

Hold on. Does it really feel good? Even for our scalp? Your scalp actually endures a lot of stress in winter. Heating causes dry air inside. As a result, our nasal mucous membranes dry out, leading to unpleasant colds. But more importantly, our scalp suffers as well. It also dries out, which may cause it to get irritated. When we are outside, hats heat our heads and the scalp begins to sweat. Sweat then irritates the scalp even further.

Irritated skin can become more prone to dandruff because it is damaged and more susceptible to malassezia furfur.

Proper care in summer and winter

In summer and winter alike, it is important that we properly care for our scalp. A healthy scalp needs enough moisture to prevent it from drying out and being unprotected. When it comes to hair care, we should always try to keep the skin moist enough but avoid excess oil build-up caused by frequent washing.

Excessive use of hair care products irritates the skin. Some products clog the pores, causing sebum to build up on the surface of the skin. This creates the ideal breeding ground for the yeast-like fungus and for dandruff to build up.

Nizoral can be used in combination with any suitable hair care product. Thanks to ketoconazole 2%, it works against malassezia furfur. Nizoral is especially gentle on the hair and does not interfere with the nourishing properties of personal hair care products.